Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Charlton County
Charlton County is part of the Atlantic Coast Flatwoods land resource region (MLRA 153A). The county's mean elevation is about 124 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Charlton County sees 50.4 in of rain, a 68.2°F mean annual temperature.
Charlton County carries 605 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 1,874 acres. 85 farms operate in the county, averaging 228 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeast Georgia |
| Top Commodities | Honey, Cattle & calves, Berries, Horses |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Exceptional Drought (D4). LFP-eligible for 26+ 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 Charlton County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
705 College Avenue, Blackshear, GA 31516
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 Charlton County Operations
Based on Charlton County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Wetland conservation programs protect sensitive Okefenokee ecosystem while supporting compatible agricultural and forestry uses. Livestock assistance addresses unique challenges of grazing in areas with high water tables and periodic flooding.
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 Charlton County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Baker County, Florida, Nassau County, Florida, Brantley County, Georgia, Camden County, Georgia, and Ware County, Georgia. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Charlton County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Georgia guide: Georgia Farm Programs Guide
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