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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Delaware County
Elevation across Delaware County averages about 228 feet. The county falls within the Northern Piedmont (MLRA 148) land resource region.
The growing season in Delaware County spans roughly 306 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 47.0 inches per year. January lows average around 25°F while July highs reach about 87°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 54 farms in Delaware County, operating across 858 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 16 acres. Top commodities include cut christmas trees, cut christmas trees & short term woody trees, and honey.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeastern Pennsylvania |
| Top Commodities | Honey |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Moderate Drought (D1) — watch for worsening; LFP not currently triggered.
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 Delaware County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
525 Highlands Blvd, Suite 106, Coatesville, PA 19320
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 Delaware County Operations
Based on Delaware County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Limited programs focus on urban agriculture development and maintaining viability of remaining agricultural operations. Conservation efforts emphasize sustainable practices for small farms in suburban interface areas.
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 Delaware County: New Castle County, Delaware, Gloucester County, New Jersey, Chester County, Pennsylvania, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, and Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Delaware County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Pennsylvania guide: Pennsylvania Farm Programs Guide
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