← Kentucky Farm Programs Guide
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Jackson County
Jackson County is part of the Cumberland Plateau and Mountains land resource region (MLRA 125). The county's mean elevation is about 1,189 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Jackson County sees 51.2 in of rain, a 306-day growing season, a 55.2°F mean annual temperature.
Jackson County carries 3,994 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 20,778 acres. 460 farms operate in the county, averaging 169 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Eastern Kentucky |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Fruit & tree nuts, Berries, Poultry, Horses, 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 Jackson County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
1024 Ival James Blvd, Richmond, KY 40475
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
100 Fortress Properties Ste 1, London, KY 40741
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 Jackson County Operations
Based on Jackson County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Steep slope management and erosion control are critical conservation priorities in this mountainous terrain. Small farm programs support diversified operations and help beginning farmers establish sustainable enterprises.
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
Nearby Counties
Operators in Jackson County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Clay County, Kentucky, Estill County, Kentucky, Laurel County, Kentucky, Lee County, Kentucky, Madison County, Kentucky, and Owsley County, Kentucky. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Jackson County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Kentucky guide: Kentucky Farm Programs Guide
Part of Farmer's Navigator. Built by ranchers. Every guide on this site is free.