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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Howard County
Elevation across Howard County averages about 391 feet. The county falls within the Northern Piedmont (MLRA 148) land resource region.
The growing season in Howard County spans roughly 306 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 46.1 inches per year. January lows average around 24°F while July highs reach about 87°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 345 farms in Howard County, operating across 37,639 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 109 acres. Top commodities include corn, soybeans, and milk.
Quick Facts
| Region | Central Maryland |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Soybeans, Fruit & tree nuts, Dairy, Cattle & calves, Wheat |
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 Howard County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
14735 Frederick Road, Cooksville, MD 21723
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
18410 Muncaster Rd, Derwood, MD 20855
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 Howard County Operations
Based on Howard County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs focus on preserving remaining agricultural land and supporting high-value enterprises near urban markets. Water quality protection targets the Patapsco River and Chesapeake Bay tributaries.
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 Howard County: Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Baltimore County, Maryland, Carroll County, Maryland, Frederick County, Maryland, Montgomery County, Maryland, and Prince George's County, Maryland. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Howard 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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