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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Oscoda County
Oscoda County is part of the Northern Michigan Sandy Highlands land resource region (MLRA 94A). The county's mean elevation is about 1,032 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Oscoda County sees 30.7 in of rain, a 214-day growing season, a 43.8°F mean annual temperature.
Oscoda County carries 2,494 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 1,716 acres. 142 farms operate in the county, averaging 94 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northern Lower Peninsula |
| Top Commodities | Dairy, Cattle & calves, Horses, Corn, Maple syrup, Sheep |
Current Conditions
Drought status: None (None).
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 Oscoda County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
240 W Wright St, West Branch, MI 48661
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 Oscoda County Operations
Based on Oscoda County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs primarily support forest management and wildlife habitat improvement rather than traditional agriculture. Limited farming operations focus on sustainable practices compatible with forest ecosystem preservation.
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
Nearby Counties
Operators in Oscoda County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Alcona County, Michigan, Alpena County, Michigan, Crawford County, Michigan, Iosco County, Michigan, Montmorency County, Michigan, and Ogemaw County, Michigan. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Oscoda 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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