Courtesy/USDA

USDA News:

ALBUQUERQUE – USDA Rural Development State Director Terry Brunner was in Belen Friday to dedicate a solar power system, which is providing electricity to run the Burris Pecan Farm. 

The Four Daughters Land and Cattle Company, which owns the farm was awarded a $107,100 Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grant administered by Rural Development’s business program. The grant was used to offset the cost of the construction of the $428,402 solar power system.

“I commend the Four Daughters Land and Cattle for accessing our alternative energy program,” Brunner said during the dedication ceremony. “Our financing will help this growing business with their bottom line by reducing their energy costs.”

The funding was made through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which helps farmers, ranchers and small businesses in rural America with loan and grant financial opportunities to build renewable energy systems and to make energy efficiency improvements.  

The 564 panel solar system is now providing the electricity needed to power the pumps to irrigate the pecan farm, making the farm more profitable and competitive.

For those rural businesses, ranching and farming operations interested in accessing information on the REAP program visit USDA’s new energy website at: www.usda.gov/energy or call the Rural Development State Office in Albuquerque at 505-761-4952.

President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values.