Van Buren County, Iowa
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
Rolling hills along the Des Moines River with diverse topography including steep bluffs and fertile bottomlands. The river system creates scenic landscapes while providing water resources and wildlife habitat throughout the county.
Mixed farming operations adapt to varied terrain with cattle grazing on hillsides and row crop production in valleys. Hay production is important for livestock operations, while some specialty enterprises take advantage of the scenic river valley location.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeast Iowa |
| Top Commodities | Hogs, Corn, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Dairy, Horses |
| Farms & Ranches | ~420 (approx.) |
| Agricultural Land | ~230,000 acres |
| Average Farm Size | ~308 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 "Van Buren 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 Van Buren County Operations
Based on Van Buren County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation efforts focus on Des Moines River water quality protection through riparian buffers and erosion control on steep terrain. Grassland management and wildlife habitat enhancement programs support both livestock operations and conservation goals.
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 Van Buren County's specific LWG priorities yet.
Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Van Buren County?"
Your Next Steps in Van Buren 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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