Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Stafford County
Stafford County lies in the Great Bend Sand Plains (MLRA 79) region. Elevation averages about 1,886 feet.
Stafford County averages 27.2 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 275 days. Annual mean temperature is 55.6°F.
Stafford County's agricultural base centers on cattle, corn, and wheat. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 489 farms working 405,396 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 26,338 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Central Kansas |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Corn, Wheat, Soybeans, Grain sorghum, Vegetables |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Moderate Drought (D1) — watch for worsening; LFP not currently triggered.
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 Stafford County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
804 E 1st Ave, St John, KS 67576
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 Stafford County Operations
Based on Stafford County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
CREP enrollment is significant around Quivira refuge with emphasis on wetland and grassland habitat protection. EQIP supports irrigation efficiency and wildlife-friendly farming practices.
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 Stafford County
Stafford County shares borders with Barton County, Kansas, Edwards County, Kansas, Pawnee County, Kansas, Pratt County, Kansas, Reno County, Kansas, and Rice County, Kansas. 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 Stafford 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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