(Indianapolis, IN) - A farm in Starke County in the same family for over a century is the latest winner of the Hoosier Homestead Award.

 

The Charles E. Troike Family farm received a Centennial Award.

 

The award honors families who have made significant contributions to Indiana agriculture.

 

Instituted in 1976, the program has recognized more than 6,000 family farms that have impacted Indiana's economic, cultural and social advancement.

 

"Hardworking families like the Troikes are the backbone of Indiana's economy," said State Senator Mike Bohacek of Michiana Shores. "These families pass down an agricultural legacy for generations supporting Indiana's role as one of the top agricultural producers in America," he said.

 

"It brings me great joy to honor families that continue to instill the values in the next generation that keep these farms in operation," said State Representative Jim Pressel of Rolling Prairie. 

 

To be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for at least 100 consecutive years and consist of more than 20 acres or produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year.

 

To learn more about the program or to apply for a Hoosier Homestead Award, visit www.in.gov/isda.