Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation has begun accepting applications for the Young Farmers Loan Forgiveness Program created in the 2014-15 State Budget. The program is designed to help the next generation of farmers get started in the business by making entry into the profession less expensive. It provides student loan forgiveness for young farmers who get a degree from an approved New York State college or university and agrees to operate a farm in New York for at least five years.

“This loan program is important to help keep agriculture the staple of upstate New York’s economy. I encourage any prospective young farmer to apply. This will help the young farmers who are breaking into the profession as well as our state as we look to improve our farming economy,” said Hawley.

More information about the Young Farmers Loan Forgiveness Program can be found at http://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/nys-grants-scholarships-awards/new-york-state-young-farmers-loan-forgiveness-incentive-program.html.