Stevens County, Washington

Stevens County Courthouse - Colville, Washington

Stevens County is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 45,260. The county seat and largest city is Colville. Established on January 20, 1863, Stevens County is named after Isaac Stevens, the first governor of the Washington Territory.

History

Stevens County was created from the original Washington Territories that were established in 1853. The county's formation was a result of the partitioning of Spokane County, which occurred in 1863. This division was part of the territorial government's efforts to manage the rapidly increasing population and the need for more localized administrative regions. The county has a rich history, with early settlement patterns influenced by the fur trade, mining, and agriculture.

Geography

Covering an area of 2,541 square miles, Stevens County is characterized by its varied landscape, which includes mountainous terrain, valleys, and rivers. The Columbia River forms the southern boundary of the county, providing vital water resources for agriculture and recreation. The county is also home to part of the Colville National Forest, offering extensive outdoor recreational activities and natural beauty.

Adjacent Counties

Stevens County is bordered by Ferry County to the west, Pend Oreille County to the east, Spokane County to the south, and the Canadian province of British Columbia to the north.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, Stevens County had a population of 45,260. The demographic makeup of the county has historically been predominantly white, with a small percentage of Native American, Asian, African American, and Hispanic or Latino residents. The economy of Stevens County is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and mining, with tourism also playing a significant role due to the county's natural attractions.

Government

Stevens County operates under a commissioner-county form of government, where three elected commissioners hold executive and legislative authority. The county is divided into three commissioner districts, each represented by one commissioner. The commissioners are responsible for setting policies, adopting the budget, and overseeing county operations.

Economy

The economy of Stevens County is diverse, with a strong emphasis on natural resources. Forestry and timber production have historically been significant contributors to the local economy, along with mining and agriculture. In recent years, tourism has grown in importance, with visitors drawn to the county's natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and historical sites.

Education

Stevens County is served by several school districts, providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education opportunities within the county are limited, but nearby institutions in other parts of the state offer a range of programs for county residents.

Transportation

The county's transportation infrastructure includes a network of state highways, with U.S. Route 395 being the primary north-south route through the county. Public transportation options are limited, with services focused on connecting the more populated areas.

Communities

Stevens County is home to a variety of communities, ranging from small towns to rural areas. The largest city and county seat, Colville, serves as the administrative and economic center of the county. Other notable communities include Chewelah, Kettle Falls, and Springdale.