Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

Rich limestone soils of the Lancaster Plain stretch across the eastern portion, while the Susquehanna River forms the western border with its associated terraces and hills. This fertile agricultural heartland includes some of Pennsylvania's most productive farmland.

Intensive agriculture dominates with high-value crop production, dairy operations, and significant livestock sectors including poultry and swine. Amish and Mennonite farming communities maintain traditional practices alongside modern commercial agriculture.

Quick Facts


Region	Southeastern Pennsylvania
Top Commodities	Poultry, Dairy, Hogs, Cattle & calves, Corn, Soybeans
Farms & Ranches	~5,200 (approx.)
Agricultural Land	~380,000 acres
Average Farm Size	~81 acres

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

Find your Service Center:

→ USDA Service Center Locator

Search for "Lancaster County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.

What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.

Programs for Lancaster County Operations

Based on Lancaster County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

Nutrient management and water quality protection are major priorities in this intensive agricultural area within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Programs promote sustainable intensification and precision agriculture techniques.

Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.

Local Conservation Priorities

EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.

We don't have Lancaster County's specific LWG priorities yet.

Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Lancaster County?"

Your Next Steps in Lancaster 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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