Topeka, Kansas, March 15, 2002 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing a $320,000 Rural Economic Development Loan to Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. in Scott City, Kansas, according to Chuck Banks, State Director for USDA Rural Development in Kansas. USDA Rural Development is the agency responsible for implementing the commitment of the Administration and Congress to the development of rural communities through the administration of a number of programs designed to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas.

"Rural Economic Development loans and grants are made to Rural Development’s electric and telecommunications borrowers, who in turn relend the funds for projects that create new job opportunities. Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. will relend the $320,000 zero-interest loan to Boulware Grain Company in Modoc, Kansas for the expansion of its grain elevator business. Boulware Grain is a family-owned, independent grain marketing and storage facility. A new metal structure will increase its current grain storage capacity by 380,000 bushels to 2,180,000 bushels. Two new jobs will be created in the 30 resident community. Boulware is contributing $130,000 to the project," related DeAnna Gerhardt, Rural Development Coordinator in the Garden City office.

"Rural Economic Development loans and grants help rural communities retain jobs, create new jobs and ensure the safety and security of their citizens. USDA Rural Development is pleased to provide the benefits of its programs to cities and towns in Kansas," State Director Banks said.