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USDA updates loan programs for beginner farmers

Aug 08, 2024
By Farms.com

AFBF supports USDA’s farm loan program enhancements

 

Recently American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall expressed support for the USDA's proposed adjustments to the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Farm Loan Programs. These reforms are specifically targeted at increasing loan availability for new and beginning farmers, a group that has been at the forefront of discussions between the AFBF and the USDA.

The changes, which were shaped by insights from recent dialogues with FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux, are intended to provide essential flexibility in the lending process. These adjustments are seen as vital in easing the economic strains faced by farm families, especially in the current challenging economic landscape.

Duvall highlighted the proactive steps taken by Ducheneaux and his team in reassessing their loan programs to better meet the needs of modern farmers. “We welcome the concept of USDA’s changes,” Duvall noted, “and we look forward to diving into the details of the rule.”

The AFBF plans to actively engage with the USDA to fine-tune the reforms, ensuring they effectively support farm and ranch families in continuing their agricultural pursuits.

This positive reception from the AFBF signifies strong support for the USDA’s efforts to adapt its policies to better serve the agricultural sector, particularly by nurturing the next generation of farmers with improved access to necessary financial resources.


Trending Video

Supplemental Nitrogen on Soybeans: Can Early Nitrogen Increase Yield?

Video: Supplemental Nitrogen on Soybeans: Can Early Nitrogen Increase Yield?

Can supplemental nitrogen help soybeans reach higher yield potential? Technical Agronomist Tim Sickman walks through an ongoing trial at the Nutrien Innovation Farm in Owensboro, Kentucky, exploring whether a modest amount of nitrogen applied at planting can support higher-yielding soybean environments.

The trial compares 30 pounds of supplemental nitrogen across both 15- and 30-inch rows, along with treatments that include sulfur and micronutrients. Similar trials conducted in 2024 and 2025 delivered a six- to seven-bushel yield response, prompting the team to expand the research this season.

Early observations show that treated soybeans are slightly taller and averaging about two additional nodes on the main stem. These added nodes could create more opportunities for blooms and pods, but the true results will come at harvest when the team evaluates pod development, seed fill and final yield.

In This Video:

Why high-yield soybeans may need supplemental nitrogen

Results from the 2024 and 2025 trials

Nitrogen treatments in 15- and 30-inch rows

Fertilizer placement and application methods

Differences in plant height and node counts

Potential effects on pod development and yield