SPRINGFIELD — Scherrie V. Giamanco, state executive director for USDA’s Illinois Farm Service Agency (FSA), announced Wednesday that funds are now available for Guaranteed Conservation Loans. Conservation loans allow farmers and ranchers to implement conservation practices on their land that will help protect natural resources.

“Guaranteed Conservation Loans are a useful alternative to help operators implement any Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) approved conservation practice including, but not limited to, waste management systems, conservation structures or water conservation measures,” said Giamanco.

Unlike other FSA guaranteed loan programs, conservation loans are not limited to family size farms. Operators who may not normally qualify for an FSA guaranteed farm operating or ownership loan could be eligible for a Guaranteed Conservation Loan.