Farming

Operation Grow Hardware & Equipment Loan Program

2 min read
A blue tractor pulling a red tiller in a garden.

The Operation Grow Hardware and Equipment Loan Program (OG-HELP) provides short-term access to essential farm equipment for beginning veteran farmers across Alabama. Equipment loans cost $100 per item and include access to training and support to ensure safe and effective use. This program helps eliminate common equipment barriers and supports veterans in growing their farm operations.

OG-HELP’s mission is to empower beginning veteran farmers by providing equitable access to farm equipment and strengthening local food systems through hands-on support and community-driven solutions.

Operation Grow Hardware & Equipment Loan Program logo How it Works

1. Beginning veteran farmers complete the online equipment rental application.

2. Each request is reviewed by a site agent and handled on a first-come-first-serve basis.

3. Farmers are contacted after submitting their application to confirm availability and logistics.

4. Equipment loans are limited to one item at a time and capped at four days.

5. Farmers must provide their own transportation. A trailer is available with the equipment if needed.

6. Before farmers can rent the equipment, they must do the following:

  • Enter all required information on the equipment rental application.
  • Complete the required training video(s) at checkout or attend a live training.
  • Sign the equipment rental agreement at the time of rental, which is provided by the Extension agent.

Pickup Locations & Available Equipment

OG-HELP equipment is currently located at two regional hubs:

  • North Alabama Agriplex, 1714 Tallyho St. SW, Cullman, AL 35055
  • Chilton Regional Research and Extension Center, 120 Co. Rd. 756, Clanton, AL 35045

Farmers are responsible for picking up and returning equipment to its designated location. Also, equipment must be handled with care. While routine wear and tear is covered, farmers are expected to communicate damage and participate in repair efforts when possible. The items below are currently available for loan. However, equipment may vary by location. Check the application form to see what equipment is available nearest you.

  • Betstco Flail Mower FH-EF 105
  • 41-inch Betstco Heavy Duty Tiller FH-IGN105
  • Nolt’s Produce Supplies 36-inch Plastic Mulch Layer RB436
  • Rainflo Plastic Mulch Layer 2470
  • 12-head Berry Hill Irrigation Poly Planter Jr. Seeder
  • Rainflo Standard Mulch Lifter 1800
  • Rainflo Water Wheel Planter 1270

Ready to Apply?

Complete and submit the online equipment rental application linked below. All requests are first-come, first-served and subject to availability. Also below is a PDF of the equipment rental agreement for reference. This agreement is not completed until the time of rental.

Equipment Rental Application    Sample Equipment Rental Agreement

Need Help or Have Questions?

For questions about pickup, training, or equipment, reach out to the contacts listed for your OG-HELP site or the program director.

North Alabama Agriplex

  • Holt Akers-Campbell
  • Travis Kress
  • Kira Sims

Chilton Regional Research & Extension Center

  • David Lawrence
  • Neil Kelly

Operation Grow Director