Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Union County
Union County is part of the Atlantic Coast Flatwoods land resource region (MLRA 153A). The county's mean elevation is about 130 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Union County sees 52.1 in of rain, a 69.0°F mean annual temperature.
Union County carries 2,567 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 14,967 acres. 329 farms operate in the county, averaging 114 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | North Florida |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Vegetables, Fruit & tree nuts, Berries, Soybeans, Floriculture |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Exceptional Drought (D4). LFP-eligible for 15+ 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 Union County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
5709 NW 13th St, Gainesville, FL 32653
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
2304 SW Main Blvd Ste 103, Lake City, FL 32025
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 Union County Operations
Based on Union County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
EQIP supports livestock facility improvements and pasture management systems. CSP promotes sustainable forestry practices and wildlife habitat conservation on working lands.
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 Union County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Alachua County, Florida, Baker County, Florida, Bradford County, Florida, and Columbia County, Florida. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Union 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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