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

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues through Saturday, wrapping up another successful year of celebrating agriculture in the Commonwealth.
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.
National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
The proposal signals a renewed push to offset tariff-driven losses, stabilize nutrition programs, and broaden eligibility for farm aid, though its path forward will depend on congressional negotiations.
The application deadline is March 8, 2026. The 1890 National Scholars Program aims to encourage students at 1890 land-grant universities to pursue careers in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences.