Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Golden Valley County
Golden Valley County is part of the Northern Rolling High Plains, Northern Part land resource region (MLRA 58A). The county's mean elevation is about 3,985 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Golden Valley County sees 15.1 in of rain, a 214-day growing season, a 44.6°F mean annual temperature.
Golden Valley County carries 8,617 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 580,234 acres. 153 farms operate in the county, averaging 4,817 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | South-Central Montana |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Wheat, Sheep, Barley, Goats |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2).
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 Golden Valley County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
747 Main Street, Roundup, MT 59072
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
201 1st St N, Ryegate, MT 59074
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 Golden Valley County Operations
Based on Golden Valley County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Rangeland improvement and soil conservation are prioritized in this primarily grazing-based agricultural economy. Programs focus on sustainable grazing systems and helping smaller operations maintain viability in the challenging semi-arid environment.
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 Golden Valley County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Fergus County, Montana, Musselshell County, Montana, Stillwater County, Montana, Sweet Grass County, Montana, Wheatland County, Montana, and Yellowstone County, Montana. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Golden Valley County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Montana guide: Montana Farm Programs Guide
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