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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Moody County
Moody County lies in the Loess Uplands (MLRA 102C) region. Elevation averages about 1,574 feet.
Moody County averages 27.7 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 214 days. Annual mean temperature is 44.4°F.
Moody County's agricultural base centers on corn, milk, and soybeans. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 413 farms working 216,019 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 11,979 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeast |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Dairy, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Hogs, Sheep |
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 Moody County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
105 S Crescent St, Flandreau, SD 57028
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 Moody County Operations
Based on Moody County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Water quality protection along the Big Sioux River corridor emphasizes buffer strips and nutrient management practices. Livestock facility improvements and waste management systems support the significant animal agriculture sector in the county.
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
Counties Bordering Moody County
Moody County shares borders with Lincoln County, Minnesota, Pipestone County, Minnesota, Rock County, Minnesota, Brookings County, South Dakota, Lake County, South Dakota, and Minnehaha County, South Dakota. Conservation priorities, EQIP ranking pools, and drought conditions often overlap across county lines — it's worth checking neighboring county pages if your operation spans multiple jurisdictions.
Your Next Steps in Moody 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
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