Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Knox County
Elevation across Knox County averages about 28 feet. The county falls within the New England and Eastern New York Upland, Northern Part (MLRA 144B) land resource region.
The growing season in Knox County spans roughly 244 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 49.7 inches per year. January lows average around 13°F while July highs reach about 76°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 271 farms in Knox County, operating across 24,233 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 89 acres. Top commodities include mushrooms, cattle, and hogs.
Quick Facts
| Region | Mid-Coast Maine |
| Top Commodities | Fruit & tree nuts, Berries, Poultry, Cattle & calves, Hogs, Vegetables |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 34+ weeks — check FSA for livestock forage assistance.
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 Knox County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
46 Little River Drive, Belfast, ME 04915
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
2305 North Belfast Avenue, Augusta, ME 04330
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 Knox County Operations
Based on Knox County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Beginning farmer programs support new enterprises focused on sustainable agriculture and local food systems. CREP initiatives protect coastal water quality through buffer strips and erosion control on agricultural lands.
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 Knox County: Hancock County, Maine, Lincoln County, Maine, and Waldo County, Maine. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Knox County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Maine guide: Maine Farm Programs Guide
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