Cowlitz County, Washington

Cowlitz County Courthouse

Cowlitz County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was approximately 110,593. The county seat is Kelso, and its largest city is Longview. Cowlitz County is part of the Longview Metropolitan Statistical Area, which also includes parts of the neighboring Oregon counties. The county was formed on April 21, 1854, from parts of the original Lewis County and is named after the Cowlitz Indian tribe.

History

Cowlitz County's history is deeply intertwined with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. European exploration began in the early 19th century, with the establishment of fur trade routes and posts by both the British Hudson's Bay Company and American settlers. The county's establishment in 1854 marked a significant period of growth and development, driven by the timber industry, agriculture, and later, the establishment of manufacturing industries.

Geography

Covering an area of approximately 1,166 square miles, Cowlitz County is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes the Columbia River that forms its southern boundary, vast forested areas, agricultural lands, and the presence of several volcanic peaks, including Mount St. Helens, which is located in the northeastern part of the county. The county's proximity to the Columbia River has been instrumental in its economic development and growth.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Cowlitz County had a population of 110,593. The demographic makeup of the county has evolved over the years, with a mix of urban and rural populations. The economy of Cowlitz County has traditionally been based on the timber industry, manufacturing, and trade, with recent diversification into service and retail sectors.

Economy

The economy of Cowlitz County has historically been driven by the timber industry, given its vast forested lands. Over the years, manufacturing, especially in the paper and pulp sector, has played a significant role in the local economy. The Port of Longview is one of the major deep-water ports in the Pacific Northwest, facilitating trade and contributing to the economic development of the region. In recent years, there has been a shift towards service-oriented industries, healthcare, and retail, diversifying the county's economic base.

Education

Cowlitz County is served by several school districts, providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Higher education is represented by Lower Columbia College, located in Longview, which offers a range of degrees and certificates in various fields of study.

Transportation

Transportation in Cowlitz County is facilitated by a network of roads, including Interstate 5, which runs north-south through the county, connecting it to major cities like Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington. The county also benefits from rail connections and the presence of the Port of Longview, which provides maritime transport options.

Recreation

Cowlitz County offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in its parks and natural areas. The proximity to Mount St. Helens provides unique opportunities for outdoor activities and attracts tourists to the region.