Honoring Alabama’s Agricultural Legacy
The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is now accepting applications for its annual Century and Heritage Farm Program and the Bicentennial Farm Program. These long-standing initiatives were developed to recognize and celebrate family-owned farms that have made a lasting impact on Alabama’s agricultural history.
Southeast AgNet’s Dale Sandlin reports:
According to ADAI, these programs highlight the cultural and historical importance of generational farms that continue to contribute to the state’s economy and way of life. Families who have continuously operated their farms for at least a century—or even two—can now apply to be honored for their legacy.
Century Farm Program Criteria
To qualify for the Century Farm designation, farms must meet the following criteria:
- The farm must have been continuously owned by the same family for at least 100 years.
- It must include a minimum of 40 acres.
- The farm must still be engaged in agricultural activity.
- The property must be owned by the applicant or nominee.
This program aims to recognize farms that have stood the test of time and continue to play an active role in Alabama’s agricultural landscape.
Heritage Farm Program Criteria
The Heritage Farm designation has a similar historical emphasis but also places value on architectural and cultural elements. Requirements include:
- A minimum of 100 years of continuous family operation.
- Possession of historical and agricultural significance.
- At least one structure that is 40 years old or older.
- A minimum of 40 acres.
- Ownership and operation by an Alabama resident.
These criteria aim to capture not just the longevity but also the tangible history present on the farm.
Bicentennial Farm Program Criteria
The Bicentennial Farm Program, the rarest and most prestigious of the three, is designed for farms that have remained in the same family for 200 years or more. Additional requirements include:
- The farm must be at least 40 acres in size.
- It must be actively engaged in agriculture.
- It must be owned by an Alabama resident.
To date, only 20 farms have received this unique designation, highlighting the rarity and historical importance of these properties.
Program Legacy and Impact
Since its inception, the Century and Heritage Farm Program has recognized over 700 family farms across Alabama. These designations help preserve the stories, heritage, and contributions of multigenerational farming families who have been foundational to Alabama’s agricultural development.
Application Information
Applications for all programs are due by Friday, August 29, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Amy Belcher at the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries:
- Phone: 334-240-7126
- Email: amy.belcher@agi.alabama.gov
- Website: Visit the ADAI website for more information and application materials.