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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Roscommon County
Roscommon County lies in the Northern Michigan Sandy Highlands (MLRA 94A) region. Elevation averages about 1,159 feet.
Roscommon County averages 32.9 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 214 days. Annual mean temperature is 44.4°F.
Roscommon County's agricultural base centers on cattle. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 34 farms working 4,107 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 104 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northern Lower Peninsula |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Vegetables, Poultry |
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 Roscommon County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
810 S. Otsego Rd., Gaylord, MI 49735
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
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 Roscommon County Operations
Based on Roscommon County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs emphasize forest management and wildlife habitat rather than traditional agricultural practices. Limited farming operations focus on sustainable methods compatible with extensive forest ecosystems.
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
Counties Bordering Roscommon County
Roscommon County shares borders with Clare County, Michigan, Crawford County, Michigan, Gladwin County, Michigan, Kalkaska County, Michigan, Missaukee County, Michigan, and Ogemaw County, Michigan. Conservation priorities, EQIP ranking pools, and drought conditions often overlap across county lines — it's worth checking neighboring county pages if your operation spans multiple jurisdictions.
Your Next Steps in Roscommon 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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