Capitalizing on Credit: How Low-Risk Borrowing Can Benefit Your Bottom Line

RFD-TV Farm Legal and Tax Expert Roger McEowen explains the basics of Low-Risk Credit in Farming, and how an understanding of the farm credit landscape lets producers tactfully approach debt.

TOPEKA, Kan. (RFD-TV) — Borrowing capital is essential for farms, as it helps fund everything from inputs to land. While credit can come with some risks, there is a method to harvest success through credit without risking your farm’s bottom line.

RFD-TV Farm Legal and Tax Expert Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to explain the tactics of Low-Risk Credit Farming.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, McEowen explains the basics of low-risk credit farming and how understanding the farm credit landscape can help producers strike a good balance between risk and reward. He also discussed the difference between “good debt” and “bad debt,” and why business owners should be highly selective about the purpose of debt. Finally, he highlighted additional financial strategies for low-risk borrowing as well as the importance of finding a trusted advisor and maintaining a good relationship with your lender.

For McEowen’s in-depth look at Low-Risk Credit Farming, check out his Firm to Farm blog post on the topic by clicking the link below:

Firm to Farm: Low-Risk Credit Farming — Harvesting Success Without Sacrificing the Farm

Related Stories
The new rule removes prevented-plant buy-up coverage, prompting strong objections from farm groups concerned about added risk exposure.
Lawmakers and experts react to the Administration’s long-awaited announcement of “bridge” aid to stabilize farms and offset 2025 losses until expanded safety-net programs begin in 2026.
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies advises farmers on end-of-year financial planning, including preparing records, avoiding common credit mistakes, and evaluating equipment purchases for 2026.
Eastern Region VP Joey Nowotny of Delaware joins us on FFA Today to talk about his new leadership role and an exciting year ahead for the National FFA Organization.
Southern producers head into 2026 with thin margins, tighter credit, and rising agronomic risks despite scattered yield improvements.
Credit stress is building for row-crop farms despite steady land values and slight price improvements.
Reed Marcum started hosting a toy drive in 2015. Since then, he has distributed thousands of toys across his home state of Oklahoma and in Texas and Arkansas. Now serving in the Army, Reed’s family and local 4-H chapter are running the event.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, adding a decade of experience in the digital side of broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Oregon FFA CEO Kjer Kizer discusses the proposed budget reductions, potential consequences, and the importance of protecting learning opportunities for students interested in agriculture.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains why the 2026 USMCA review could directly affect dairy access, produce competition, and export reliability for U.S. farmers and ranchers.
Farms and major food companies use AI to improve efficiency and forecast demand. Still, developers said that training AI for different uses is only possible with support from knowledgeable workers.
The report shows that, despite production challenges, dairy farmers are producing more milk with fewer resources per gallon across the industry.
Smaller U.S. production and steady global demand could provide better pricing opportunities in 2026.
More than 1,100 residents and farmers have signed a letter urging Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to step in, saying the proposal threatens irrigation supplies and long-term farm viability in the region.