Rutland County, Vermont
Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
The broad Otter Creek valley runs north-south through the county, flanked by the Green Mountains to the east and the Taconic Mountains to the west. Rich valley soils contrast with steeper mountain slopes.
Diverse agriculture includes significant dairy operations in the valley bottoms and diversified farming on hillsides. The county supports both traditional dairy farms and growing specialty crop operations.
Quick Facts
| Region | South Central Vermont |
| Top Commodities | Dairy, Cattle & calves, Maple syrup, Vegetables, Corn, Fruit & tree nuts |
| Farms & Ranches | ~485 (approx.) |
| Agricultural Land | ~120,000 acres |
| Average Farm Size | ~187 acres |
Find Your Local USDA Offices
Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.
Find your Service Center:
Search for "Rutland County" to find your local NRCS and FSA offices.
What to do when you call: Ask for a conservation planner (EQIP/CSP) or loan officer (FSA). Mention your operation type and planned improvements.
Programs for Rutland County Operations
Based on Rutland County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Conservation programs emphasize protecting the Otter Creek watershed while supporting diverse farming systems. Technical assistance addresses both intensive valley agriculture and sustainable mountain farming practices.
Not sure which programs fit? Run our free eligibility screener — 2 minutes, personalized action packet.
Local Conservation Priorities
EQIP applications addressing local priorities score higher in ranking.
We don't have Rutland County's specific LWG priorities yet.
Ask your local NRCS office: "What are the priority resource concerns in Rutland County?"
Your Next Steps in Rutland County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Vermont guide: Vermont Farm Programs Guide
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