Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs reminded families that the deadline for submitting an application for the 2005 Family Land Heritage Program is quickly approaching.  The program recognizes farms and ranches that have been in continuous agriculture production by the same family for 100 years or more. Applications are also being taken for farms and ranches that have reached the 150-and 200-year milestones.

Families who have their application submitted and approved by Sept. 15, will be able to order their historic farm or ranch gate signs and bronze markers and receive them prior to the holidays. Applications submitted by the Nov. 15 deadline will not be guaranteed delivery of gate signs or bronze markers until after Jan. 3, 2006.   

“This program tells the living history of the pioneers who worked the land which provided food, clothing and shelter,” Combs said.  “And the 2005 honorees will continue to strengthen Texas agriculture through their commitment to hard work and their love of the land.”

There is no cost to apply for the recognition, and no purchases are required if the farm or ranch is accepted into the program. Acceptance into the Family Land Heritage Program does not put any restrictions on the land nor does it open it for the public. 

Farms and ranches that qualify will be honored during a ceremony in Austin on March 17, 2006. The history of the farm or ranch will be chronicled in the 2005 Family Land Heritage Registry. 

Since the Family Land Heritage Program began in 1974, more than 4,020 farms and ranches in 226 Texas counties have been honored.

Program applications and eligibility requirements are available through TDA, county judges and on TDA’s Web site at www.agr.state.tx.us.  For more information, contact Family Land Heritage Coordinator Melissa Blair, Texas Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 12847, Austin, Texas 78711 or (512) 463-2631.