CHEHALIS — The U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency has farm loan program funds specifically allocated for minority and women producers.

Loan funds can be used to purchase farms, livestock and equipment. They may also be used to operate the farm, build or repair farm service buildings, pay for soil and water conservation practices, and in some cases refinance debts. FSA offers direct and guaranteed loans.

Direct loans made by FSA to purchase a farm may extend to 40 years with a current interest rate of 3.5 percent. Direct operating loans may be made for one to seven years with a current interest rate of 1.5 percent, which is subject to change.

For more information, contact Jeff Peterson, senior farm loan officer, 1554 Bishop Road, Suite 100, Chehalis, WA 98532. Or call (360) 748-0083, ext. 2.