Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Runnels County
Runnels County is part of the Central Rolling Red Plains, Western Part land resource region (MLRA 78B).
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Runnels County sees 24.6 in of rain, a 65.1°F mean annual temperature.
Runnels County carries 1,879 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 353,114 acres. 1,039 farms operate in the county, averaging 647 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | West Central Texas |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Cotton, Wheat, Sheep, Corn, Goats |
Current Conditions
Drought status: Moderate Drought (D1) — watch for worsening; LFP not currently triggered.
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 Runnels County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
2002 Hutchins Ave, Ballinger, TX 76821
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 Runnels County Operations
Based on the agricultural profile of Runnels County, these programs are most likely to be relevant:
Rangeland health, brush management, and soil health on cropland.
Commonly funded practices in this area: Brush management, prescribed grazing, cover crops, cross-fencing, and livestock water development.
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
Nearby Counties
Operators in Runnels County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Coke County, Texas, Coleman County, Texas, Concho County, Texas, Nolan County, Texas, Taylor County, Texas, and Tom Green County, Texas. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Runnels 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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