Conservation Loans

Here is a recent release from USDA regarding low interest loans available for implementing conservation practices on the farm. This is just one of the many, many Farm Bill programs available to landowners for this type of work. In addition to this loan announcement, others offer incentives and cost-share opportunities to control erosion, minimize nutrient and sediment runoff, and generally give the farmers tools to enhance environmental stewardship and sustain productivity.

Indianapolis, September 13, 2010 - Julia A. Wickard, Executive Director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency in Indiana announced the launch of a Conservation Loan (CL) program that will provide farm owners and farm-related business operators access to credit to implement conservation techniques that will conserve natural resources.

“This will provide farmers, who want to implement conservation measures on their lands, a chance to do so by providing assistance with up-front costs,” said Wickard. “In return, these producers will help reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and promote sustainable agricultural practices.”

Direct CLs can be obtained through local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices with loan limits up to $300,000. Guaranteed CLs up to $1,112,000 are available from lenders working with FSA.

CL funds can be used to implement conservation practices approved by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), such as the installation of conservation structures; establishment of forest cover; installation of water conservation measures; establishment or improvement of permanent pastures; implementation of manure management; and the adaptation of other emerging or existing conservation practices, techniques or technologies.

For more information on the Conservation Loan program, contact a local FSA office or visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov.