Farm loans available to women and minorities

EPHRATA – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is offering financial assistance to women and/or minorities considering starting a farming or ranching operation.

“The Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency targets a portion of loan funds specifically to women and minority farmers and ranchers to ensure they receive a portion of loan funding,” Farm Loan Manager Libby Anderson said.

If you are currently farming or considering starting a farm or ranch you will need a “Purpose” a “Plan”, a “Product” and “People” to assist you. The Farm Service Agency farm loan staff is available to assist you with your financial farm plan.

The farm loan process and all loan requirements are identical for women and minority groups to those for all other applicants.

FSA has a variety of loans available. Funds can be used for annual operating, refinancing debt, purchasing farms, livestock and equipment.

Loan limits vary based on the type of loan but generally range from $50,000 to $300,000. The current operating loan interest rate for April is 2.25 percent and is locked in for the life of the loan.