Is the USDA dabbling in real estate?

They apparently have some to sell. From a Farm Service Agency news release:

California’s USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Val Dolcini, announced that a recently acquired rural Amador County ranch property is available for sale. As a standard cost efficiency practice, FSA, like other agricultural lenders, offers properties acquired from borrowers through public announcement and real estate listing.

“We periodically acquire rural properties and make them available for public sale,” said Dolcini. “These are typically prime agricultural locations, some with dwellings and outbuildings on the property.”

Currently, a 110-acre Amador County open range property is available with no dwellings or outbuildings. The rangeland acres are suitable for livestock grazing and ranching activity.

Eligible socially disadvantaged and beginning farmers and ranchers are given first priority to purchase these properties at the appraised values provided the property meets FSA program guidelines. Purchase offers will be accepted in a sealed bid process, with a minimum bid amount provided. Properties may be in various stages of preparation for sale. FSA will contact potential bidders when the properties are available.

To place your name, phone number and email address on the contact list, please contact your local Farm Service Agency office to register your contact information. FSA offices can be found in the white pages under the U.S. Department of Agriculture or FSA offices in California can be found on the agency’s website at www.fsa.usda.gov/ca .

For further information about these properties, call the FSA California State Office Farm Loan Program staff at 530-792-5520. Interested parties can access the property descriptions at the USDA Real Estate website www.resale.usda.gov .