The state three farms in Dubois County for their long-term dedication and agricultural heritage on Friday.
Annually, the state presents farming families with the Hoosier Homestead Award for maintaining farms for more than 100 consecutive years. Based on the number of years, farms were eligible to receive the Centennial Award for 100 years of ownership, the Sesquicentennial Award for 150 years of ownership and the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of ownership.
In Dubois County, three family farms were recognized: Balsmeyer Family Farm was founded in 1853 and received a centennial and sesquicentennial recognition; Egler farm was founded in 1841 and received centennial and sesquicentennial recognition; and Leo C. Welp’s farm was founded in 1916 and was recognized as for its 100 years of operation.
“Agriculture contributes $31 billion to our state’s economy, largely due to the hard work, dedication, and innovation of Indiana’s farming families,” said Lt. Governor Susan Crouch. “I congratulate each family on earning the Hoosier Homestead Award and thank them for their commitment to continuing Indiana’s legacy as an agricultural leader.”
Since the program’s inception in 1976, more than 5,000 families have received the Hoosier Homestead Award.
“Generation after generation of Indiana’s farming families have dedicated their lives to feeding their neighbors, the state and the world,” Director McKinney said. “They have contributed so much to our state’s legacy, both economically and socially, and are the engine that drives our industry forward. It was an honor to recognize all of these great families at the Statehouse.”
Two awards ceremonies are held each year, in spring and summer, to commemorate the achievements of farmers across the state. For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit www.in.gov/isda/2337.htm.