New Initiative Recognizes Farms with Centuries of Continuous Operation The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture signed a memorandum of understanding establishing the American Farm Legacy 250 Program, a national initiative designed to recognize farm families with deep roots in American agriculture. The program will identify farms with 250 years of continuous operation, with the first cohort receiving acknowledgement at the Great American State Fair. It will also recognize other qualifying multigenerational farms through participating state agriculture departments. "America's farmers and ranchers work tirelessly to feed, clothe and fuel their communities and the world," NASDA CEO Ted McKinney said. "This partnership between USDA and NASDA recognizes families who have stewarded their land across generations while inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders. State departments of agriculture are uniquely positioned to help tell these stories and ensure this legacy endures." The initiative builds on existing state Century Farm, Heritage Farm, and Legacy Farm programs. Under the agreement, USDA will oversee program development while NASDA serves as the primary liaison between federal officials and state departments of agriculture, coordinating participation and integrating the national effort into existing state recognition frameworks. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized the historical significance of the program. "Before there was a United States of America, there were American farm families working this land, answering the call to defend liberty and laying the foundation for the strongest, most abundant nation the world has ever known," she said. "As we approach America's 250th birthday, it is only fitting that we honor the families whose grit, sacrifice and stewardship have fed our nation, strengthened our communities and preserved our agricultural heritage across generations." Both organizations will jointly develop recognition materials, coordinate outreach efforts, and highlight participating farms and ranches across the country. The memorandum of understanding remains in effect through December 31, 2026.
Why It Matters
For agricultural operators and state farm bureaus, this program provides a formal recognition pathway for multigenerational farming families while potentially strengthening ties between state regulators and the farms they serve—an important alignment as the agriculture sector faces questions about succession planning and next-generation farmer recruitment.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
