The USDA’S Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced loan funds are available to help qualified women and minorities buy and operate family-sized farms and ranches.

Farm Ownership loan funds are available to help qualified socially disadvantaged persons purchase a farm or ranch. To qualify, the applicant must have participated in the business operation of a farm or ranch for at least three years. For those applicants that have at least one year’s experience in managing or operating a farm or ranch, Operating Loan funds are available to help with the purchase of livestock, machinery, and equipment, as well as, annual production expenses.

Persons who would like to learn more about FSA’s programs of assistance to women and minorities are urged to contact their nearest USDA Service Center. USDA Service Centers are listed in telephone directories under “United States Government, Department of Agriculture.” Further information is also available on the Oregon State FSA Web site at http://www.fsa.usda.gov/or/