Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Hill County
Hill County lies in the Brown Glaciated Plains (MLRA 52) region. Elevation averages about 2,720 feet.
Hill County averages 12.8 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 214 days. Annual mean temperature is 41.9°F.
Hill County's agricultural base centers on wheat, cattle, and hogs. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 701 farms working 1,854,358 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 14,356 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | North-Central Montana |
| Top Commodities | Wheat, Cattle & calves, Hogs, Barley, Poultry, Corn |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Extreme Drought (D3). LFP-eligible for 23+ 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 Hill County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
93 Mack Road, Box Elder, MT 59521
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
206 25th Ave W, Havre, MT 59501
This county also has 1 additional NRCS office. View all offices
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 Hill County Operations
Based on Hill County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Irrigation efficiency improvements along the Milk River and soil conservation on dryland areas are primary program focuses. Conservation efforts emphasize sustainable farming practices that maintain productivity while protecting soil and water resources in the 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
Counties Bordering Hill County
Hill County shares borders with Blaine County, Montana, Chouteau County, Montana, and Liberty County, Montana. 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 Hill 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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