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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Wells County
Wells County is part of the Central Black Glaciated Plains land resource region (MLRA 55B). The county's mean elevation is about 1,661 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Wells County sees 18.5 in of rain, a 214-day growing season, a 40.0°F mean annual temperature.
Wells County carries 5,017 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 66,307 acres. 438 farms operate in the county, averaging 1,655 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | central North Dakota |
| Top Commodities | Soybeans, Corn, Wheat, Cattle & calves, Barley, Honey |
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 Wells County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
202 Vine Ave S, Fessenden, ND 58438
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 Wells County Operations
Based on Wells County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
CRP enrollment targets sensitive wetland areas and highly erodible cropland for grassland establishment. EQIP contracts emphasize no-till adoption and nutrient management practices to protect water quality in the county's numerous prairie potholes.
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 Wells County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Benson County, North Dakota, Eddy County, North Dakota, Foster County, North Dakota, Kidder County, North Dakota, Pierce County, North Dakota, and Sheridan County, North Dakota. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Wells 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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