State honors longstanding LaPorte County farms with Hoosier Homestead awards

Posted by: Kendall Macri, Matthew Gocken  | Friday, August 18, 2023

STATEHOUSE (Aug. 18, 2023) – LaPorte County farms owned and operated by the same family for at least 100 years were recently honored with Hoosier Homestead awards, according to area legislators.

"Agriculture plays a significant role in Indiana, contributing an estimated $35.1 billion to our state's economy," said State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores). "Family farms like these are dedicated to their role in this contribution, and I commend these families on their generations of hard work and success."

Farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100, 150 and 200 years can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial Hoosier Homestead awards.

"Farming is deeply rooted and a part of so many lives in Indiana," said State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty). "I'm thankful for these families, who over generations, continue to pass down agricultural knowledge and accomplishments."

Located in LaPorte County, these farms were presented Hoosier Homestead awards:

  • The Fischer Farm, in operation since 1923, received the centennial award;
  • The Kovas Farm, in operation since 1920, received the centennial award; and
  • The Mrozinski Farm, in operation since 1881, received the centennial award.  

"The agriculture industry is key to the success of our communities and state, providing jobs to Hoosiers and spurring our economy," said State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie). "These longstanding farming families, through their dedication, hard work and tenacity, continue to face and overcome challenges. I congratulate these Hoosier homesteaders for withstanding the test of time."

These farm families were among 103 awardees recently recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to agriculture.

Hoosier Homestead award ceremonies are conducted yearly in the spring and summer to commemorate farm families for their legacies and contributions to Indiana's agriculture industry. Since the program started in 1976, the state has honored more than 6,000 farms with this designation.

For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program and to nominate a farm, visit in.gov/isda. Nominations for the March 2024 ceremony are due by Nov. 1.

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State Sen. Mike Bohacek (R-Michiana Shores) represents Senate District 8,
which includes Starke County and portions of La Porte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo. 

State Rep. Jim Pressel (R-Rolling Prairie) represents District 20,
which includes portions of LaPorte and Starke counties.
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State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-North Liberty) represents House District 7,
which includes portions of LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties.
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here to download a high-resolution photo.