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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Union County
Union County lies in the Loess Uplands (MLRA 102C) region. Elevation averages about 1,301 feet.
Union County averages 28.6 inches of precipitation annually (1991–2020 NOAA normals). The frost-free growing season runs about 214 days. Annual mean temperature is 47.7°F.
Union County's agricultural base centers on corn, soybeans, and cattle. The 2022 Ag Census recorded 498 farms working 197,254 acres. Cattle inventory stands at 3,652 head.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southeast |
| Top Commodities | Corn, Soybeans, Cattle & calves, Hogs, Floriculture, Sheep |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Severe Drought (D2). LFP-eligible for 6+ weeks — check FSA for livestock forage assistance.
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 Union County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
1101 E Main St, Elk Point, SD 57025
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 Union County Operations
Based on Union County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Water quality protection programs emphasize nutrient management and conservation practices in this intensive crop and livestock production area. Cover crop adoption and soil health initiatives help maintain the productivity of premium agricultural soils.
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 Union County
Union County shares borders with Plymouth County, Iowa, Sioux County, Iowa, Woodbury County, Iowa, Dakota County, Nebraska, Dixon County, Nebraska, and Clay 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 Union 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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