Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Thomas County
Elevation across Thomas County averages about 3,206 feet. The county falls within the Central High Tableland (MLRA 72) land resource region.
The growing season in Thomas County spans roughly 214 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 20.4 inches per year. January lows average around 17°F while July highs reach about 91°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 454 farms in Thomas County, operating across 615,525 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 1,356 acres. Top commodities include corn, wheat, and sorghum.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northwest Kansas |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Wheat, Grain sorghum, Soybeans, Horses, Goats |
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 Thomas County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
915 E Walnut St, Colby, KS 67701
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 Thomas County Operations
Based on Thomas County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
EQIP prioritizes irrigation efficiency and soil health practices in the semi-arid farming environment. CRP targets marginal dryland areas for conversion to wildlife habitat and soil conservation.
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 Thomas County: Decatur County, Kansas, Gove County, Kansas, Logan County, Kansas, Rawlins County, Kansas, Sheridan County, Kansas, and Sherman County, Kansas. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Thomas 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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