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Dukes County, Massachusetts

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

Comprises Martha's Vineyard island with diverse landscapes including coastal plains, rolling hills, and extensive shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean. The island features sandy soils, freshwater ponds, and salt marshes characteristic of glacial island formation.

Agriculture is limited by land availability and focuses on high-value specialty crops, shellfish aquaculture, and small-scale livestock operations. Many farms emphasize direct sales to restaurants and farmers markets, capitalizing on the island's affluent seasonal population.

Quick Facts
RegionMartha's Vineyard
Top CommoditiesVegetables, Poultry, Sheep, Hogs, Goats
Farms & Ranches~35 (approx.)
Agricultural Land~6,400 acres
Average Farm Size~97 acres

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

Find your Service Center:

→ USDA Service Center Locator

Search for "Dukes County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.

What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.

Programs for Dukes County Operations

Based on Dukes County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

Programs focus on protecting groundwater quality and managing soil erosion in the island's sandy soils. Special attention to supporting small-scale, high-value agricultural enterprises that serve the local tourism economy.

Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.

Local Conservation Priorities

EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.

We don't have Dukes County's specific LWG priorities yet.

Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Dukes County?"

Your Next Steps in Dukes County

  1. Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
  2. Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
  3. Read the Massachusetts guide: Massachusetts Farm Programs Guide

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