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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Burke County
Elevation across Burke County averages about 2,034 feet. The county falls within the Northern Black Glaciated Plains (MLRA 55A) land resource region.
The growing season in Burke County spans roughly 184 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 17.7 inches per year. January lows average around -1°F while July highs reach about 80°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 422 farms in Burke County, operating across 617,662 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 1,464 acres. Top commodities include wheat, cattle, and soybeans.
Quick Facts
| Region | Northwest |
| Top Commodities | Wheat, Cattle & calves, Soybeans, Barley, Corn, Sheep |
Current Conditions
Drought status: None (None).
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 Burke County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
5 Roosevelt Ave SE, Bowbells, ND 58721
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 Burke County Operations
Based on Burke County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Soil health initiatives focus on managing crop residue and reducing erosion. Conservation programs help maintain agricultural viability amid energy development.
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 Burke County: Divide County, North Dakota, Mountrail County, North Dakota, Renville County, North Dakota, Ward County, North Dakota, and Williams County, North Dakota. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Burke County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the North Dakota guide: North Dakota Farm Programs Guide
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