About this programme
The Agriculture Resource Development Loan (ARDL) program has provided low-interest financing for agricultural conservation in Utah since July 1, 1983. It funds practices that conserve soil and water, increase agricultural yields, and improve water quality and wildlife habitat.
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF), through its Conservation Division, runs the program in partnership with local Conservation Districts and the Utah Conservation Commission (UCC). Local districts and the state commission both play a role in approving each loan.
How it works
The current interest rate is 4.00% APR. There is no prepayment penalty, and extra payments go straight to principal.
Money can be used for water management and irrigation projects, soil and land management practices, erosion and flood control, waste management practices, hydroponic and aquaponic systems, fodder systems, seasonal high-tunnels, crop storage structures, calving and lambing sheds, conservation easement transaction costs, and conservation-specific equipment.
The program coordinates with other funding sources, including UDAF's Water Optimization program and the federal NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
Borrowers can pay online by check, mail a check, or set up recurring bank transfers.
Who can apply
Farmers, ranchers, and irrigation companies in Utah qualify. Detailed eligibility criteria for a specific project are worked out directly with a UDAF Resource Coordinator.
The project must fit within an approved conservation plan and be approved by the local Conservation District before it goes to UDAF for underwriting.
How to apply
- Plan and begin: meet with your local UDAF Resource Coordinator, complete the application accurately, then sign and date it.
- Get Conservation District approval: the local Conservation District must approve the application, the conservation plan, and the project itself.
- UDAF Loan Department review: your Resource Coordinator forwards the materials to the Loan Department, which emails you a list of required documents.
- Underwriting: the Loan Department assesses your repayment ability, income, and collateral.
- Approval and closing: once the Utah Conservation Commission approves the loan, closing documents are prepared; funds are committed once you sign.
- Disbursement: submit invoices and documentation to draw down the funds.
Frequently asked
How long does it take to get an ARDL loan approved?
Plan on a minimum of 90 days for processing, approval, and closing. UDAF advises against starting your project until the loan is fully funded.
What is the current interest rate?
The current rate is 4.00% APR, and there is no penalty for prepaying; extra payments are applied directly to the principal.
Who do I talk to first about applying?
Start with your local UDAF Resource Coordinator, who helps you complete the application and works with your local Conservation District for approval.
Can ARDL funds be combined with other programs?
Yes, the program is coordinated with other funding sources such as UDAF's Water Optimization program and the federal NRCS EQIP program.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.