Farming is a year-round job, and as we turn the calendar to September and prepare to leave summer behind, harvest season is likely on your mind. But harvest season is just one part of the big picture. To keep your operation running smoothly and profitably, it takes careful planning, smart investing, and timely access to working capital. That’s where an agriculture loan can make a big difference.

We work closely with Iowa farmers every day at American State Bank. Whether you raise crops, livestock, or both, here are five practical ways to use an ag loan to prepare for fall harvest and support your operation well beyond the season.

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1. Invest in New or Replacement Equipment

Harvest season puts a lot of wear and tear on your machinery, and a broken-down tractor or combine can cost you a lot more than just your time, it can also cost you profit! If your machinery is outdated, unreliable, or costly to maintain, a Farm Equipment Loan can help you purchase new or used equipment before breakdowns happen.

Plus, financing equipment now may also give you access to end-of-season deals from dealers and manufacturers.

Apply for a Farm Equipment Loan Here

2. Cover Seasonal Operating Costs

It’s common to experience some cash flow challenges this time of the year. And your expenses don’t wait until you’ve seen the return from your harvest. You might have fuel, feed, labor, or repair bills piling up, and no crop checks coming in yet. That’s where an Operating Line of Credit from American State Bank comes in.

You can draw from your line of credit whenever needed and only pay interest on what you actually use. It’s a smart way to manage your working capital while staying flexible throughout the whole season.

Open an Operating Line of Credit

3. Add to Your Livestock Operation

Fall is a great time for livestock farmers to invest in their feeder cattle or breeding stock. A Livestock Loan can help you grow your herd before winter sets in and give you the foundation for a successful spring calving or market season.

Whether you’re planning to scale up or replace some aging stock, having quick access to capital can help you take advantage of auctions or local sales when the opportunity strikes. Not sure if this is right for you? Talk to a local ag loan expert today!

Contact a Local Ag Lender

4. Upgrade Infrastructure Around the Farm Before Winter

Even though you’re staying busy in the fields, now is a good time to take stock of your farm infrastructure. Consider making some of these improvements:

  • Expanding or upgrading your grain storage bins
  • Repairing drainage or irrigation systems
  • Installing fencing or livestock handling facilities
  • Winterizing barns or sheds

And guess what? There’s an ag loan available to make this happen. With a Farm Improvement Loan, you can make the necessary upgrades before the ground freezes and position your farm for better efficiency and yields next season. Win-win!

Learn How This Loan Can Benefit Your Farm

5. Plan Ahead for Expansion or Refinancing

Your farm is your business, and like any business, growth takes vision and long-term planning. If you’ve been thinking about:

  • Buying more land
  • Refinancing existing farmland loans
  • Restructuring debt for better terms

…then now is the time to talk with our team about a Farm Real Estate Loan. Our lenders can walk you through options tailored to your land value, operation size, and future goals.

Schedule a Meeting with Our Lending Team

Why Work with American State Bank?

Farming is personal to us. Many of our team members are farmers themselves or come from farming families. We understand the pressures and pride that come with running a farm in Iowa—and we’re proud to support the agricultural community that keeps our region strong!

  • Local decisions made quickly
  • Flexible loan options to fit your season and operation
  • Long-term partnerships focused on your success

Whether you’re preparing for harvest, growing your livestock, or planning for the future, we’re here to help. Meet with a lender near you to discuss your farm’s financial needs.

Meet a Lender Near You

Helpful Resources for Iowa Farmers

We’ve rounded up some additional tools to help you make the most of the fall season:

We’re Here to Help

No matter the size of your operation, having the right financial partner can help you harvest more than just crops—it can help you harvest long-term success. With American State Bank on your side, you’re never farming alone.

Let’s talk about your goals for this season and next.

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