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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Oregon County
Oregon County is part of the Ozark Highland land resource region (MLRA 116A). The county's mean elevation is about 803 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Oregon County sees 48.7 in of rain, a 303-day growing season, a 57.2°F mean annual temperature.
Oregon County carries 44,231 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 134,272 acres. 678 farms operate in the county, averaging 402 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | South Central Missouri |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Poultry, Dairy, Horses, Goats, Vegetables |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Exceptional Drought (D4). LFP-eligible for 31+ weeks — check FSA for livestock forage assistance.
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 Oregon County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
18078 Us 160, Alton, MO 65606
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 Oregon County Operations
Based on Oregon County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Forest stewardship and grazing management programs help landowners balance timber and livestock production on challenging terrain. Stream protection practices maintain water quality in the Eleven Point River and other scenic waterways.
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
Nearby Counties
Operators in Oregon County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Fulton County, Arkansas, Randolph County, Arkansas, Sharp County, Arkansas, Carter County, Missouri, Howell County, Missouri, and Ripley County, Missouri. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Oregon 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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