Start Here
Find your situation
Every operation is different. These walkthroughs show you which programs apply to your situation, what order to tackle them, and how to prepare for your first meeting.
Starting From Scratch
Buying your first ranch
You want to buy land and start a cattle operation. You need financing, infrastructure, and a plan for navigating USDA programs from day one.
You've Been Ranching for Years
Never applied for programs
You run an established operation and you've never used EQIP, CSP, or other programs — or you tried once and it didn't work out. You're doing fine, but you might be leaving money on the table.
Taking Over the Family Operation
Succession and transition
You're inheriting or transitioning into a family ranch. You need to update records, figure out if you qualify as a beginning farmer, and get the operation on solid financial footing.
After a Disaster
What to do right now
Drought, wildfire, flood, blizzard, or livestock loss. You need to know what programs apply, what deadlines matter, and what to do in the first 48 hours.
Not sure which fits? The screener asks a few questions and builds a personalized action plan.
Find out where to start →