Lewis Wright
Geography and Climate
Municipal Boundaries and Topography
The geography of Calumet County, Wisconsin, is characterized by its diverse landscape that includes prairies, forests, wetlands, and glacial moraines.
The county’s terrain is primarily composed of gentle to rolling hills with numerous lakes, rivers, and streams, which provide a unique blend of scenic beauty and ecological diversity.
Topography:
Calumet County can be divided into three main physiographic regions:
- The Lake Winnebago Lowland lies in the southern part of the county, with elevations ranging from approximately 630 to 730 feet (193 to 223 meters) above sea level.
- The Fond du Lac Moraine covers the central and northern regions of the county, featuring higher elevations, including hills, ridges, and valleys.
- The Lake Michigan Tension Zone stretches along the eastern edge of the county, characterized by a narrower range of elevations due to its proximity to the lake.
Municipal Boundaries:
Calumet County is composed of two cities and one town:
- New Holstein City
- Hilbert Village
- Fremont Town
Climate:
The climate in Calumet County is humid continental, characterized by cold winters and warm summers.
Temperatures vary greatly throughout the year:
- Average January temperature ranges from 14°F (-10°C) to 30°F (-1°C)
- Average July temperature ranges from 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C)
The region experiences a moderate amount of precipitation, with an annual average of approximately 36 inches (914 mm), divided into distinct seasons:
- Spring: March through May, with significant rainfall and occasional thunderstorms
- Summer: June through August, with warm temperatures and frequent thunderstorms
- Autumn: September through November, with mild temperatures and fewer storms
- Winter: December through February, characterized by cold temperatures and minimal precipitation
The region is prone to lake-effect snow and freezing rain, particularly in the winter months.
Extreme weather events, such as tornadoes and derechos, are relatively rare but can occur during the spring and summer seasons.
The county comprises of cities like Kaukauna, Combined Locks, and Little Chute as well as towns such as Chilton and Hilbert. The Calumet County landscape is characterized by rolling hills with an elevation ranging from 680 to 780 feet above sea level.
Located in the eastern part of Wisconsin, Calumet County boasts a diverse geography that reflects its position within the Midwestern United States.
The county’s terrain features rolling hills, which are a result of the region’s tectonic history and erosion over millions of years.
The elevation in Calumet County varies from approximately 680 to 780 feet above sea level, with some areas featuring slightly higher peaks and valleys.
This moderate range in elevation contributes to the county’s relatively flat topography, making it an attractive location for residential development and agriculture.
The geography of Calumet County has played a significant role in shaping its climate, which is characterized as humid continental with cold winters and warm summers.
Temperature fluctuations throughout the year are common in this region, with average temperatures ranging from around -2°C to 22°C (28°F to 72°F) in January (the coldest month) and July (the warmest month), respectively.
The county’s proximity to Lake Michigan also influences its climate, particularly during the winter months when cold air masses from Canada can impact temperatures.
Annual precipitation in Calumet County averages around 900-1,000 mm, with most of it occurring between May and September due to the region’s location within the Green Bay area of Lake Michigan.
The combination of geography and climate has made Calumet County an attractive location for various industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
Demographics and Economy
Demographic Trends and Industry Overview
The demographic landscape of Calumet County, Wisconsin, presents an interesting mix of trends and characteristics that influence its economic profile.
Census data reveals a county with a relatively small but growing population. As of the 2020 census, approximately 53,000 residents call Calumet County home, representing about 1.3% of the state’s total population. This demographic trend is part of a broader pattern seen in many rural counties across the United States.
The median age within Calumet County stands at about 38 years old, which is slightly lower than both Wisconsin’s statewide median and the national average. The proportion of children under 18 accounts for approximately 24% of the population, suggesting a relatively healthy youth presence.
However, the county also experiences an aging trend with around 19% of its residents being aged 65 or older, slightly above the state’s and significantly higher than the national average. This demographic distribution implies that Calumet County faces both the challenge of supporting its elderly population and ensuring a future workforce to replace retiring Baby Boomers.
According to recent data from the American Community Survey (ACS) 2020 estimates, about 95% of the population resides in urban or suburban areas. The remaining residents are distributed among rural areas, indicating a predominantly non-urban demographic. The prevalence of these populations and their distribution can significantly influence economic development, transportation infrastructure needs, and the delivery of community services.
Looking at the economy, Calumet County is part of the Sheboygan-Fond du Lac-Bellevue-Oshkosh-Jackson Area as defined by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). The area includes parts of six counties: Fond du Lac, Calumet, Outagamie, Winnebago, Dodge, and Manitowoc. This economic region demonstrates a diverse industrial base with a significant focus on manufacturing, healthcare and social services, retail trade, education, and other sectors.
The county’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is influenced by its participation in this larger regional economy. Given the diversified nature of the area’s industries, the overall economic performance is less susceptible to downturns in any single sector compared to areas heavily reliant on a single industry. However, it also means that job markets and local economies within Calumet County can benefit from the opportunities presented by nearby urban centers like Green Bay or Appleton.
The major industrial sectors contributing to the county’s economy include:
Healthcare and Social Services: This sector represents a significant portion of employment in Calumet County, reflecting both public healthcare services and private hospitals and medical facilities.
Retail Trade: As the hub for shopping centers and retail outlets serving a broader area within the region, this sector is crucial to local economic activity and employment.
Manufacturing: The presence of various manufacturers in Calumet County adds depth to its industrial base by contributing jobs both directly through production lines and indirectly through supporting industries.
Education Services: With a substantial number of educational institutions serving the county, including public schools and private colleges, education represents another significant sector influencing employment figures.
The economic dynamics within Calumet County reflect a mix of trends seen across broader regional economies in the United States. The diversity in its industrial base offers resilience but also presents challenges such as managing workforce development needs alongside supporting an aging population.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Calumet County as of the 2020 census was approximately 48,971 residents. The local economy is driven by manufacturing with major contributors being the paper industry and metal processing.
The demographic profile of Calumet County, Wisconsin, as per the United States Census Bureau’s 2020 data, reveals a population of approximately 48,971 residents.
Demographically, the county boasts a diverse mix of age groups, with a relatively high proportion of middle-aged individuals, comprising about 35.4% of the total population.
The median household income in Calumet County stands at approximately $55,431, while the per capita income is around $24,931.
Economically, the county’s economy is predominantly driven by the manufacturing sector, which contributes significantly to its GDP. Major industries within this sector include:
The paper industry, which plays a crucial role in the county’s economy, with several large-scale paper mills operating within the region.
Metal processing is another key contributor to the county’s economy, with numerous metal fabrication and processing facilities scattered across the area.
Additionally, agriculture also plays an important role in Calumet County’s economic profile, with many farms and agricultural businesses operating within the region.
Points of Interest and Infrastructure
Landscape Features and Community Amenities
Cities and towns in Calumet County, Wisconsin have a rich array of Points of Interest and Infrastructure that contribute to their unique character and quality of life.
Points of Interest include historic sites such as the New Holstein Historic District, which features charming 19th-century buildings, and the Manitowoc County Historical Society Museum, showcasing local history and culture. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside, with numerous parks and nature preserves offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other recreational activities.
Infrastructure plays a vital role in supporting the daily lives of residents and visitors alike. The county has invested in modernizing its transportation network, with improved roads and highways connecting major cities and towns. Public transportation options are also available, making it easy to get around without a car. Moreover, the county’s energy infrastructure ensures reliable access to electricity, water, and other essential services.
Landscape Features shape the physical environment of Calumet County, influencing local ecosystems, climate, and geography. The region is characterized by rolling hills, vast prairies, and numerous lakes, offering a diverse range of habitats for plants and animals. The terrain has been shaped over millions of years through geological processes such as glaciation and erosion, resulting in a unique landscape that supports an array of flora and fauna.
Community Amenities enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute to the overall appeal of the region. Public facilities like schools, libraries, and community centers provide essential services and resources. Cultural institutions, such as museums, art galleries, and performance venues, promote arts and entertainment activities that foster social connections and a sense of belonging. Additionally, local businesses offer diverse shopping options, from unique boutiques to convenience stores, catering to the needs of residents and visitors.
These Points of Interest and Infrastructure, Landscape Features, and Community Amenities come together to create a distinctive character for Cities and towns in Calumet County, Wisconsin, making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit.
Calumet County features several notable sites, including the Lake Winnebago shoreline, parks like Riverview Park, and the community of Kaukauna. The county is also served by two major highways: US 41 and State Highway 55.
The Points of Interest and Infrastructure within Calumet County are a vital aspect of its identity and functionality, contributing to its growth and development.
One of the county’s most notable attractions is the Lake Winnebago shoreline, which offers breathtaking views, recreational activities, and a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. The lake’s vast waters serve as a source of entertainment for locals and tourists alike, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Riverview Park is another significant park within Calumet County, providing an escape from urban life and promoting outdoor recreation. This well-manicured area offers walking trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and a peaceful atmosphere, allowing residents to connect with nature and relax in the midst of the bustling environment.
The community of Kaukauna is also worth mentioning as it boasts its own unique charm and attractions. A thriving city within Calumet County, Kaukauna features an array of shops, restaurants, and community events that bring people together and contribute to a strong sense of community and belonging.
The county’s infrastructure plays a crucial role in facilitating transportation and economic growth. The presence of two major highways, US 41 and State Highway 55, allows for convenient access to nearby cities and towns, making it easier for residents to travel for work, education, or leisure activities. These thoroughfares also serve as vital routes for commerce and trade, stimulating local economies through the transportation of goods and services.
In conclusion, the Points of Interest and Infrastructure in Calumet County are integral components that not only enrich the lives of its residents but also support the county’s continued growth and prosperity. By embracing these unique attractions and well-developed infrastructure, the community can continue to thrive and serve as a great destination for both locals and visitors.
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