USDA announces loan conservation program

INDIANAPOLIS -- Julia A. Wickard, the Executive Director of the United States Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency in Indiana announced the launch of a Conservation Loan 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," Wickard said. "In return, these producers will help reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and promote sustainable agricultural practices."

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

Conservation Loan funds can be used to implement conservation practices approved by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, 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