Adams County, Washington

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Adams County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 19,983. The county seat is Ritzville, and the largest city is Othello. Adams County was created out of Whitman County on November 28, 1883, and is named in honor of the second President of the United States, John Adams.

Geography

Adams County is part of the Columbia Plateau, featuring a landscape dominated by farmland and sagebrush. The county covers an area of 1,925 square miles, of which 1,922 square miles is land and 3.0 square miles (0.2%) is water. Notable geographic features include the Snake River, which forms the county's southern boundary, and the Columbia Basin Project, which has significantly influenced the region's agriculture and economy.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Adams County had a population of 19,983. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and African American minorities. The economy of Adams County is largely based on agriculture, including the cultivation of wheat, potatoes, and other crops, as well as livestock raising.

Economy

Agriculture is the backbone of Adams County's economy, with wheat, potatoes, and onions being the primary crops. The county benefits from the Columbia Basin Project, which provides irrigation water that transforms the arid region into productive farmland. Additionally, food processing and manufacturing have become increasingly important to the local economy.

Government and politics

Adams County is governed by a Board of County Commissioners, which consists of three members elected by the county's residents. The county tends to lean politically conservative, with a majority of its voters supporting Republican candidates in state and national elections.

Education

The county is served by several school districts, including the Othello School District, Ritzville School District, and Washtucna School District, providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education opportunities are available in nearby counties.

Transportation

Major highways running through Adams County include Interstate 90, U.S. Route 395, and State Route 26. These roads provide vital connections to other parts of Washington and facilitate the transport of agricultural products to markets.

Communities

Adams County is home to several cities and towns, including Ritzville, Othello, Lind, and Washtucna. Each community has its unique character and history, contributing to the county's diverse cultural landscape.

See also

• List of counties in Washington
• Washington (state) geography