The USDA has energy programs that are not exclusive to small  scale meat processors, but do have applicability for a variety of businesses nationwide.

"One that you probably don't really ever even think about only when thinking of small scale meat processing and thinking about renewable energy. But we do offer our Rural Energy for America, we refer to as REAP. This promotes the use and incorporation of renewable energy systems and energy efficiency  improvements in to agricultural operations."

Andy Jermolowicz, with the Rural Business-Cooperative Service, added, "You can use that program for the construction, expansion, modernization or a facility and it does have its benefits by having USDA in there offering to guarantee."

He says his office has noticed an up-tick in interest in these programs over the last decade. 

"A people, consumers and producers, have both become a lot more interested in and engaged in the local more regional food system."

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com

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