Hillsborough County, Florida
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
The Hillsborough River flows through the county creating fertile floodplains, while Tampa Bay borders the western edge. Eastern areas feature sandy soils and gentle rolling terrain suitable for diverse agriculture.
Urban pressure limits agricultural expansion, but operations focus on high-value crops like strawberries and vegetables. Large dairy operations and cattle ranches occupy remaining rural areas in the eastern portions.
Quick Facts
| Region | West Central Florida |
| Top Commodities | Fruit & tree nuts, Berries, Vegetables, Floriculture, Cattle & calves, Horses |
| Farms & Ranches | ~380 (approx.) |
| Agricultural Land | ~200,000 acres |
| Average Farm Size | ~101 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 "Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough County Operations
Based on Hillsborough County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs emphasize nutrient management and water quality protection for intensive strawberry and vegetable production. Beginning farmer initiatives help new operators access expensive land near urban markets.
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 Hillsborough County's specific LWG priorities yet.
Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Hillsborough County?"
Your Next Steps in Hillsborough 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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