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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Arapahoe County
Arapahoe County is part of the Central High Plains, Southern Part land resource region (MLRA 67B). The county's mean elevation is about 5,585 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Arapahoe County sees 16.4 in of rain, a 214-day growing season, a 49.5°F mean annual temperature.
Arapahoe County carries 316 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 117,356 acres. 607 farms operate in the county, averaging 444 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Front Range |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Wheat, Horses, Poultry, Vegetables, Goats |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 19+ 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 Arapahoe County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
133 W Bijou Ave, Byers, CO 80103
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 Arapahoe County Operations
Based on Arapahoe County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Urban interface management and conservation of remaining agricultural lands are primary focuses. Programs emphasize protecting water quality in urban watersheds and supporting transition to sustainable farming practices.
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 Arapahoe County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Adams County, Colorado, Denver County, Colorado, Douglas County, Colorado, Elbert County, Colorado, Jefferson County, Colorado, and Lincoln County, Colorado. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Arapahoe County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Colorado guide: Colorado Farm Programs Guide
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