Grays Harbor County, Washington

Lake Quinault Mist

WA-8

US 12

US 101

Grays Harbor County is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 75,061. The county seat is Montesano, and its largest city is Aberdeen. Grays Harbor County comprises the Aberdeen, WA Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Grays Harbor County, originally named Chehalis County, was formed out of Thurston County on April 14, 1854. Its name was later changed to Grays Harbor County by the Washington State Legislature, effective June 9, 1915, to honor Captain Robert Gray who discovered and named the Grays Harbor Bay in 1792. The county has a rich history, closely tied to the logging and fishing industries that dominated its economy for decades.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,224 square miles, of which 1,902 square miles is land and 322 square miles (14.5%) is water. It is noted for its significant stretches of Pacific coastline, dense rainforests, and the Olympic Mountains that border it to the north. Grays Harbor County includes parts of the Olympic National Forest, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Grays Harbor County had a population of 75,061. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant Native American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino populations. The economy has traditionally been based on natural resources such as timber, fishing, and more recently, tourism. The county has faced economic challenges, including higher than average unemployment rates compared to the rest of Washington State.

Economy

The economy of Grays Harbor County has historically been driven by the logging, fishing, and shellfish industries. In recent years, there has been a shift towards tourism, retail, and service industries, partly due to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities the county offers. Efforts have been made to diversify the economy, including the development of the Port of Grays Harbor to attract international trade.

Government

Grays Harbor County is governed by a Board of County Commissioners, elected by the citizens of the county. The county government oversees various departments, including public health, safety, and public works, ensuring the well-being and infrastructure of the county's residents.

Education

The county is served by multiple school districts, providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education opportunities are available through Grays Harbor College, located in Aberdeen, which offers a range of degree and certificate programs.

Transportation

Transportation in Grays Harbor County includes a network of state highways, with U.S. Route 12 and State Route 101 being the primary highways facilitating travel within the county and connecting it to other parts of Washington State. Public transportation services are provided by Grays Harbor Transit, offering bus services to residents and visitors.

Culture and Recreation

Grays Harbor County is home to a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The county's natural landscapes, including beaches, forests, and rivers, provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Annual events, such as the Grays Harbor County Fair and the Westport Seafood Festival, celebrate the county's heritage and community spirit.