Kalkaska County, Michigan

Farm Programs & Local Resources

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

Rolling hills with predominantly sandy soils and extensive forest cover throughout the region. The Boardman River headwaters and numerous small lakes create a landscape transitional between agriculture and forestry.

Limited agriculture focuses on hay production, small livestock operations, and Christmas tree farming on sandy soils. Potato cultivation and market gardening serve local and regional markets in northern Michigan.

Quick Facts


Region	Northwestern Lower Michigan
Top Commodities	Vegetables, Wheat, Cattle & calves, Corn, Fruit & tree nuts, Maple syrup
Farms & Ranches	~220 (approx.)
Agricultural Land	~25,000 acres
Average Farm Size	~138 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 "Kalkaska 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 Kalkaska County Operations

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

Conservation programs focus on erosion control and soil building on sandy soils through cover crops and organic matter additions. Technical assistance emphasizes efficient irrigation systems and sustainable forest management practices.

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 Kalkaska County's specific LWG priorities yet.

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

Your Next Steps in Kalkaska County

Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
Read the Michigan guide: Michigan Farm Programs Guide

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