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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Mercer County
Mercer County is part of the Kentucky Bluegrass land resource region (MLRA 121). The county's mean elevation is about 839 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Mercer County sees 49.8 in of rain, a 306-day growing season, a 55.8°F mean annual temperature.
Mercer County carries 12,852 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 50,746 acres. 978 farms operate in the county, averaging 145 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Central Kentucky |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Soybeans, Corn, Horses, Wheat, Tobacco |
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 Mercer County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
225 Morris Dr, Harrodsburg, KY 40330
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 Mercer County Operations
Based on Mercer County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Pasture management practices focus on maintaining the high-quality forage needed for horses and premium beef operations. Nutrient management plans help optimize soil fertility while protecting the limestone springs and creeks that define the region.
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 Mercer County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Anderson County, Kentucky, Boyle County, Kentucky, Garrard County, Kentucky, Jessamine County, Kentucky, Washington County, Kentucky, and Woodford County, Kentucky. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Mercer 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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