Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples announced applications for this year's Family Land Heritage Program will be accepted until Dec. 15. The program recognizes farms and ranches that have been in continuous agricultural production by the same family for 100 years or more.

Applications will be accepted for farms or ranches established in 1909 or earlier, and still owned and operated by the descendants of the founder, either through blood, marriage or adoption. The land also must fit the following definition of a farm: 10 acres or more with agricultural sales of $50 or more a year; or if fewer than 10 acres, sales of at least $250 a year.

Owners must reside in Texas and actively manage the everyday operation of the farm or ranch. If all the land has ever been rented or leased to someone outside of the family, it will not qualify. If only a portion was leased, and as many as 10 acres were retained in the family for agricultural production with sales of at least $50 annually, the property will still qualify. There is no cost to apply for recognition.

For an application or information, contact Lance Williams at (512) 463-3285, P.O. Box 12847, Austin, TX 78711 or download an application at www.TexasAgriculture.gov under the Family Land Heritage link.