USDA Rural Development State Director Patty Clark announced that 25 projects have been selected for funding to produce renewable energy and make energy efficiency improvements. Funding is made available through USDA Rural Development’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which is authorized by the 2008 Farm Bill. “USDA Rural Development’s REAP Program assists Kansas agricultural producers and small business owners invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies that help reduce their energy needs,” stated USDA Rural Development State Director Patty Clark. “The REAP Program helps create jobs in rural Kansas and stabilizes energy costs for farmers and rural businesses.” Kansas small businesses and farmers selected for funding include Boles-Ranch LLC in the amount of $6,400. The REAP Program provides grants and loan guarantees for agricultural producers and rural small businesses to reduce energy consumption and costs, use renewable energy technologies in their operations and conduct feasibility studies for renewable energy projects. Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has awarded 139 Kansas small businesses and farmers with more than $3.8 million in financing to install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements. USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has an active portfolio of more than $170 billion in loans and loan guarantees. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.