USDA Announces Loan Program for Natural Resource Conservation

USDA Press Release No. 0438.10 Contact: Tanya Brown (202) 690-4585 WASHINGTON, Sept. 2, 2010 -- Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today 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 give farmers who want to implement conservation measures on their lands a chance to do so by providing assistance with their up-front costs," said Vilsack. "In return, these producers will help to reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and promote sustainable and organic agricultural practices."

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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.

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.

For more information on the Conservation Loan program, contact a local FSA office or visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov. For more information about this announcement please see the notice which will appear in the September 3 edition of the Federal Register: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA/federalNotices?area=home&subject=lare&topic=frd-ii