STATEHOUSE (Aug. 18, 2022) – Longstanding local farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more, according to local lawmakers.
"As a retired farmer, I know it's not easy to make a living in agriculture," said State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne), member of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. "These family farms likely fought through exceedingly tough times to reach this milestone. It's a remarkable achievement."
Located in Allen County, these farms were presented Hoosier Homestead awards:
"Multi-generational farms aren't nearly as abundant nowadays, but these farm families buck that trend," said State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City). "Indiana is an agricultural powerhouse thanks to their dedication to farming, hard work and perseverance."
These farm families were among more than 100 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.
"These families embody what it means to endure the test of time," said State Sen. Justin Busch (R-Fort Wayne). "Running a successful operation for decades is impressive, but doing it for more than a century is something that truly needs to be celebrated and acknowledged. I am proud to serve these Hoosier families."
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
"I am always happy to learn more farms in our district are awarded the Hoosier Homestead awards because it shows the true dedication of folks from our area," said State Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn). "These awards are a celebration of the agricultural heritage in Indiana, and I congratulate these families for their success over the years."
Each year, two awards ceremonies are held in the spring and summer commemorating the achievements of farm families across the state. Since its inception in 1976, more than 5,800 farms received the designation of Hoosier Homestead.
"Through the years, Hoosier farms have elevated Indiana as a national leader in agriculture," said State Sen. Andy Zay (R-Huntington). "It is families like these who have been consistent producers for our state and nation, and I am thankful to represent them."
For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit in.gov/isda.
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State Rep. David Abbott (R-Rome City) represents House District 82, which includes
all of Noble County and portions of Allen, Elkhart, LaGrange and Whitley counties.
Click here for a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne) represents House
District 85, which includes a portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Sen. Justin Busch (R-Fort Wayne) represents Senate District 16,
which includes portions of Allen and Whitley counties.
Click here for a high-resolution photo of Sen. Busch.
State Sen. Dennis Kruse (R-Auburn) represents Senate District 14,
which includes portions of Allen and DeKalb counties.
Click here for a high-resolution photo of Kruse.
State Sen. Andy Zay (R-Huntington) represents Senate District 17,
which includes Wabash County and portions of Grant, Huntington and Whitley counties.
Click here for a high-resolution photo of Zay.
