FSA to help beginning, small farmers

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January 29, 2013

FSA to help beginning, small farmers

Anonymous Special to The U-R The Union-Recorder Tue Jan 29, 2013, 04:12 PM EST

ATHENS — New and beginning farmers and ranchers in Georgia now have an agricultural Microloan credit option to consider.

As of Jan. 15, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will offer its customers a Microloan designed to help farmers and ranchers with credit needs of $35,000 or less. The loan features a streamlined application and a simplified qualification process built to fit the needs of new and smaller producers.

“This innovative offering will be more customer-friendly than our larger, more traditional loan programs,” said David Laster, Acting State Executive Director. “Farms and ranches seeking a smaller loan for start-up or operational needs now have a great new tool to consider.”

“For those selling at Farmers’ Markets or through community-supported agriculture operations (CSAs), a Microloan might serve their needs perfectly,” Laster continued.” “And the reduced paperwork associated with the new Microloan will help expedite the process for everyone.”

In 2012, the Farm Service Agency provided $113.4 million in farm loan assistance to agricultural producers of all sizes in Georgia. That year, operating loans accounted for the majority of the loans extended (639), while farm ownership loans were fewer (73). In 2012, emergency loans were written for (12) producers in Georgia recovering from natural disasters.

“The interest rate of 1.25 percent on the new FSA Microloan is also a great benefit for farmers and ranchers who are just starting out, in need of capital and on a tight budget,” according to Laster. “Producers in every Georgia county can contact their nearest FSA office for details and to determine if they qualify for a Microloan.” The Microloan term can be up to seven years.

In response to tighter financial markets, USDA has expanded the availability of farm credit, helping farmers refinance loans across the U.S. Since 2009, USDA has provided more than 128,000 loans to family farmers totaling more than $18 billion. Over 50 percent of the loans went to beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.

For more information on Microloans and other FSA programs, please contact your local USDA service center.

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