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Des Moines County, Iowa

Farm Programs & Local Resources

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

Located along the Mississippi River, this county features fertile river bottomlands and bluffs rising above the floodplain. The Skunk River confluence with the Mississippi creates additional rich alluvial soils throughout the eastern portion.

High-quality soils support intensive corn and soybean production, with yields often exceeding state averages. Vegetable production for processing, including sweet corn and tomatoes, takes advantage of the fertile bottomland and proximity to markets.

Quick Facts
RegionSoutheast Iowa
Top CommoditiesCorn, Soybeans, Hogs, Cattle & calves, Fruit & tree nuts, Floriculture
Farms & Ranches~290 (approx.)
Agricultural Land~150,000 acres
Average Farm Size~230 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 "Des Moines 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 Des Moines County Operations

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

Floodplain management and wetland restoration projects focus on the Mississippi River corridor. Specialty crop producers receive support for irrigation systems and soil health improvements.

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 Des Moines County's specific LWG priorities yet.

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

Your Next Steps in Des Moines County

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

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