The Rangeland Improvement Loan Program was started in 1979 as part of the Rangeland Resource Program (MCA 76-14-111). It makes low-interest loans available to Montana's farmers and ranchers for rangeland improvements and development, and provides low-interest loans as an incentive for private landowners to undertake range improvement practices.

Current interest rate = 1.5%

Maximum loan amount = $75,000

Repayment is scheduled for a maximum of ten years with annual installments

Loan applicant must apply initially to the local conservation district where the application is reviewed along with the conservation plan. The application is then reviewed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), before being forwarded to the Rangeland Resource Committee. The Director of DNRC has final approval authority.

LOAN PROGRAM BY THE NUMBERS

Applications = 272

Loans = 161

Total Loaned  = $3,588,261.55

Total Paid Back = $3,329,153.96

No defaults