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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Lincoln County
Lincoln County lies in the Prairie Coteau (MLRA 102D) region. Elevation averages about 1,744 feet.
Lincoln County averages 28.4 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 214 days. Annual mean temperature is 43.7°F.
Lincoln County's agricultural base centers on corn, hogs, and soybeans. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 598 farms working 212,420 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 8,488 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southwest Minnesota |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Hogs, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Dairy, Wheat |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Moderate Drought (D1) — watch for worsening; LFP not currently triggered.
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 Lincoln County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
200 South County Highway 5, Ivanhoe, MN 56142
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 Lincoln County Operations
Based on Lincoln County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Soil conservation programs focus on maintaining organic matter and preventing erosion on intensively farmed prairie soils. Water quality initiatives emphasize nutrient management and wetland restoration to protect downstream water resources.
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 Lincoln County
Lincoln County shares borders with Lyon County, Minnesota, Pipestone County, Minnesota, Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota, Brookings County, South Dakota, Deuel County, South Dakota, and Moody County, South Dakota. 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 Lincoln County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Minnesota guide: Minnesota Farm Programs Guide
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