Dubuque County, Iowa
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
Positioned along the Mississippi River, the county features dramatic limestone bluffs and deep valleys typical of the driftless region. Mines of Spain Recreation Area preserves unique lead mining sites and prairie remnants on steep terrain unsuitable for farming.
Dairy operations have historically been important, though many have consolidated or transitioned to beef cattle. Corn and soybean production concentrates in the valley floors and gentler terrain, while steeper areas remain in permanent pasture.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northeast Iowa |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Cattle & calves, Dairy, Hogs, Soybeans, Poultry |
| Farms & Ranches | ~450 (approx.) |
| Agricultural Land | ~320,000 acres |
| Average Farm Size | ~205 acres |
Find Your Local USDA Offices
Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.
Find your Service Center:
Search for "Dubuque 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 Dubuque County Operations
Based on Dubuque County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Mississippi River watershed protection drives many conservation initiatives, particularly buffer strips and erosion control. Urban proximity programs help beginning farmers access land and markets in the Dubuque metropolitan area.
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 Dubuque County's specific LWG priorities yet.
Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Dubuque County?"
Your Next Steps in Dubuque County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Iowa guide: Iowa Farm Programs Guide
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