ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has available low interest loans to keep pork producers on the cutting edge.

The Small Business Environmental Loan Program offers low interest loans to businesses for environmental projects. Pork producers who are faced with environmental challenges may qualify for a low interest loan. Pork producers can use the funds obtained from an Environmental Loan to purchase a wide range of equipment, such as irrigation equipment, incinerators for dead animal disposal or to pump out solids of their holding pond.

Eligibility - Businesses with eligible projects may apply for an environmental loan if the business employs fewer than 100 people, shows proof of profitability, and an ability to repay the loan.

Collateral - By law, the only pledge of collateral required for the program is the borrower's promissory note or signature. The lack of collateral required reduced paperwork for the borrower.

Amount - Up to $45,000 is available for approved pollution control projects or pollution prevention activities. A business may secure loans for both kinds of projects for up to $65,000. For more information about the loan program and other services offered for small businesses, contact the Business Assistance Programs in the Public Outreach & Assistance Division at the Department of Environmental Quality at (501) 682-0824 or 888-233-0326 or visit their website at www.adeq.state.ar.us/poa/envloans.htm

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