The Hoosier Farmer

Historic farms sought for rural preservation award

Indiana Landmarks and Indiana Farm Bureau are seeking nominations for the 2026 John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation. The deadline to apply is April 30. The award recognizes the preservation and ongoing agricultural use of historic farms and farm buildings in Indiana. Owners of more than 30 historic farms across the state have been honored with the award since it was established in 1992. Anyone may submit a nomination, including the farm’s owners.

The nomination involves:

• A brief history of the farm and description of its significant historic structures and features, such as the farmhouse, barns, agricultural outbuildings, and landscape elements.
• A description of how the farm’s historic agricultural structures continue to be used in day-to-day farming operations, and how they have been preserved or adapted.
• High-res digital photographs of the farm and its preserved historic features. Historic images are also welcome.    

Learn more or apply at indianalandmarks.org/john-arnold-award-rural-preservation.

Ag Education and Promotion Development Grant

The Indiana Farm Bureau Ag Education and Promotion Development Grant provides financial assistance to county Farm Bureaus, members and educators for a new program or activity or to attend an event that would enhance the promotion of agriculture and education. Winning applications will receive a grant up to $250. The deadline to apply is April 15. A second round of grants will be awarded in the fall. For more information or to apply, visit app.smarterselect.com/programs/90132-Indiana-Farm-Bureau.

Regional Ag in the Classroom Workshops

Indiana Farm Bureau is hosting two new mini workshops geared toward members interested in Ag in the Classroom (AITC). The workshops include AITC training for new volunteers, AITC basics for current and new volunteers and time to discuss new lesson ideas and resources. Workshops will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 7 at the White County Farm Bureau office located at 316 N. Main St. in Monticello; and April 23 at the Jennings County Public Library located at 2375 IN-3 in North Vernon. For more information or to register for the event, visit infb.org/events.

Contact Editor

Robert Herrington

(317) 692-7871

RHerrington@infb.org