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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Butler County
Butler County is part of the Central Loess Plains land resource region (MLRA 75). The county's mean elevation is about 1,607 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Butler County sees 29.6 in of rain, a 245-day growing season, a 50.5°F mean annual temperature.
Butler County carries 17,345 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 29,586 acres. 718 farms operate in the county, averaging 500 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | East Central Nebraska |
| Top Commodities | Poultry, Corn, Cattle & calves, Soybeans, Grain sorghum, Sheep |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 4+ 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 Butler County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
317 E St, David City, NE 68632
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 Butler County Operations
Based on Butler County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Soil conservation practices focus on controlling erosion on sloping fields and protecting stream corridors. Integrated pest management programs support sustainable crop production and pollinator habitat.
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 Butler County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Colfax County, Nebraska, Dodge County, Nebraska, Lancaster County, Nebraska, Platte County, Nebraska, Polk County, Nebraska, and Saunders County, Nebraska. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Butler County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Nebraska guide: Nebraska Farm Programs Guide
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