History

The decoration was instituted on July 7, 1883, based on the proposition of the then Minister of Agriculture Jules Méline.

The Order was awarded for special distinction in services to agriculture.

The Order of Agricultural Merit has 3 grades:
- Knight: be at least thirty years of age with fifteen years of service/work
- Officer: at least five years as a Member of the order;
- Commander: at least five years as an Officer of the order.

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