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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Ward County
Elevation across Ward County averages about 1,964 feet. The county falls within the Northern Black Glaciated Plains (MLRA 55A) land resource region.
The growing season in Ward County spans roughly 214 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 17.6 inches per year. January lows average around 2°F while July highs reach about 81°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 634 farms in Ward County, operating across 1,014,320 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 1,600 acres. Top commodities include wheat, soybeans, and corn.
Quick Facts
| Region | north-central North Dakota |
| Top Commodities | Wheat, Soybeans, Corn, Barley, Cattle & calves, Vegetables |
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 Ward County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
1920 13th St SE, Minot, ND 58701
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 Ward County Operations
Based on Ward County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
EQIP funding focuses heavily on wetland restoration and wildlife habitat enhancement given the county's abundant pothole regions. CSP enrollment emphasizes soil health practices and pollinator habitat establishment in conjunction with the area's diverse cropping systems.
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 Ward County: Burke County, North Dakota, McHenry County, North Dakota, McLean County, North Dakota, Mountrail County, North Dakota, and Renville County, North Dakota. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Ward 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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