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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Ouray County
Ouray County lies in the Southern Rocky Mountains (MLRA 48A) region. Elevation averages about 7,341 feet.
Ouray County averages 21.5 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 184 days. Annual mean temperature is 42.1°F.
Ouray County's agricultural base centers on cattle, equine, and equine. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 116 farms working 86,363 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 1,654 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southwest Colorado |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Horses, Vegetables |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Extreme Drought (D3).
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 Ouray County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
102 Par Pl, Montrose, CO 81401
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 Ouray County Operations
Based on Ouray County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
High-altitude conservation programs focus on protecting sensitive riparian areas and alpine ecosystems from grazing impacts. Limited agricultural operations receive support for maintaining traditional land uses while protecting the scenic and environmental values of this dramatic mountain landscape.
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
Counties Bordering Ouray County
Ouray County shares borders with Gunnison County, Colorado, Hinsdale County, Colorado, Montrose County, Colorado, San Juan County, Colorado, and San Miguel County, Colorado. Conservation priorities, EQIP ranking pools, and drought conditions often overlap across county lines — it's worth checking neighboring county pages if your operation spans multiple jurisdictions.
Your Next Steps in Ouray 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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