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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Larimer County
Elevation across Larimer County averages about 7,692 feet. The county falls within the Southern Rocky Mountains (MLRA 48A) land resource region.
The growing season in Larimer County spans roughly 184 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 20.5 inches per year. January lows average around 15°F while July highs reach about 79°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 1,620 farms in Larimer County, operating across 467,157 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 288 acres. Top commodities include cattle, milk, and sod.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northern Front Range Colorado |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Dairy, Floriculture, Corn, Wheat, Horses |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Exceptional Drought (D4). LFP-eligible for 35+ 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 Larimer County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
2150 Centre Ave Bldg A, Fort Collins, CO 80526
This county also has 1 additional NRCS office. 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 Larimer County Operations
Based on Larimer County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Water conservation and irrigation efficiency programs are critical given competing urban demands and limited water supplies. Beginning farmer programs support new agricultural entrepreneurs, including organic producers and direct-market operations serving the Fort Collins and Denver metro areas.
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
Adjacent Counties
Counties bordering Larimer County: Boulder County, Colorado, Grand County, Colorado, Jackson County, Colorado, Weld County, Colorado, Albany County, Wyoming, and Laramie County, Wyoming. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Larimer 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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