The Texas Department of Agriculture today announced that the application deadline for this year's Family Land Heritage Program has been extended.  The deadline is now set for June 1. The Family Land Heritage Program recognizes family farms and ranches that have been in continuous agricultural production by the same family for at least 100 years.

“Through generations of hard work, perseverance and love of the land, these families have operated their farms and ranches for 100 years or more, making Texas a powerhouse of agricultural productivity,” Ag Commissioner Todd Staples said (pictured). “This commitment to the land is the foundation on which Texas agriculture is built, and thanks to these families and their ancestors, the Lone Star State today stands as a recognized producer of the finest food and fiber in the world.”

Families approved for the program will be recognized at this year's Family Land Heritage ceremony at the state capitol.

According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, more than 4,500 properties have been recognized across the state.

Applications for the 2012 Family Land Heritage recognition are available for download at www.TexasAgriculture.gov by clicking Family Land Heritage under the I Need To… section.

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