← Missouri Farm Programs Guide

Phelps County, Missouri

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

Ozark highlands with rolling hills, oak-hickory forests, and spring-fed streams throughout the region. The Gasconade River provides primary drainage, winding through valleys between the forested ridges.

Cattle ranching dominates the agricultural sector, utilizing native grass pastures and hay meadows in the valleys. Limited row crop production occurs on the better soils, with most farming focused on supporting livestock operations.


Quick Facts

RegionSouth Central Missouri
Top CommoditiesCattle & calves, Fruit & tree nuts, Dairy, Berries, Horses, Sheep
Farms & Ranches~450 (approx.)
Agricultural Land~170,000 acres
Average Farm Size~233 acres

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

Find your Service Center:

→ USDA Service Center Locator

Search for "Phelps County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.

What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.


Programs for Phelps County Operations

Based on Phelps County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

Forest management and wildlife habitat enhancement are major conservation priorities in this heavily wooded region. Grazing management practices help maintain productive pastures while protecting stream quality.

Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.


Local Conservation Priorities

EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.

We don't have Phelps County's specific LWG priorities yet.

Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Phelps County?"


Your Next Steps in Phelps County

  1. Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
  2. Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
  3. Read the Missouri guide: Missouri Farm Programs Guide

Part of Farmer's Navigator. Built by ranchers. Free for everyone.