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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Foster County
Elevation across Foster County averages about 1,544 feet. The county falls within the Central Black Glaciated Plains (MLRA 55B) land resource region.
The growing season in Foster County spans roughly 214 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 19.6 inches per year. January lows average around -1°F while July highs reach about 81°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 235 farms in Foster County, operating across 362,426 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 1,542 acres. Top commodities include soybeans, corn, and wheat.
Quick Facts
| Region | Central |
| Top Commodities | Soybeans, Corn, Wheat, Cattle & calves, Honey, Barley |
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 Foster County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
6720 Highway 200, Carrington, ND 58421
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 Foster County Operations
Based on Foster County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs focus on protecting the James River watershed and maintaining wetland functions. Soil health practices emphasize crop rotation diversity.
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 Foster County: Eddy County, North Dakota, Griggs County, North Dakota, Stutsman County, North Dakota, and Wells County, North Dakota. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Foster 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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