Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Apache County
Apache County is part of the Colorado Plateau land resource region (MLRA 35). The county's mean elevation is about 6,144 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Apache County sees 11.8 in of rain, a 214-day growing season, a 51.1°F mean annual temperature.
Apache County carries 17,389 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 4,926,716 acres. 5,343 farms operate in the county, averaging 1,036 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northeast Arizona |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Vegetables, Horses, Sheep, Goats, Poultry |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 52+ weeks — check FSA for livestock forage assistance.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor · Updated 2026-04-14
Your Local USDA Offices
Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS (conservation programs like EQIP and CSP) and FSA (loans, disaster assistance, farm numbers). Here are the offices serving Apache County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
Tseyi Shopping Center, Chinle, AZ 86503
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
140 W Cleveland, St Johns, AZ 85936
This county also has 4 additional NRCS offices. View all offices
Office info is from USDA’s published directory. Call ahead to confirm hours before visiting.
What to do when you call: Ask to schedule a meeting with a conservation planner (for EQIP/CSP) or a loan officer (for FSA programs). Mention the type of operation you run and what improvements you're considering.
Programs for Apache County Operations
Based on Apache County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
EQIP funding prioritizes range improvement and water development for livestock operations in this high desert environment. CRP enrollment focuses on erosion control and wildlife habitat enhancement on marginal croplands.
Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener. Two minutes, personalized action packet.
Local Conservation Priorities
Each county's NRCS Local Working Group sets the conservation practices that score highest for EQIP funding. Knowing your county's priorities before you apply can significantly improve your ranking.
How to find your county's priorities:
- Call your local NRCS office and ask: "What practices is the Local Working Group prioritizing this year?"
- Ask which EQIP ranking pool your operation fits (there may be separate pools for livestock, cropland, forestry, etc.)
- Check your state NRCS website for published ranking criteria
Nearby Counties
Operators in Apache County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Graham County, Arizona, Greenlee County, Arizona, Navajo County, Arizona, Montezuma County, Colorado, Catron County, New Mexico, and Cibola County, New Mexico. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Apache County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Arizona guide: Arizona Farm Programs Guide
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