The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is seeking candidates to fill four vacancies on the Rural Finance Authority (RFA) Board. The purpose of the Rural Finance Authority is to develop the state’s agricultural resources by extending credit to qualifying farmers.

RFA administers several loan programs including basic farm loans for purchasing real estate and making agricultural improvements as well as loans to help farmers refinance agricultural related debt. Loans are also available to qualifying producers for livestock expansion, equipment purchases and building construction.

The 11-member board includes six public members and the commissioners of agriculture, commerce, finance, trade and economic development. No public member may reside within the metropolitan area. The board meets the first Wednesday of each month via teleconference and twice a year in person at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Freeman Building, 625 North Robert Street, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Interested candidates can find more information and application forms for applying by visiting the Minnesota Secretary of State’s Office Web site at www.sos.state.mn.us and clicking on the Open Appointments option.

Applications will be accepted until Friday, Jan. 30, 2009. To find more information on RFA please visit http://www.mda.state.mn.us/about/divisions/agfinance.htm.