Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Elk County
Elevation across Elk County averages about 995 feet. The county falls within the Bluestem Hills (MLRA 76) land resource region.
The growing season in Elk County spans roughly 275 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 39.8 inches per year. January lows average around 22°F while July highs reach about 90°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 255 farms in Elk County, operating across 246,966 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 968 acres. Top commodities include cattle, soybeans, and corn.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeast Kansas |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Soybeans, Corn, Wheat, Goats, Sheep |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 6+ weeks — check FSA for livestock forage assistance.
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 Elk County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
131 N Wabash, Howard, KS 67349
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
1819 E River St, Eureka, KS 67045
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 Elk County Operations
Based on Elk County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Grassland management programs support prescribed burning schedules and native species restoration for improved cattle grazing. Water quality initiatives around Elk City Lake emphasize riparian protection and erosion control.
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
Adjacent Counties
Counties bordering Elk County: Butler County, Kansas, Chautauqua County, Kansas, Cowley County, Kansas, Greenwood County, Kansas, Montgomery County, Kansas, and Wilson County, Kansas. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Elk County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Kansas guide: Kansas Farm Programs Guide
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