Grants for Farmers
Beyond growing produce crops and raising cattle, farmers use their land in a multitude of ways. Grants are available to help farmers make improvements to their land and growing conditions. Some grants help preserve land while others help socially disadvantaged farmers. All grants are available through U.S. Department of Agriculture programs.
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Farm Bill
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The 2008 Farm Bill was designed by Congress to help farmers through all stages of farming. Through the Farm Bill, a number of programs are available to assist farmers financially. For example The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program has $15 million in loans for those looking to enter the agriculture industry.
Land Conservation
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The Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Conservation Stewardship Program are two USDA programs that provide grants for those looking to conserve land. This means farmers are paid money to not farm on land that is home to specific wildlife or on certain types of land.
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Green Initiatives
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Grants are available to farmers and producers through the American Recovery Act to make eco-friendly improvements to farmland and businesses. This money can be used to add energy-efficient appliances or construct wind turbines. This law is designed to push America toward renewable energy sources.
Socially Disadvantaged
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Farmers who are socially disadvantaged (for example minority, women or handicapped) can apply for grants through the USDA. This money can be used to buy farmland or pay for production costs. This program is known as the Outreach and Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers (OASDFR) Competitive Grants Program.
Storage Units
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USDA also offers programs to assist farmers in purchasing or improving farm storage units. This can be cool or dry containers, and USDA only pays for a specified amount per unit. Farm Storage Facility Loans are available through local Farm Service Agency offices.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit farm image by Richard McGuirk from Fotolia.com