USDA offers farm financing

Low-interest farm loans remain available for women, minority and beginning farmers and ranchers through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency.

Loan funds are available to buy farms, livestock and equipment. Funds may also be used to operate farms, build or repair farm buildings, pay for soil and water conservation practices, and in some cases refinance debts. FSA offers both direct and guaranteed loans.

Direct loans to buy a farm may carry the current April interest rate of 3.375 percent over 40 years, and direct operating loans may be made for one to seven years with an Apr...