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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Surry County
Elevation across Surry County averages about 1,096 feet. The county falls within the Southern Piedmont (MLRA 136) land resource region.
The growing season in Surry County spans roughly 334 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 50.4 inches per year. January lows average around 27°F while July highs reach about 87°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 933 farms in Surry County, operating across 105,791 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 113 acres. Top commodities include hogs, soybeans, and corn.
Quick Facts
| Region | Foothills |
| Top Commodities | Poultry, Hogs, Soybeans, Corn, Tobacco, Cattle & calves |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 14+ weeks — check FSA for livestock forage assistance.
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 Surry County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
915 East Atkins St, Dobson, NC 27017
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 Surry County Operations
Based on Surry County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Vineyard development and specialty crop diversification provide alternatives to traditional tobacco farming. Conservation practices focus on soil erosion control on sloping fields and stream protection in the Yadkin River watershed.
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 Surry County: Alleghany County, North Carolina, Forsyth County, North Carolina, Stokes County, North Carolina, Wilkes County, North Carolina, Yadkin County, North Carolina, and Carroll County, Virginia. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Surry 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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