Sedalia, MO, Dec 15, 2010 -- On Wednesday, December 15, 2010, Anita J. (Janie) Dunning, Missouri State Director, USDA Rural Development, presented certificates of appreciation to fourteen recipients of funds from the Renewable Energy for America Program (REAP). The REAP assistance consisted of $2,457,905 in loans and grants to these fourteen recipients in the 22 counties served by the Clinton Area Office. The funds will be used by these recipients to develop renewable energy systems or make energy efficient improvements to their operations.

Rural Development funding through the Renewable Energy for America Program is available to eligible farmers and small businesses. REAP loan guarantees and grants can be used for renewable energy systems, energy efficiency improvements, feasibility studies and energy audits. More information on the Renewable Energy for America Program, which was authorized under the 2008 Farm Bill, is available at www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/farmbill/index.html .

“Reducing our dependence on conventional energy sources, and promoting alternative energy, are key to conserving our resources and protecting our environment,” said Dunning. “I am pleased that the funding recipients will be able to make improvements to their farms and small businesses by conserving energy resources and improving their individual operations. These projects exemplify the Rural Development mission – committed to the future of rural communities. Special thanks are extended to our federal elected officials for making available the federal funds for these kinds of projects.”

Anyone seeking more information about USDA Rural Development programs may visit the homepage at http://www.rurdev.gov/mo or by contacting the Clinton Area Office at 1306 North 2^nd Street, Clinton, MO 64735 or by calling (660) 885-5567- ext 4.

“USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.” To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).