News Release

Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler recently announced that free technical assistance is now available for Missouri livestock producers installing energy efficient equipment on their farms thanks to an energy program announced earlier this year. Producers interested in improving the energy efficiency of a single system, such as heating and cooling, lighting or irrigation systems, can now receive free technical assistance for their projects through an ongoing agriculture energy program.

The Missouri Agricultural Energy Savings Team-A Revolutionary Opportunity program, known as MAESTRO, looks at ways to save energy on farm operations and farm residences, through the installation of energy efficient equipment. Since its launch in January, the program has completed audits on many farms and connected farmers in every corner of the state with technical assistance and support.

"Missouri farmers have always shown great interest in both efficiency and innovation," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "We want to provide Missouri's agriculture industry with the tools and technology necessary to remain leaders in an ever-changing marketplace. The MAESTRO program represents an opportunity to improve overall efficiency at a reduced cost to the farm and farm family."

MAESTRO is a program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy through the American Recovery Reinvestment Act and operated by the Missouri Department of Agriculture, University of Missouri and EnSave, Inc.

Program incentives include:

• Free Technical Assistance
• Energy Management Plans - a $1,500 value for only $250, free if you install the recommended equipment
• Home Energy Audit - a $500 value for only $125
• 75% cost-share on the total project cost, not to exceed $5,000
• Loan buy down to 3% - up to $50,000
• 75% loan guarantee for loans up to $50,000

To contact the MAESTRO team directly, call 800-732-1399. For more information on the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit mda.mo.gov.