It’s been over 100 years of operations for the Praeker Family Farm. Family members gathered this week as they were officially presented with a 10 by 14-inch bronze plaque from Chestermere-Strathmore MLA Leela Sharon Aheer after being recognized with an Alberta Century Family Farm and Ranch Award.

Herman Praeler explained, “I'm very honoured to receive the award. My grandfather started the farm back in 1918. My grandpa came up from Iowa. They had a vegetable farm actually and greenhouses in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and he came up in a boxcar.”

“He saw land advertised up here. Back then, it was called CPR land and it was irrigated,” explained Herman.

MLA Aheer presented the family with a plaque. “We're very honoured to have her come out and deliver it,” said Herman.

The Century Family Farm and Ranch Award is presented to families who have continuously owned and operated the same land for 100 years or more. Winners also receive a special commemorative certificate of recognition from the Premier and Minister of Agriculture and Forestry.