← Minnesota Farm Programs Guide
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Murray County
Elevation across Murray County averages about 1,578 feet. The county falls within the Central Iowa and Minnesota Till Prairies (MLRA 103) land resource region.
The growing season in Murray County spans roughly 214 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 29.8 inches per year. January lows average around 6°F while July highs reach about 82°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 789 farms in Murray County, operating across 351,476 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 445 acres. Top commodities include corn, hogs, and soybeans.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southwest |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Hogs, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Dairy, Sheep |
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 Murray County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
2740 22nd St, Slayton, MN 56172
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 Murray County Operations
Based on Murray County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs focus on soil health practices and water quality protection near Lake Shetek. Drainage management and cover crops are prioritized to reduce nutrient runoff.
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
Adjacent Counties
Counties bordering Murray County: Cottonwood County, Minnesota, Lyon County, Minnesota, Nobles County, Minnesota, Pipestone County, Minnesota, Redwood County, Minnesota, and Rock County, Minnesota. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Murray County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Minnesota guide: Minnesota Farm Programs Guide
Part of Farmer's Navigator. Built by ranchers. Every guide on this site is free.