Durango, Colorado, Sep 06, 2011 -- USDA Rural Development State Director Jim Isgar was in Durango today to present John Shaw, Shaw Solar, with a ceremonial check for a $19,625 Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant from USDA Rural Development. The REAP program offers funds for farmers, ranchers and rural small businesses to purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy-efficiency improvements. 

"I am pleased to see local businesses in La Plata county access this type of funding. USDA Rural Development has made a commitment to assist rural small business owners develop renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements that can help lower their energy costs each year," said Isgar. Shaw Solar will use the funding to construct a 15.5 kW solar array on the top of their building in Durango.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, administers and manages housing, business and community infrastructure and facility programs through a national network of state and local offices. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of more than $155 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. Further information on rural programs and funding available in Colorado can be found on our web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/co

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