South Dakota Celebrates Century Farms and Ranches at 2023 State Fair
South Dakota Farm Bureau (SDFB) and the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) recently honored over 40 farms and ranches that have been in the same family for 100 years or more at the 2023 South Dakota State Fair. The celebration took place in Huron and was attended by SDFB President Scott VanderWal, Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden, and Sec. of Agriculture and Natural Resources Hunter Roberts.
Families were recognized for their remarkable feat of maintaining ownership of their farms and ranches for several generations. These longstanding establishments have played an integral role in South Dakota’s agricultural heritage and have stood the test of time.
The recipients of this prestigious recognition were acknowledged based on the duration of family ownership, with farms and ranches that have been in the same family for 100, 125, and 150 years being honored. The Whisenant Karla R. Irrevocable Trust located in Hutchinson County was among the celebrated farms at the event.
Farmers and ranchers interested in joining the Century Farm and Ranch program have until August 1, 2023, to submit their applications for consideration at next year’s South Dakota State Fair. The program, a collaboration between SDFB and DANR, aims to recognize and celebrate the longstanding family-owned establishments that have contributed to South Dakota’s rich agricultural history.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must retain continuous ownership of a minimum of 80 acres of original farmland for at least a century. Families with ownership spanning 125 or 150 years can apply for recognition as a Quasquicentennial or a Sesquicentennial farm or ranch. Documentation of the original date of purchase is required when submitting the application.
Application forms for the Century Farm and Ranch program can be accessed online at sdfbf.org by clicking on Get Involved and then Century Farms. Alternatively, interested parties can contact SDFB directly at 605.353.8052 to request a form.
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the South Dakota Farm Bureau will continue their tradition of honoring longstanding family farms and ranches through the Century Farm and Ranch program. This initiative acknowledges the dedication and commitment of farming families who have managed to preserve their agricultural heritage throughout the generations.
The deadline for submitting applications is Tuesday, August 1, 2023. This provides ample time for interested parties to gather the necessary information and documentation required for consideration.
The recognition of Century Farms and Ranches is a significant event during the South Dakota State Fair. This year’s celebration took place on Thursday, August 31, at 10 a.m. on the South Dakota Farm Bureau Dakotaland Stage. The South Dakota State Fair itself ran from August 31 to September 4, with a preview night on August 30 by Channel Seeds.
For more information about the South Dakota State Fair, individuals can contact the Fair office at 800-529-0900 or visit their website at www.sdstatefair.com. They can also follow the fair on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates and news.
South Dakota’s Century Farm and Ranch program acknowledges the resilience and dedication of farming families who have preserved their agricultural legacy for generations. As the state continues to evolve, these longstanding establishments serve as a testament to the rich history and enduring spirit of South Dakota’s farming community.
