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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Thurston County
Elevation across Thurston County averages about 1,365 feet. The county falls within the Loess Uplands (MLRA 102C) land resource region.
The growing season in Thurston County spans roughly 214 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 29.7 inches per year. January lows average around 12°F while July highs reach about 85°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 238 farms in Thurston County, operating across 155,821 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 655 acres. Top commodities include cattle, corn, and soybeans.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northeast Nebraska |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Corn, Soybeans, Barley, Berries |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Moderate Drought (D1) — watch for worsening; LFP not currently triggered.
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 Thurston County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
106 South Costello, Walthill, NE 68067
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 Thurston County Operations
Based on Thurston County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs support tribal agricultural development and beginning farmer opportunities within the reservation areas. Conservation practices focus on soil erosion control and sustainable grazing management.
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
Adjacent Counties
Counties bordering Thurston County: Monona County, Iowa, Woodbury County, Iowa, Burt County, Nebraska, Cuming County, Nebraska, Dakota County, Nebraska, and Dixon County, Nebraska. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Thurston 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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