Hello again!
The Farm Service Agency makes loan funds available each year to help members of underserved groups buy and operate family-sized farms and ranches.
FSA’s loan program for socially disadvantaged farmers targets minority groups whose members have been subjected to racial, ethnic or gender prejudice because of their identity as members of the group, without regard to their individual qualities.
Examples
Some underserved groups include women, American Indians, Alaskan Natives, Hispanics, African Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders.
The purpose of the SDA loan program is twofold: first, to discover and remove barriers that prevent full participation of underserved persons in FSA’s farm loan programs; and second, to provide information and assistance to applicants to help them develop sound farm management practices, analyze problems and plan the best use of available resources essential for success in farming or ranching.
Individuals and entities primarily and directly engaged in farming or ranching on family-sized operations are encouraged to apply.
Requirements
In addition to being members of a socially disadvantaged group, individual applicants under this program must meet all requirements for FSA’s regular farm loan program assistance, including, but not limited to: Being able to repay the loan; having a satisfactory credit history; having sufficient experience, education or training; having an ability to incur the obligations of the loan,; be able to provide documentation that they are unable to obtain suitable credit from commercial sources; be a citizen of the United Sates or a legal resident alien.
Several types of loans are available.
Uses
Direct or Guaranteed Farm Ownership Loans may be used to purchase or enlarge a farm or ranch, purchase easements or rights of way needed in the farm’s operation, erect or improve buildings, promote soil and water conservation and development and pay closing costs.
Guaranteed farm ownership funds may also be used to refinance debt. Direct or Guaranteed Farm Operating Loans may be used to purchase livestock, poultry, farm equipment, feed, seed, fuel, fertilizer, chemicals, hail and other crop insurance, food, clothing, medical care and hired labor.
Additionally
Funds may also be used to refinance debt and to install or improve water systems for home use, livestock or irrigation and other improvements. Guaranteed farm loans are made by USDA approved lending institution (banks, savings and loans, and units of the Farm Credit System or Ag Credit Association) and are subject to federal or state supervision and guaranteed by FSA.
To obtain more information on FSA Loan Programs, contact the local Farm Service Agency office or the Farm Loan Program team at 419-668-4113 or 740-392-0801.
That’s all for now,
FSA Andy
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