STATEHOUSE (Aug. 19, 2022) – Longstanding Starke County family farms recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more, according to local lawmakers.
The Bortell Farm, in operation since 1919, and the Siedentop Farm, in operation since 1922, both received Hoosier Homestead Centennial awards.
"Maintaining a family farm is no easy task, and these families are beating the odds and have done so for over a century," said State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie). "This is an incredible accomplishment, and I wish them continued success for years to come."
The Bortell Farm and the Siedentop Farm were among more than 100 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.
"As the tenth-largest farming state in the nation, it is important that Hoosier farmers maintain their operations," said State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores). "I am pleased that our local community has families remaining dedicated to their farms for so many years, and I hope to see them continue to grow in the future."
Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.
"Owning and maintaining a farm for over 100 years is hard work and requires tremendous dedication," said State Rep. Doug Gutwein (R-Francesville), member of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. "These farmers continue to pass down their traditions and serve our communities, and I congratulate them on their longevity."
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 as Hoosier Homesteads.
"Owning and operating a farm for over 100 years is no small feat," said State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso). "The amount of time and effort that goes into maintaining a farm is incredible, and I am grateful to have farms like the Bortell and Siedentop Farms in our community."
For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit in.gov/isda.
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State Rep. Douglas Gutwein (R-Francesville) represents House District 16, which
includes all of Pulaski County and portions of Fulton, Jasper, Newton and Starke counties.
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State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents House District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
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State Sen. Mike Bohacek represents Senate District 8,
which includes portions of LaPorte, Starke and St. Joseph counties.
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State Sen. Ed Charbonneau (R-Valparaiso) represents Senate District 5,
which includes all of Pulaski County and portions of Jasper, LaPorte, Porter and Starke counties.
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