USDA sets aside funding for women, minorities
Tiffany Sukola | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 12 years AGO
CBH Columbia Basin Herald Local News
EPHRATA - The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency recently announced it allocated a portion of its farm loan program funding specifically for women and minority producers.
Judy Olson, state executive director, said allocating funds for women and minorities is important in making sure that they have access to loan programs.
"While FSA farm loans are available to all qualified applicants, by setting aside funds specifically for women and minorities, it ensures that they will receive a portion of available funds," Olson stated.
Loan funds can be used to purchase farms, livestock and equipment.
They may also be used to fund farm operations, pay for soil and water conservation practices, build or repair buildings and refinance debts.
The agency offers both direct and guaranteed loans, according to the press release.
Terms under direct loans made by FSA to purchase a farm can be extended to 40 years with a current interest rate of 3 percent.
Special programs are also available for lending with a commercial lender.
For more information about the loan programs in Grant or Adams counties, contact farm loan Manager Libby Anderson at 509-754-2463.
ARTICLES BY HERALD STAFF WRITER
Bird removal helps fish in Wanapum pool
EPHRATA - A project to move Caspian terns off an island at the Potholes is paying dividends in steelhead survival around Wanapum and Priest Rapids dams.
Quarter of county residents burdened by housing costs
OLYMPIA - About 25 percent of households in Grant County are paying more than they can reasonably afford to for housing expenses, according to recent data from the state Affordable Housing Advisory Board.
EDC lunch to highlight Latino business contributions
Effect of Latino-owned businesses on economy to be discussed
MOSES LAKE- The economic contributions of Latino-ran businesses in the state will be the topic of the Grant County Economic Development Council's next luncheon in January.