Highlands County, Florida
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
Lake Wales Ridge runs through the county creating well-drained sandy soils and rolling topography. Lake Istokpoga dominates the eastern portion while numerous citrus groves cover the ridge areas.
Citrus production remains the dominant agricultural activity despite recent challenges from diseases and hurricanes. Cattle ranching operates on improved pastures in lower-lying areas between groves and around lake systems.
Quick Facts
| Region | South Central Florida |
| Top Commodities | Fruit & tree nuts, Floriculture, Cattle & calves, Vegetables, Honey, Horses |
| Farms & Ranches | ~680 (approx.) |
| Agricultural Land | ~390,000 acres |
| Average Farm Size | ~466 acres |
Find Your Local USDA Offices
Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.
Find your Service Center:
Search for "Highlands County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.
What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.
Programs for Highlands County Operations
Based on Highlands County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Disaster assistance programs provide critical support for citrus groves recovering from hurricanes and disease impacts. EQIP funding targets water management systems and soil conservation on ridge cropland.
Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.
Local Conservation Priorities
EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.
We don't have Highlands County's specific LWG priorities yet.
Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Highlands County?"
Your Next Steps in Highlands County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Florida guide: Florida Farm Programs Guide
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