Craven County, North Carolina

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

Low-lying coastal plain with the Neuse River flowing through the county toward Pamlico Sound. Fertile river bottomlands contrast with sandy soils on higher ground near New Bern.

Large-scale row crop operations produce corn, soybeans, and cotton on the rich alluvial soils. Sweet potato production and specialty vegetable crops take advantage of the mild coastal climate.

Quick Facts


Region	Coastal Plain
Top Commodities	Hogs, Soybeans, Corn, Cotton, Tobacco, Vegetables
Farms & Ranches	~290 (approx.)
Agricultural Land	~100,000 acres
Average Farm Size	~345 acres

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

Find your Service Center:

→ USDA Service Center Locator

Search for "Craven County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.

What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.

Programs for Craven County Operations

Based on Craven County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

Controlled drainage systems manage water levels in poorly drained fields while reducing nutrient runoff. Cover crop adoption improves soil health and reduces erosion on row crop operations.

Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.

Local Conservation Priorities

EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.

We don't have Craven County's specific LWG priorities yet.

Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Craven County?"

Your Next Steps in Craven County

Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
Read the North Carolina guide: North Carolina Farm Programs Guide

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