Ranchers and farmers in Cypress County and the MD of Acadia, which were hit by wildfires in October, can now apply for interest-free rebuilding loans of up to $25,000.

Applications under the Hilda Wildfire Support Loan Program will be accepted until March 31. The loans can go to fund working capital, pay expenses and/or help replace lost assets.

The Hilda wildfires burned more than 86,000 acres in the two municipalities; killed almost 200 head of livestock; damaged pastures, fields, fences and buildings; and destroyed one home.

The loans are interest free for 24 months. For more details, go to the Agriculture Financial Services Corporation website or call 1-877-899-2372.