Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Castro County
Elevation across Castro County averages about 3,807 feet. The county falls within the Southern High Plains, Southern Part (MLRA 77C) land resource region.
The growing season in Castro County spans roughly 275 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 19.3 inches per year. January lows average around 24°F while July highs reach about 92°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 415 farms in Castro County, operating across 570,818 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 1,375 acres. Top commodities include cattle, milk, and corn.
Quick Facts
| Region | South Plains / Panhandle |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Dairy, Corn, Cotton, Grain sorghum, Wheat |
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 Castro County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
114 W Belsher St, Dimmitt, TX 79027
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 Castro County Operations
Based on the agricultural profile of Castro County, these programs are most likely to be relevant:
Irrigation efficiency (Ogallala Aquifer, critical depletion), soil health, wind erosion, and dairy waste management.
Commonly funded practices in this area: Irrigation water management (LEPA/LESA conversions), cover crops, residue management, nutrient management, and waste storage facilities.
Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener. It takes 2 minutes and generates a personalized action packet you can print and bring to your USDA office.
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 Castro County: Deaf Smith County, Texas, Hale County, Texas, Lamb County, Texas, Parmer County, Texas, Randall County, Texas, and Swisher County, Texas. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Castro County
- Run the eligibility screener to see which programs fit your operation: Free Screener
- Find your local USDA Service Center and call to schedule a meeting: Service Center Locator
- Read the full Texas guide for statewide program details, deadlines, and office contacts: Texas Farm Programs Guide
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