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Farm Programs & Local Resources
Last Updated: March 2026 | Always verify with your local USDA office. Report an error
About Wise County
Wise County is part of the Cumberland Plateau and Mountains land resource region (MLRA 125).
Based on 1991–2020 normals, Wise County sees 50.2 in of rain, a 275-day growing season, a 53.3°F mean annual temperature.
Wise County carries 613 head of cattle (2022 Ag Census). Pastureland totals 4,589 acres. 120 farms operate in the county, averaging 126 acres each.
Quick Facts
| Region | Southwest Virginia |
| Top Commodities | Cattle & calves, Fruit & tree nuts, Vegetables, Berries, Goats, Honey |
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 Wise County.
USDA Service Center (NRCS + FSA)
140 Highland Dr, Lebanon, VA 24266
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 Wise County Operations
Based on Wise County's agricultural profile, these programs are most relevant:
Programs focus on reclaiming former mining areas for agricultural use and supporting small-scale farming operations in challenging mountain terrain. Emphasis on soil rehabilitation, water quality improvement, and sustainable practices for limited agricultural opportunities.
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
Nearby Counties
Operators in Wise County frequently work or lease ground across county lines. Neighboring counties include Harlan County, Kentucky, Letcher County, Kentucky, Pike County, Kentucky, Dickenson County, Virginia, Lee County, Virginia, and Russell County, Virginia. USDA programs and local NRCS priorities may differ from one jurisdiction to the next.
Your Next Steps in Wise 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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