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Mercer County, Illinois

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

Level to gently rolling prairie drained by the Edwards River and other tributaries. Rich, deep soils formed from glacial deposits create excellent growing conditions.

Corn and soybean production dominates with high yields and efficient operations. Some livestock enterprises complement crop production on family farms.

Quick Facts
RegionNorthwestern Illinois
Top CommoditiesCorn, Hogs, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Sheep, Wheat
Farms & Ranches~390 (approx.)
Agricultural Land~250,000 acres
Average Farm Size~364 acres

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

Find your Service Center:

→ USDA Service Center Locator

Search for "Mercer 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 Mercer County Operations

Based on Mercer County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

Programs focus on maintaining soil productivity through cover crops and nutrient management. Water quality initiatives protect streams flowing to the Mississippi River.

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 Mercer County's specific LWG priorities yet.

Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Mercer County?"

Your Next Steps in Mercer County

  1. Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
  2. Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
  3. Read the Illinois guide: Illinois Farm Programs Guide

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