EPHRATA — With the new 4-H and FFA year starting, it is time to consider the Farm Service Agency to financially assist in 4-H and FFA youth projects.

“Every year we are grooming a great group of potential farmers for the future and exposing them to their first dealing with credit, financial management and financial responsibility”, said Libby Anderson, Farm Loan Manager.

FSA has established a great network with local 4-H and FFA leaders, schools, local fairs, auctioneers and other to make this a successful program.

FSA Youth Loans have become very popular as proven by the repeat youth loan borrowers year after year. FSA youth loan participants must remember to be responsible for the day to day care of your animals and encourages youth to get out into your community to market yourselves to seek additional fair support.

FSA can take the financial burden off the parents with youth involved in 4-H and FFA projects that are income-producing agricultural projects in connection with 4-H clubs, FFA and other agricultural groups.

Projects must be planned and operated with the help of the organization advisor or leader and have parental or guardian support.

The maximum loan amount is $5,000. The current interest rate is 2.625%. The project animal is the security for the loan and FSA’s name is added to fair proceed checks as loan repayment.