STATEHOUSE (March 28, 2023) – Area legislators are recognizing the latest local recipients of the Hoosier Homestead Award, which recognizes farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more.
Represented by State Sen. Scott Alexander (R-Muncie), State Rep. J.D. Prescott (R-Union City) and State Rep. Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown), the Bowen, Taylor, Cowen farm in Randolph County and the Smith farm in Delaware County each received a Centennial Award.
The Hoosier Homestead Award Program honors families who have made significant contributions to Indiana agriculture. Instituted in 1976, the program recognizes the impact these family farms have made on the economic, cultural and social advancements of Indiana. In the past 47 years, more than 5,800 farms have received the honor.
"It is important we appreciate and recognize our farmers and all they do for our state and communities," Alexander said. "I congratulate the Bowen, Taylor, Cowen and the Smith farms for such an achievement in the agriculture industry, and I look forward to seeing the work they do in the future."
"Farming is not only a way to make a living, but it is also a way of life for many Hoosiers," Prescott said. "These local families contribute greatly to our state's economic success, and we are fortunate that they planted roots in our area."
"Family farms have always played a major role in the history of our state," Rowray said. "I have a great deal of respect for those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring Indiana remains an agricultural powerhouse."
To be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years and consist of more than 20 acres or produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year. The award distinctions are Centennial, Sesquicentennial and Bicentennial – for 100, 150 and 200 years, respectively.
To learn more about the program or to apply for a Hoosier Homestead Award, visit www.in.gov/isda/2337.htm. Photos of the event can be found here.
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