Lawmakers React To Local Farms Receiving Hoosier Homestead Awards

Longstanding farms in Franklin Co. recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more.

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(INDIANAPOLIS) - Longstanding farms in Decatur and Franklin counties recently received Hoosier Homestead awards for being in operation for 100 years or more, according to area lawmakers.

"As a farm owner and chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, the awarding of Hoosier Homestead Awards is something I look forward to each year," Leising said. "Farming is often a thankless job, with many not fully understanding how hard it is to work the land and raise livestock. My thanks to the families represented for their sacrifice and dedication to agriculture in Indiana."

These local farms were presented Hoosier Homestead Awards:

• The Brier Farm, in operation since 1906, received the centennial award;
• The Carroll Farm, in operation since 1871, received the sesquicentennial award;
• The Knecht Farm, in operation since 1846, received centennial and sesquicentennial awards;
• The McNally Farm, in operation since 1918, received the centennial award;
• The Schuck/Knecht Farm, in operation since 1879, received the centennial award; and
• The Schuck/Knecht Farm, in operation since 1902, received the centennial award.

"Operating a farm for over a century takes a great deal of hard work, determination and perseverance," said State Rep. Randy Lyness (R-West Harrison). "This award is a great achievement, and I want to thank all of these farms for their continued contributions to our state."

These farming families were among 73 recognized at the Indiana State Fair for their commitment to Indiana agriculture.

"Indiana is the eighth-largest agricultural exporter in the nation, contributing more than $31.2 billion to our state's economy each year," Raatz said. "I am honored to represent the many hardworking Hoosiers who have dedicated generations of effort to farming in our state, and I applaud the farms represented from Senate District 27 who have earned this historic achievement."

The Hoosier Homestead Award Program recognizes farms owned and maintained by the same family for 100 years or more. Families can qualify for centennial, sesquicentennial or bicentennial awards.

"Agriculture is a cornerstone in our state's flourishing economy," said State Rep. Cindy Ziemke (R-Batesville). "These Hoosier farmers deserve to be celebrated for reaching an amazing milestone, and I'm looking forward to seeing their roles in the industry for years to come."

Each year, two awards ceremonies are held in the spring and summer commemorating the achievements of farm families across the state. For more information on the Hoosier Homestead Award Program, visit in.gov/isda.

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