EPHRATA - The Farm Service Agency borrowing limit for microloans was increased to $50,000 in November, and microloans now offer borrowers simplified lending with less paperwork.

Acccording to FSA manager Libby Anderson, the microloan change allows beginning, small and mid-sized farmers to access an additional $15,000 in loans using a simplified application process with up to seven years to repay.

"Microloans are part of USDA's continued commitment to small and mid-sized farming operations," Anderson said.

Additionally, changes to FSA eligibility requirements will help beginning farmers and ranchers access land, a key barrier to entry level producers.

FSA policies related to farm experience have changed so that other types of skills may be considered to meet the direct farming experience required for farm ownership loan eligibility.

Operation or management of non-farm businesses, leadership positions while serving in the military or advanced education in an agricultural count toward the experience applicants need to show when applying for farm ownership loans.

More information about FSA's microloan program can be found at www.fsa.usda.gov or by calling Libby Anderson, Farm Loan Manager, (509) 754.2463.