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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Washington County
Elevation across Washington County averages about 1,293 feet. The county falls within the Iowa and Missouri Deep Loess Hills (MLRA 107) land resource region.
The growing season in Washington County spans roughly 275 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 31.9 inches per year. January lows average around 14°F while July highs reach about 86°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 688 farms in Washington County, operating across 216,575 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 315 acres. Top commodities include corn, soybeans, and cattle.
Quick Facts
| Region | Eastern Nebraska |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Hogs, Poultry, Dairy |
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 Washington County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
1060 Wilbur St, Blair, NE 68008
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 Washington County Operations
Based on Washington County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs emphasize soil health practices and nutrient management in this intensive production area. Water quality protection measures receive priority funding near urban areas and waterways.
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 Washington County: Harrison County, Iowa, Pottawattamie County, Iowa, Burt County, Nebraska, Dodge County, Nebraska, and Douglas County, Nebraska. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Washington 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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