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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Calvert County
Elevation across Calvert County averages about 138 feet. The county falls within the Northern Coastal Plain (MLRA 149A) land resource region.
The growing season in Calvert County spans roughly 334 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 45.7 inches per year. January lows average around 27°F while July highs reach about 87°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 285 farms in Calvert County, operating across 24,654 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 87 acres. Top commodities include corn, soybeans, and wheat.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southern Maryland |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Soybeans, Poultry, Wheat, Vegetables, 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 Calvert County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
489 Main Street, Suite 101, Prince Frederick, MD 20678
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
26737 Radio Station Way, Leonardtown, MD 20650
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 Calvert County Operations
Based on Calvert County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs emphasize Chesapeake Bay water quality protection through cover crops and nutrient management plans. Former tobacco producers receive transition assistance for alternative crops.
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 Calvert County: Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Charles County, Maryland, Dorchester County, Maryland, Prince George's County, Maryland, and Talbot County, Maryland. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Calvert County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Maryland guide: Maryland Farm Programs Guide
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