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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Onslow County
Onslow County is part of the Atlantic Coast Flatwoods land resource region (MLRA 153A). The county's mean elevation is about 41 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Onslow County sees 57.1 in of rain, a 62.5°F mean annual temperature.
Onslow County carries 1,042 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 2,141 acres. 342 farms operate in the county, averaging 155 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Coastal Plain |
| Top Commodities | Poultry, Hogs, Soybeans, Cotton, Corn, 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 Onslow County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
4026 Richlands Hwy, Jacksonville, NC 28540
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 Onslow County Operations
Based on Onslow County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs protect water quality in coastal watersheds while supporting traditional farming practices. Wetland restoration initiatives help maintain critical habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wildlife.
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
Nearby Counties
Operators in Onslow County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Carteret County, North Carolina, Duplin County, North Carolina, Jones County, North Carolina, and Pender County, North Carolina. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Onslow 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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