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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Somerset County
Somerset County is part of the Eastern Allegheny Plateau and Mountains land resource region (MLRA 127). The county's mean elevation is about 2,356 feet.
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Somerset County sees 47.2 in of rain, a 244-day growing season, a 48.0°F mean annual temperature.
Somerset County carries 14,725 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 19,751 acres. 998 farms operate in the county, averaging 198 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southwest |
| Top Commodities | Dairy, Corn, Cattle & calves, Hogs, Soybeans, Floriculture |
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 Somerset County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
6024 Glades Pike, Somerset, PA 15501
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 Somerset County Operations
Based on Somerset County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs emphasize rotational grazing systems and pasture improvement for dairy and beef operations. Soil conservation practices address erosion control on sloping terrain and stream protection in agricultural watersheds.
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 Somerset County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Allegany County, Maryland, Garrett County, Maryland, Bedford County, Pennsylvania, Cambria County, Pennsylvania, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, and Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Somerset 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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