Clallam County, Washington

Clallam County Courthouse 09-11-13 Wiki

Clallam County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 77,331. The county seat and largest city is Port Angeles. The county was formed on April 26, 1854, and was named after the Clallam word for "the strong people." It is situated on the Olympic Peninsula, with the Pacific Ocean to the west, Jefferson County to the south and east, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, making it a region of vast natural beauty and geographical diversity.

Geography

Clallam County encompasses a variety of landscapes, including the northern reaches of the Olympic Mountains, vast tracts of Olympic National Park, and over 100 miles of rugged coastline along the Pacific Ocean and Strait of Juan de Fuca. The county's geography is marked by its natural features, including the Hoh Rainforest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S., and the Elwha River, which has been the subject of one of the largest dam removal projects in the world.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, Clallam County had a population of 77,331. The demographic makeup of the county has been changing slowly, with a mix of age groups, and a diversity that includes Native American tribes, particularly the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe, the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe, and the Makah Tribe. These tribes play a significant role in the cultural and economic life of the county.

Economy

The economy of Clallam County has traditionally been based on logging, fishing, and agriculture, but in recent years there has been a shift towards tourism, especially with the attractions of Olympic National Park. The county also benefits from its maritime industry, including shipbuilding and a growing aquaculture sector.

Government and Politics

Clallam County operates under a three-member Board of County Commissioners, which is the governing body responsible for county affairs. The county has a reputation for being politically independent, with voters often splitting their tickets between candidates of different parties.

Education

The county is served by several school districts, including the Port Angeles School District, Sequim School District, and Crescent School District, providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education is available through Peninsula College, located in Port Angeles.

Transportation

Transportation in Clallam County includes a network of state highways, with U.S. Route 101 being the main arterial route that traverses the county. The county is also served by the William R. Fairchild International Airport in Port Angeles, and ferry services that connect to Victoria, British Columbia, providing both domestic and international transportation options.

Recreation and Attractions

Clallam County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Olympic National Park, with its diverse ecosystems, is a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. The county also hosts several cultural events and festivals, celebrating its rich heritage and community spirit.