← South Dakota Farm Programs Guide
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Lawrence County
Elevation across Lawrence County averages about 5,672 feet. The county falls within the Black Hills (MLRA 62) land resource region.
The growing season in Lawrence County spans roughly 184 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 25.4 inches per year. January lows average around 13°F while July highs reach about 81°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 316 farms in Lawrence County, operating across 167,325 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 530 acres. Top commodities include cattle, equine, and equine.
Quick Facts
| Region | West |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Horses, Vegetables, Floriculture, Honey, Goats |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2).
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 Lawrence County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
1837 5th Ave S, Belle Fourche, SD 57717
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 Lawrence County Operations
Based on Lawrence County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Forest management and erosion control practices are emphasized due to steep terrain and watershed protection needs. Small-scale agricultural operations focus on sustainable practices adapted to mountain environments and limited growing seasons.
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 Lawrence County: Butte County, South Dakota, Meade County, South Dakota, Pennington County, South Dakota, Crook County, Wyoming, and Weston County, Wyoming. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Lawrence County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the South Dakota guide: South Dakota Farm Programs Guide
Part of Farmer's Navigator. Built by ranchers. Every guide on this site is free.