Geography and Demographics
Izard County Cities and Towns by Population
The geography of Izard County, located in the northeastern part of Arkansas, is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, forests, and scenic valleys. The county’s terrain is largely rural, with vast areas of farmland and woodland covering most of its 623 square miles.
The population density of Izard County is relatively low, with an estimated 15,900 residents spread across the county. This translates to approximately 25 people per square mile, which is lower than the national average.
The largest city in Izard County is Melbourne, with a population of around 1,70 Located near the center of the county, Melbourne serves as a commercial hub and offers basic amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare services.
The next-largest town in Izard County is Horseshoe Bend, which has a population of approximately 2,30 Situated on the shores of Bull Shoals Lake, Horseshoe Bend is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Ozark, with a population of around 3,500, is another significant town in Izard County. Located near the northern tip of the county, Ozark serves as a gateway to the surrounding Ozark National Forest and offers access to numerous hiking trails and scenic drives.
The remaining towns and villages in Izard County have significantly smaller populations, ranging from fewer than 100 residents to just a handful. These smaller communities often revolve around local businesses such as farming or hunting operations.
Izard County’s demographics are influenced by its rural nature and relatively low population density. The majority of the county’s residents identify as white, with smaller percentages identifying as Black, Native American, or Hispanic or Latino. The median household income in Izard County is approximately $35,000, which is lower than both the state and national averages.
The economy of Izard County relies heavily on agriculture, forestry, and tourism, with many residents employed in these sectors or related industries. However, the county’s economic development is hindered by its limited access to higher-paying jobs and the lack of major infrastructure such as highways and airports.
The largest city in Izard County is Horseshoe Bend, with a population of approximately 1,500 people
Horseshoe Bend is the largest city in Izard County, a county located in the Ozark Mountains region of northern Arkansas, United States.
Izard County has a total area of approximately 636 square miles, with a mix of rural and urban areas.
The population of Horseshoe Bend, according to available data, is estimated to be around 1,500 residents, making it the largest settlement in the county.
Geographically, Izard County is situated in the northwestern part of Arkansas, bordered by Fulton County to the northwest, Sharp County to the west, Stone County to the south, and Baxter County to the east. It also has a border with Missouri state to the north.
The Ozark Mountains provide the natural landscape for the county, with rolling hills, forests, and streams contributing to its scenic beauty.
Demographically, Izard County’s population is predominantly white American, but there are minority groups as well. The racial demographics of Horseshoe Bend include White (85%), Black or African American (0.3%), Native American (1.5%), Asian (0.4%), and other categories.
Age-wise, the median age in Izard County is relatively young, with approximately 20% of residents falling between the ages of 25-44 years old, making it a working-age population group that contributes to the local economy.
The educational level within Horseshoe Bend and Izard County is also noteworthy. While higher education institutions may not be readily available locally, some nearby cities provide access to higher learning options for residents seeking further education or career development opportunities.
Other major towns include Calico Rock and Maynard
- The city of Melbourne is located in Izard County, Arkansas.
- The county seat is Calico Rock, a small town with a population of around 1,800 people, according to the United States Census Bureau (2020 estimates).
- Cities and Towns in Izard County
- Melbourne
- Calico Rock (County Seat)
- Maynard
- Mount Pleasant
- Average household income is approximately $31,000 per year.
- Geographic Location and Climate
- Izard County is situated in the Ozark Mountains of Northern Arkansas.
- The county covers an area of 1,004 square miles (2,601 km²).
- The landscape is primarily rural with rolling hills and dense forests.
- Population Density and Age Distribution
- Izard County has a population density of around 20 people per square mile (7.7/km²), which makes it one of the least densely populated counties in Arkansas.
- The median age is approximately 41 years old, with a mix of young and older residents.
Economic Profile
Main Industries and Landmarks
- The economic profile of Izard County in Arkansas presents a mix of traditional industries and emerging sectors that contribute to its growth and development.
Main Industries:
- Timber and Forestry: The county’s vast forests provide an abundance of timber resources, supporting the forestry and wood products industry. Izard County has several sawmills and woodworking facilities that employ residents and export lumber to other regions.
- Agriculture: Farming is a significant sector in Izard County, with primary crops including soybeans, corn, wheat, and hay. Many farms in the area also raise livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens for meat production.
- Tourism: The county’s natural scenery, rich history, and outdoor recreational opportunities attract tourists from surrounding areas. Visitors come to enjoy activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring the Buffalo National River, which runs through Izard County.
Main Landmarks:
- Buffalo National River: This national park offers a scenic river valley with opportunities for floating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The park also preserves historic sites, including ancient Native American earthworks and early European-American settlements.
- Izard County Courthouse: Located in the county seat of Melbourne, the courthouse is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture built in 190 This impressive landmark serves as the hub for local government services and civic events.
- Ozark Folk Center State Park: Situated near Mountain View, this park showcases Ozark folk culture with demonstrations of traditional crafts like woodcarving, blacksmithing, and weaving. Visitors can explore historic buildings, attend cultural events, or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
These landmarks contribute to the county’s distinctive character, reflecting its strong heritage and natural beauty.
Agriculture is a significant sector, with farms producing livestock and crops such as timber and hay
- Izard County in Arkansas boasts a diverse economy with a notable presence of agriculture as a significant sector.
- Farms within the county engage in both livestock production and crop cultivation, including timber and hay, contributing to the local economy and employment opportunities.
- The agricultural sector not only provides income for farmers but also plays a crucial role in sustaining the ecosystem through practices that promote soil conservation and biodiversity.
- However, the economic profile of Izard County is not solely dependent on agriculture; other sectors like manufacturing, retail trade, and services also contribute significantly to its economy.
- The county’s geographic location within Arkansas creates opportunities for interstate commerce with neighboring states, further enhancing its economic profile.
- The presence of cities and towns, such as Melbourne, Ozark, and Maynard, adds to the county’s economic diversity by providing a range of services and job opportunities beyond agriculture.
Outdoor recreation also plays a vital role in the local economy, with access to lakes and forests for fishing and hunting
- The economic profile of cities and towns in Izard County, Arkansas, highlights the significant role that outdoor recreation plays in the local economy.
- Located in the Ozark Mountains, Izard County offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that attract tourists from across the region.
- One of the primary economic drivers in the county is tourism, with many visitors drawn to the area for its excellent fishing and hunting opportunities.
- The county’s numerous lakes, including Lake Norfork and Lake Bull Shoals, provide a habitat for a wide range of fish species, including bass, catfish, and trout, making it a fisherman’s paradise.
- In addition to fishing, the forests of Izard County offer ample opportunities for hunting deer, turkey, and small game, further contributing to the county’s economic profile.
- The county’s natural resources have also attracted several outdoor recreation-related businesses, such as guide services, outfitters, and lodges, which cater to visitors seeking to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
- These businesses not only generate revenue for local residents but also help support a range of related industries, including equipment sales, food service, and lodging.
- Overall, the outdoor recreation sector plays a vital role in the economic profile of cities and towns in Izard County, Arkansas, contributing significantly to the county’s GDP and supporting local employment opportunities.
The county is home to several historical landmarks, including the Izard County Courthouse and the Calico Rock Historic District
The economic profile of Izard County, located in the U.S. state of Arkansas, presents a unique blend of historical significance and modern-day economic activities.
One of the key contributors to the county’s economy is its rich natural resources sector, which includes forestry, mining, and agriculture. The rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Izard County provide an ideal environment for farming and ranching operations, with many local farmers producing staple crops such as cotton, soybeans, and corn.
The county is also home to a number of small businesses, including family-owned enterprises that have been operating in the area for generations. These businesses provide essential services and goods to residents and visitors alike, contributing to the county’s economic vitality.
Furthermore, Izard County’s historic landmarks, such as the Izard County Courthouse and the Calico Rock Historic District, attract tourists and history enthusiasts from across the region, injecting revenue into the local economy through accommodations, food services, and other hospitality-related activities.
The county’s strategic location near the Ozark Mountains, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, has also made it an attractive hub for tourism and recreation-related industries. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and other activities in the nearby national forests, further boosting local economic activity.
In addition to these sectors, Izard County is home to various government offices and institutions, including schools, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies, which provide employment opportunities and support the overall well-being of residents.
Education and Culture
Schools and Community Centers
- The education system in Izard County, Arkansas plays a vital role in shaping the minds of its young inhabitants and fostering a sense of community among its residents.
- From elementary schools to high schools, educational institutions in Izard County strive to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in an increasingly complex world.
- Schools in Izard County have implemented various initiatives to promote academic achievement and improve student outcomes, such as early childhood programs, gifted and talented programs, and vocational training opportunities.
- Community centers in the county serve as a hub for social and recreational activities, offering after-school programs, sports leagues, and arts classes that cater to diverse interests and needs.
- The community centers also provide critical support services, including food assistance, mental health counseling, and job training programs, which help address the complex challenges faced by some residents in Izard County.
- Collaborations between schools, community centers, and local organizations aim to strengthen ties between education and culture, promoting a deeper understanding of the county’s rich history, traditions, and values.
- The efforts also focus on enhancing cultural literacy, which includes exploring topics such as social justice, diversity, and inclusivity, thereby equipping students with essential life skills and knowledge for navigating an increasingly interconnected world.
- By fostering a strong connection between education and community culture, the people of Izard County can cultivate a more compassionate and empathetic society that values mutual respect and understanding among its diverse residents.
- This is crucial in shaping a vibrant and thriving community that celebrates individuality while promoting collective growth and well-being.
There are four public school districts in Izard County: Izard County Special School District, Mountain Home Public Schools (partially located in the county), Cotter School District, and Norfork School District
Izard County, Arkansas, has a total of four public school districts that cater to the educational needs of its residents. These districts are designed to provide high-quality education to students from various parts of the county, promoting academic excellence and personal growth.
The Izard County Special School District is one such district that focuses on providing special education services to students with disabilities. This district offers a range of programs and services tailored to meet the unique needs of its students, ensuring they receive the support necessary for their social, emotional, and academic development.
Mountain Home Public Schools, although partially located in Izard County, also provides educational services to residents of the county. As part of a larger school district that spans multiple counties, Mountain Home Public Schools offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for success in various areas of life.
Cotter School District is another public school district within Izard County that operates independently of other districts. This district serves as the primary provider of education services to students living within its designated boundaries, offering a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities.
Lastly, Norfork School District in language English is not accurately represented as such; instead, it seems there might be confusion with the name or location. It’s essential to verify the correct information about this school district to provide accurate details about its educational offerings and services.
It is worth noting that each public school district within Izard County has its unique strengths, challenges, and community involvement. Parents and guardians should research the specific school districts in their area to determine which one best aligns with their child’s needs and educational goals.
The county has a number of community centers that offer educational programs, recreational activities, and social events
- Izard County, Arkansas, offers its residents a range of educational opportunities through community centers that cater to various needs and interests.
- The community centers provide English language classes for individuals who are not fluent in the language, allowing them to improve their communication skills and participate more fully in community life.
- Recreational activities such as sports leagues, fitness programs, and arts and crafts workshops are also available, promoting physical activity, creativity, and social interaction among participants.
- Social events like concerts, festivals, and potluck dinners bring the community together, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents.
- In addition to these general programs, some community centers offer specialized services such as computer classes, job training, and after-school tutoring for children, addressing specific needs in education and employment.
- Overall, the community centers play an important role in promoting education, culture, and social cohesion in Izard County, enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
- By providing access to educational resources, recreational activities, and social events in a welcoming and inclusive environment, the community centers contribute to the county’s vitality and prosperity.
- The community centers also serve as gathering spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can come together, share their experiences, and learn from one another.
- In this way, the community centers help to build bridges between different segments of the community, promoting a more harmonious and inclusive society.
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