Texas farmers and ranchers who have kept their land in continuous agricultural production for at least 100 years can apply to the Family Land Heritage  program.

The program, which is administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), has been celebrating the families who pass down their proud Texas legacy from generation to generation since 1974.

“We honor these families for their dedication to Texas agriculture. They are the brightest lights in the agricultural legacy of the Lone Star State,” Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said.

To be eligible for the recognition, farms and ranches must be owned and operated by the descendants of the founder either through blood, marriage or adoption. You must be able to trace ownership from the founder to the present generation.

The land must also fit the old U.S. Census definition of a farm. At least 10 acres of the land must have been in continuous agricultural production for the past 100 years or more with agricultural sales of $50 or more a year.

The owners must be actively managing the everyday operation of the property.

Applications for recognition in the 2025 Family Land Heritage ceremony are due Friday, May 31.

Click here to apply.

Visit TDA’s Family Land Heritage webpage for more information and view frequently asked questions regarding the program.