← South Dakota Farm Programs Guide
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About McPherson County
Elevation across McPherson County averages about 1,974 feet. The county falls within the Central Dark Brown Glaciated Plains (MLRA 53B) land resource region.
The growing season in McPherson County spans roughly 214 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 21.0 inches per year. January lows average around 3°F while July highs reach about 82°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 330 farms in McPherson County, operating across 652,253 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 1,977 acres. Top commodities include corn, cattle, and soybeans.
Quick Facts
| Region | North Central |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Cattle & calves, Soybeans, Poultry, Hogs, Wheat |
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 McPherson County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
709 Moulton St, Leola, SD 57456
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 McPherson County Operations
Based on McPherson County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Grassland conservation and soil health practices are emphasized to maintain the balance between crop production and ranching. Wetland protection programs support waterfowl habitat while managing water resources for agricultural use.
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 McPherson County: Dickey County, North Dakota, McIntosh County, North Dakota, Brown County, South Dakota, Campbell County, South Dakota, Edmunds County, South Dakota, and Walworth County, South Dakota. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in McPherson 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.