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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Wexford County
Wexford County lies in the Northern Michigan Sandy Highlands (MLRA 94A) region. Elevation averages about 1,427 feet.
Wexford County averages 35.5 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 244 days. Annual mean temperature is 44.5°F.
Wexford County's agricultural base centers on milk, corn, and cattle. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 284 farms working 42,619 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 1,638 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northern Michigan |
| Top Commodities | Dairy, Corn, Cattle & calves, Poultry, Horses, Maple syrup |
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 Wexford County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
7192 E 34 Rd, Cadillac, MI 49601
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 Wexford County Operations
Based on Wexford County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Forest management and grazing systems integration are key conservation priorities on the mixed agricultural landscape. Livestock producers utilize rotational grazing and pasture improvement programs to maximize forage production on marginal soils.
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 Wexford County
Wexford County shares borders with Benzie County, Michigan, Grand Traverse County, Michigan, Kalkaska County, Michigan, Lake County, Michigan, Manistee County, Michigan, and Missaukee 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 Wexford 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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