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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Union County
Elevation across Union County averages about 66 feet. The county falls within the New England and Eastern New York Upland, Southern Part (MLRA 144A) land resource region.
The growing season in Union County spans roughly 306 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 48.2 inches per year. January lows average around 24°F while July highs reach about 87°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 15 farms in Union County, operating across 139 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 9 acres.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northeast New Jersey |
| Top Commodities | Nursery crops, Vegetables, Hay |
Current Conditions
Drought status: None (None).
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor · Updated 2026-09-08
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 Union County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
687 Pittstown Rd Ste 2, Frenchtown, NJ 08825
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.
Forage and Grazing in Union County
The forage year in Union County runs from green-up in April to peak growth in July (2021–2025 satellite average). The county runs 22 head of cattle. Confirm your official normal grazing period with FSA — it governs which drought weeks can count toward LFP.
Farm Structure in Union County
About 7% of Union County producers are 65 or older. Roughly 88% of farms here are small operations. The average farm runs 9 acres.
Programs for Union County Operations
Based on Union County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs focus on urban agriculture development and supporting small-scale farming operations serving local communities. Community garden initiatives and food access programs receive priority in this densely populated suburban county.
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 Union County: Essex County, New Jersey, Hudson County, New Jersey, Middlesex County, New Jersey, Morris County, New Jersey, Somerset County, New Jersey, and Richmond County, New York. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Union County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the New Jersey guide: New Jersey Farm Programs Guide
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