Benton County, Washington

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Benton County, Washington is a county located in the south-central part of the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, its population was approximately 204,390. The county seat is Prosser, and its largest city is Kennewick. Benton County is part of the Tri-Cities metropolitan area, which also includes the cities of Richland and Pasco.

History

Benton County was created on March 8, 1905, from parts of Klickitat and Yakima counties. It was named after Thomas Hart Benton, a U.S. Senator from Missouri who was a strong advocate for the Oregon Territory. The area has a rich history, with significant growth and development stemming from the construction of the Hanford Site during World War II, which played a crucial role in the Manhattan Project.

Geography

Covering an area of 1,760 square miles, Benton County is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes parts of the Columbia River, agricultural lands, and semi-arid regions. The county's proximity to the river has been instrumental in its agricultural development, particularly in the cultivation of wine grapes, making it a significant part of the Washington wine industry.

Adjacent counties

• Franklin County (north)
• Walla Walla County (east)
• Umatilla County, Oregon (southeast)
• Morrow County, Oregon (south)
• Klickitat County (west)
• Yakima County (northwest)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Benton County had a diverse population with a significant percentage of residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The economy is supported by a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and services, with the Hanford Site still being a major employer due to its focus on environmental cleanup and research.

Government and politics

Benton County operates under a three-member Board of County Commissioners, which is the governing body responsible for county ordinances and budgets. The county has a history of leaning towards the Republican Party in both state and federal elections.

Economy

The economy of Benton County is largely driven by agriculture, particularly the production of wine grapes, apples, cherries, and hops. The presence of the Hanford Site has also contributed to a significant technology and research sector. Additionally, the Tri-Cities area has seen growth in healthcare, education, and retail services.

Education

Benton County is served by several public school districts, including Kennewick School District, Richland School District, and Prosser School District, among others. Higher education institutions include Washington State University Tri-Cities and Columbia Basin College, which offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Culture and recreation

The county is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hiking, thanks to its rivers and natural landscapes. The Tri-Cities area hosts several cultural events and festivals, such as the Washington State Wine Festival and the Tri-City Water Follies, featuring hydroplane races on the Columbia River.