Farm Credit of Western Arkansas to Return $10 Million to Members Through Patronage Program

Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, a rural lending cooperative serving 41 counties—including Howard and Sevier counties—will return $10 million of its 2025 profits to its members through its annual Patronage program.

The cooperative launched the Patronage program in 1997 and has since returned a total of $197 million to its member-borrowers.

As a cooperative, Farm Credit operates differently than traditional financial institutions. Every borrower is a member-owner, meaning profits are either reinvested into the cooperative or distributed directly back to members. This structure aligns the success of the organization with the success of its members and allows Farm Credit to provide competitive financing while remaining focused on its mission of supporting producers, families, and rural communities across Western Arkansas.

Patronage is one of the most significant financial benefits of doing business with Farm Credit. By sharing profits, the cooperative effectively reduces the cost of borrowing for members throughout its 41-county service area. Members may use their patronage funds however they choose, whether to offset operating expenses, reinvest in equipment, or plan for the upcoming year.

Eligible members may pick up their patronage checks during an open house at their local branch in late February. The Nashville branch is located at 302 West Bishop Street. Additional details will be shared with members via postcard or email.