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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Benton County
Elevation across Benton County averages about 772 feet. The county falls within the Ozark Highland (MLRA 116A) land resource region.
The growing season in Benton County spans roughly 275 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 43.0 inches per year. January lows average around 22°F while July highs reach about 89°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 720 farms in Benton County, operating across 198,779 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 276 acres. Top commodities include cattle, corn, and soybeans.
Quick Facts
| Region | West Central Missouri |
| Top Commodities | Poultry, Cattle & calves, Corn, Soybeans, Dairy, Vegetables |
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 Benton County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
535 North Hwy 65, Lincoln, MO 65338
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 Benton County Operations
Based on Benton County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs emphasize erosion control and water quality protection around Truman Lake. Technical assistance supports pasture improvement and rotational grazing near the reservoir.
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 Benton County: Camden County, Missouri, Henry County, Missouri, Hickory County, Missouri, Morgan County, Missouri, Pettis County, Missouri, and St. Clair County, Missouri. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Benton County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Missouri guide: Missouri Farm Programs Guide
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