↓ Skip to main content
  1. Community Resources/

Farming & Agriculture

·453 words·3 mins
Table of Contents

Farming & Agriculture
#

Agriculture is the backbone of Oran and the surrounding communities. The fertile land of Fayette County supports a variety of agricultural activities that contribute significantly to the local economy and culture.

Local Agriculture
#

Major Crops
#

The Oran area is known for producing:

  • Corn
  • Soybeans
  • Hay and alfalfa
  • Small grains

Livestock
#

Many local farms raise:

  • Beef cattle
  • Dairy cattle
  • Hogs
  • Poultry

Agricultural Resources
#

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach - Fayette County
#

Provides research-based information and education to agricultural producers.

Address: 218 South Main Street, Fayette, IA 52142
Phone: (563) 425-3331
Website: extension.iastate.edu/fayette
Services:

  • Crop and livestock production advice
  • Farm management
  • Agricultural research
  • 4-H and youth development

Farm Service Agency (FSA) - Fayette County
#

Administers farm commodity, crop insurance, credit, conservation, and other agricultural programs.

Address: 120 13th Street NE, Independence, IA 50644
Phone: (319) 334-4105
Website: fsa.usda.gov

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
#

Provides technical assistance to farmers and landowners for conservation practices.

Address: 120 13th Street NE, Independence, IA 50644
Phone: (319) 334-4105
Website: nrcs.usda.gov

Local Markets and Services
#

Farmers Markets
#

Seasonal opportunities to purchase local produce and products:

  • Oelwein Farmers Market
  • Independence Farmers Market
  • Waterloo Downtown Farmers Market

Agricultural Supply and Services
#

  • Local cooperatives
  • Feed suppliers
  • Equipment dealers
  • Seed and fertilizer suppliers

Agricultural Events
#

County Fair
#

The Fayette County Fair showcases local agricultural achievements and provides educational opportunities.

Location: West Union Fairgrounds
Timing: Typically held in late July or early August
Activities: Livestock shows, crop exhibitions, equipment displays, 4-H/FFA competitions

Field Days and Demonstrations
#

Throughout the growing season, various organizations host educational events for farmers.

Conservation and Sustainability
#

Soil and Water Conservation District
#

Works with landowners to implement conservation practices.

Services:

  • Erosion control
  • Water quality improvement
  • Wildlife habitat development

Conservation Programs
#

Various state and federal programs provide financial assistance for conservation practices:

  • Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
  • Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
  • Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

Agricultural Education
#

Wapsie Valley FFA
#

The local FFA chapter prepares students for careers in agriculture and develops leadership skills.

Activities: Supervised agricultural experiences, leadership development, competitions

4-H
#

Youth development organization with many agricultural project opportunities.

Contact: Fayette County Extension Office

Weather Resources for Farmers
#

Historical Agricultural Heritage
#

The agricultural heritage of Oran dates back to the early settlers who recognized the fertility of the soil in this region. Many farms in the area have been in the same family for generations, earning Century Farm or Heritage Farm designations from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.