Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Ohio County
Ohio County lies in the Kentucky Bluegrass (MLRA 121) region. Elevation averages about 746 feet.
Ohio County averages 46.9 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 275 days. Annual mean temperature is 54.6°F.
Ohio County's agricultural base centers on corn, soybeans, and cattle. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 123 farms working 16,420 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 646 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeast Indiana |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Goats, Sheep |
Current Conditions
Drought status: None (None).
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 Ohio County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
10729 Randall Ave, Aurora, IN 47001
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 Ohio County Operations
Based on Ohio County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Erosion control on steep slopes is the primary conservation challenge requiring terraces and grassed waterways. Diversification assistance helps farmers transition from tobacco to alternative enterprises.
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
Counties Bordering Ohio County
Ohio County shares borders with Dearborn County, Indiana, Ripley County, Indiana, Switzerland County, Indiana, and Boone County, Kentucky. Conservation priorities, EQIP ranking pools, and drought conditions often overlap across county lines — it's worth checking neighboring county pages if your operation spans multiple jurisdictions.
Your Next Steps in Ohio County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Indiana guide: Indiana Farm Programs Guide
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