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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Clay County
Elevation across Clay County averages about 1,097 feet. The county falls within the Cumberland Plateau and Mountains (MLRA 125) land resource region.
The growing season in Clay County spans roughly 334 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 52.2 inches per year. January lows average around 25°F while July highs reach about 86°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 178 farms in Clay County, operating across 38,581 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 217 acres. Top commodities include cattle, equine, and equine.
Quick Facts
| Region | Eastern Kentucky |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Vegetables, Horses, Poultry, Sheep, Fruit & tree nuts |
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 Clay County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
100 Fortress Properties Ste 1, London, KY 40741
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
34 Spring Ave, Barbourville, KY 40906
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 Clay County Operations
Based on Clay County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
EQIP funding prioritizes pasture improvement and erosion control on steep slopes. Conservation programs focus on protecting water quality in headwater streams through riparian buffers and proper grazing management.
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 Clay County: Bell County, Kentucky, Jackson County, Kentucky, Knox County, Kentucky, Laurel County, Kentucky, Leslie County, Kentucky, and Owsley County, Kentucky. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Clay County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Kentucky guide: Kentucky Farm Programs Guide
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