News : Johnson Family Recognized for 150 years of Farming Ownership

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship recognized several Benton County family farms at the Iowa State Fair. A total of 439 Century and Heritage Farm Families were honored at the event. The 2024 Century Farms and Heritage Farms honored families that held possession of their land for a minimum of 100 and 150 years respectively were recognized at the Iowa State Fair.Benton County families who have been recognized for their Century Farm were:--Patricia Albers, H. Elliot Albers w/ life estate to Marjorie Klein Albers--Doris Schoelerman Emehiser & Janice Schoelerman Wichman--Doug Silhanek--Darwin L. & Linda D. Vogt--James & Gloria Zieser--Linn County recipients Bill and Verna BolandRecipients of the Benton County Heritage Farms:--Donald Johnson, including members of the Johnson Family Farm Trust
Congratulations!
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President Brent Johnson were on hand to recognize the Iowa farm families with Century or Heritage Farm designations at the 2024 Iowa State Fair. This year, 277 Century Farms and 162 Heritage Farms were recognized during ceremonies in the historic livestock pavilion on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. To date, more than 21,000 Century Farms and 2,000 Heritage Farms have been recognized throughout Iowa. The Century Farm program began in 1976 as part of the Nation's Bicentennial Celebration. The Heritage Farm program began in 2006.

"The families that own and steward Century and Heritage Farms play a crucial role in maintaining Iowa's rural tradition, contributing to our state's identity, and sustaining our agricultural economy. Year after year and decade after decade, through hard-won successes and by overcoming obstacles, these innovative families embody remarkable strength, resilience, and grit," said Secretary Naig. "The opportunity to celebrate each family's legacy, hear their inspiring stories and personally congratulate each family makes this unique event my favorite of the entire year."

The recognition is made possible through a partnership between the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation.

"Being recognized as an Iowa Century or Heritage Farm is a testament to the work ethic and perseverance required to reach that milestone," said Brent Johnson, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President. "It's a privilege to honor these hardworking farm families and celebrate their family farm legacies and the positive impact made on our state."

About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.