Source: USDA FSA, 8/6/14

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) North Carolina Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director, Bob Etheridge, announced that North Carolina farmers and producers still have time to apply for low interest 2014 loans available through FSAs direct farm ownership program. The deadline to submit applications is September 30, 2014.

Eligible producers can borrow up to $300,000 in direct farm ownership loans to buy or enlarge a farm, construct new farm buildings or improve structures, pay closing costs, or promote soil and water conservation and protection. The interest rate on select loans can be as low as 1.5 percent with up to 40 years to repay.

This is an extraordinary opportunity for more farmers and ranchers to get lowinterest loans to start their first farm, or expand an existing family farm, said Etheridge. There are no backlogs or waiting for funding. If youve dreamed about starting a farm, or if youre looking to strengthen your farm, we want to help.

FSA encourages all interested applicants to apply for direct farm ownership loans. For more information about the program and other loans administered by FSA, visit your local County FSA office or www.fsa.usda.gov.