(Indianapolis, Ind.) – Several local family farms are being recognized for their longevity in a time when more farms are being turned into subdivisions and strip malls.

The Hoosier Homestead Award is bestowed upon Indiana farms owned by the same family for more than 100 consecutive years. To qualify, the farms must also consist of 20 acres or more or produce at least $1,000 worth of agricultural products per year.

The following local farms are among 34 across the state receiving the award this week:

• Meyer in Dearborn County (1901)

• Gehring in Franklin County (1859)

• Giesting in Franklin County (1881)

• Kerr in Franklin County (1903)

• Dennis in Ohio County (1868)

• Hosmer in Ripley County (1910)

• Archer in Switzerland County (1865)

Indiana Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman and Indiana Agriculture Director Joe Kelsay will present the families with the Hoosier Homestead Award on Wednesday at the Indiana State Fair.

Since the Hoosier Homestead Award was introduced 30 years ago more than 4,500 farms have been awarded.