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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Craig County
The county falls within the Southern Appalachian Ridges and Valleys (MLRA 128) land resource region.
The growing season in Craig County spans roughly 275 frost-free days. Rainfall averages 44.0 inches per year. January lows average around 24°F while July highs reach about 83°F.
The 2022 Census of Agriculture counted 186 farms in Craig County, operating across 45,890 acres of farmland. The average farm spans 247 acres. Top commodities include cattle, sheep, and hogs.
Quick Facts
| Region | Valley and Ridge |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Fruit & tree nuts, Sheep, Hogs, Poultry, Honey |
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 Craig County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
36 Executive Cir, Bonsack, VA 24012
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 Craig County Operations
Based on Craig County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Mountain grazing management and livestock water system development are primary conservation focuses. Forest management practices are critical given the extensive woodland cover in steep mountain terrain.
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
Adjacent Counties
Counties bordering Craig County: Alleghany County, Virginia, Botetourt County, Virginia, Giles County, Virginia, Montgomery County, Virginia, Roanoke County, Virginia, and Monroe County, West Virginia. Each runs its own Local Working Group and may prioritize different conservation practices.
Your Next Steps in Craig County
- Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
- Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
- Read the Virginia guide: Virginia Farm Programs Guide
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