Direct farm ownership loans available

Montana FSA  

BOZEMAN — U.S. Department of Agriculture Montana Farm Service Agency Executive Director Bruce Nelson announced that farmers and ranchers still have time to apply for low-interest loans available through the FSA direct farm ownership program. Applications must be approved by Sept. 30 to take advantage of the funding available this fiscal year.

“If you are thinking about purchasing or expanding your farm or ranch, our affordable loans can help,” Nelson said. “There is currently no waiting for funds, so give us a call today.”

Eligible farmers and ranchers can borrow up to $300,000 to buy farmland, construct or repair buildings, pay closing costs, or promote soil and water conservation. The interest rate can be as low as 1.5 percent with up to 40 years to repay.

New farmers and ranchers, military veterans, and underserved farmers and ranchers also are encouraged to apply. Each year Congress targets 80 percent of available loan funds to beginning and targeted underserved farmers and ranchers. Targeted underserved groups include American Indians or Alaskan Natives, Asians, Blacks or African Americans, Native Hawaiians, or other Pacific Islanders, Hispanics and women.

For more information about farm loan, visit http://www.fsa.usda.gov/farmloans, or contact your local FSA office.  To find your local FSA county office, visit https://offices.usda.gov.