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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Thomas County
Thomas County is part of the Nebraska Sand Hills land resource region (MLRA 65). The county's mean elevation is about 2,930 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Thomas County sees 24.3 in of rain, a 214-day growing season, a 48.8°F mean annual temperature.
Thomas County carries 19,869 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). 105 farms operate in the county, averaging 4,119 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | North Central Nebraska |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves |
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 Thomas County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
39311 Highway 2, Thedford, NE 69166
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
518 W Highway 20, Valentine, NE 69201
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 Thomas County Operations
Based on Thomas County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Grassland conservation and livestock watering systems receive priority program support in this rangeland county. Programs promote sustainable grazing practices and wildlife habitat enhancement in the Sandhills ecosystem.
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 Thomas County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Blaine County, Nebraska, Cherry County, Nebraska, Hooker County, Nebraska, Logan County, Nebraska, and McPherson County, Nebraska. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Thomas 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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