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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Custer County
Custer County is part of the Southern Rocky Mountains land resource region (MLRA 48A). The county's mean elevation is about 8,664 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Custer County sees 19.6 in of rain, a 184-day growing season, a 41.9°F mean annual temperature.
Custer County carries 2,517 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 72,866 acres. 274 farms operate in the county, averaging 362 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | South Central Mountains |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Horses, Poultry, Goats, Sheep, Honey |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Extreme Drought (D3). LFP-eligible for 4+ 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 Custer County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
10 Hermit Ln, Silver Cliff, CO 81252
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
248 Dozier Ave, Canon City, CO 81212
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 Custer County Operations
Based on Custer County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
High altitude grazing management and wildlife habitat conservation are key priorities in this mountain environment. Programs support sustainable ranching practices and help producers adapt to climate variability at elevation.
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 Custer County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Fremont County, Colorado, Huerfano County, Colorado, Pueblo County, Colorado, and Saguache County, Colorado. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Custer 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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