Range Improvement Loan Program
The Rangeland Improvement Loan Program provides low-interest loans to Montana farmers and ranchers for rangeland development and improvements. The intent is to encourage private landowners to undertake needed range conservation and improvement practices not currently implemented. Projects can include stock water development, cross fencing, establishment of grazing systems, reseeding, mechanical renovation, sagebrush management, and weed control. To be eligible for a rangeland improvement loan the person must be a Montana resident, engaged in farming or ranching, and possess the expertise to make a rangeland loan practical. Loan limits are $50,000, loan length is 10 years and the interest rate is 3 percent. The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) director sets the limits.
Loan applicants apply initially to the local conservation district where the application is reviewed along with the conservation plan. Department staff reviews the application before it is forwarded to the Rangeland Executive Committee. The department director makes the final approval.
