Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Pinellas County
Pinellas County is part of the Southern Florida Flatwoods land resource region (MLRA 155). The county's mean elevation is about 68 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Pinellas County sees 52.7 in of rain, a 73.4°F mean annual temperature.
Pinellas County carries 56 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). 115 farms operate in the county, averaging 33 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Central West Florida |
| Top Commodities | Fruit & tree nuts, Berries, Floriculture, Vegetables, Honey, Poultry |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Extreme Drought (D3). LFP-eligible for 19+ 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 Pinellas County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
201 S Collins St Ste 201, Plant City, FL 33563
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 Pinellas County Operations
Based on Pinellas County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
EQIP focuses on urban agriculture improvements and water conservation systems. Beginning Farmer programs support new urban agricultural enterprises and sustainable production methods.
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 Pinellas County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Hillsborough County, Florida and Pasco County, Florida. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Pinellas 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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