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Mathews County, Virginia

Farm Programs & Local Resources

Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error

A small coastal county surrounded by water on three sides, bordered by the Chesapeake Bay, Piankatank River, and Mobjack Bay. The landscape consists of low-lying peninsulas, tidal marshes, and numerous creeks creating a highly maritime environment.

Agriculture is dominated by seafood harvesting and aquaculture, particularly blue crab, oysters, and finfish operations in the extensive tidal waters. Limited land-based farming includes small vegetable operations and some cattle grazing on the higher ground areas.

Quick Facts

Find Your Local USDA Offices

Your nearest USDA Service Center houses both NRCS and FSA under one roof.

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 Mathews County Operations

Based on Mathews County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:

• EQIP
• CREP
• Beginning Farmer

EQIP supports aquaculture infrastructure development and water quality improvement practices for shellfish operations. CREP prioritizes shoreline stabilization and wetland restoration to protect critical marine habitats.

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.

Your Next Steps in Mathews County

1. Run the eligibility screener: Free Screener
2. Find your USDA Service Center: Service Center Locator
3. Read the Virginia guide: Virginia Farm Programs Guide

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