The federal Farm Service Agency  has started a conservation loan program.

Farm Loan Manager Kevin Jordan said it would provide farm owners and farm-related business operators access to credit to implement conservation techniques that conserve natural resources.

This will provide farmers who want to implement conservation measures on their lands a chance to do so by providing assistance with their up-front costs, he said. In return, these producers will help reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and promote sustainable and organic agricultural practices.

Direct conservation loans may be obtained through local Farm Service Agency offices with loan limits as much as $300,000, Jordan said. Guaranteed conservation loans of up to $1,112,000 are available from lenders working with the agency.

Loan proceeds may be used to implement conservation practices approved by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, such as installing conservation structures; establishing forest cover; installing water conservation measures; establishing improving permanent pastures; implementing manure management; and adapting other emerging or existing conservation practices, techniques or technologies.

For more information on the Conservation Loan program, contact the Umatilla FSA office or visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov.