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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Newton County
Newton County lies in the Gulf Coastal Plain (MLRA 133C) region. Elevation averages about 475 feet.
Newton County averages 58.5 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). Annual mean temperature is 63.9°F.
Newton County's agricultural base centers on cattle, soybeans, and tomatoes. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 501 farms working 91,201 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 15,748 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | East Central Mississippi |
| Top Commodities | Poultry, Cattle & calves, Soybeans, Vegetables, Horses, Fruit & tree nuts |
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 Newton County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
76 Little Rock/Decatur Rd, Decatur, MS 39327
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 Newton County Operations
Based on Newton County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs emphasize forest management and pasture improvement practices. EQIP funding supports livestock watering systems and fencing projects.
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 Newton County
Newton County shares borders with Clarke County, Mississippi, Jasper County, Mississippi, Kemper County, Mississippi, Lauderdale County, Mississippi, Leake County, Mississippi, and Neshoba County, Mississippi. 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 Newton County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Mississippi guide: Mississippi Farm Programs Guide
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