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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Dare County
Dare County sits within the Tidewater Area (MLRA 153B) region. Elevation averages about 1 feet.
Temperatures in Dare County range from a January mean low of 36°F to a July mean high near 87°F. Annual precipitation averages 51.8 inches.
Dare County ran 18 farms and 115 acres of farmland in the 2022 Census of Agriculture.
Quick Facts
| Region | Outer Banks |
| Top Commodities | Vegetables |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2).
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 Dare County.
NRCS Office (EQIP, CSP, conservation)
155 Airport Rd, Washington, NC 27889
FSA Office (loans, disaster, farm numbers)
155 L A Keiser Drive, Columbia, NC 27925
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 Dare County Operations
Based on Dare County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs focus on sustainable aquaculture development and storm-resistant growing systems. Assistance emphasizes salt-tolerant crops and protective structures for the harsh coastal environment.
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
Bordering Counties
If your operation extends into or you compare conditions against adjacent counties, see Currituck County, North Carolina, Hyde County, North Carolina, and Tyrrell County, North Carolina. Ranking criteria and cost-share rates can vary county by county even within the same state.
Your Next Steps in Dare 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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