Cities And Towns In Washakie County, Wyoming

Geography and Climate

Natural Features and Boundaries

The geography and climate of Washakie County, Wyoming are shaped by its unique location within the Great Plains region of the United States.

Washakie County covers an area of approximately 3,086 square miles and is situated in northwestern Wyoming, bordered by the counties of Fremont to the south, Hot Springs to the southwest, Park to the northwest, and Natrona to the north and east.

The terrain of Washakie County can be broadly classified into three main types: mountains, hills, and plains.

Mountainous Region:

• The Bighorn Mountains run along the western edge of the county, forming a natural boundary with Park County to the northwest. The highest peak in the Bighorns within Washakie County is Medicine Bow Peak at an elevation of 12,001 feet (3,659 meters).

Hilly Region:

The central and eastern parts of the county are characterized by rolling hills, with elevations ranging from about 7,000 to 9,000 feet (2,134 to 2,743 meters) above sea level.

Plains Region:

• The south-central part of the county features gently sloping plains with elevations generally ranging from about 6,500 to 7,000 feet (1,981 to 2,134 meters) above sea level.

Washakie County is drained by several major rivers and streams, including the Greybull River, which flows northwest through the county and ultimately joins the Big Horn River in Montana.

Rivers:

• The Greybull River forms the western boundary of Washakie County and is a key factor in shaping the local geography.

The climate in Washakie County varies with elevation, resulting in several different climatic zones within the county:

Climatic Zones:

1. Alpine (above 9,000 feet / 2,743 meters): Cold and dry with low precipitation.
2. Montane (7,000-9,000 feet / 2,134-2,743 meters): Cooler temperatures, moderate precipitation.
3. Prairie (below 6,500 feet / 1,981 meters): Milder winters, warmer summers with higher precipitation.

Washakie County’s unique combination of geography and climate creates diverse natural features that support a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Washakie County is located in northwestern Wyoming, bordered by Sweetwater County to the south, Big Horn County to the east, and Natrona and Fremont counties to the west. The county covers a total area of 1,883 square miles (4,877 km2) at an elevation of approximately 6,900 feet (2,100 meters).

The geography and climate of Washakie County, Wyoming are shaped by its location in the northwestern part of the state and its elevation.

The county’s terrain is characterized as _plateau_ with numerous hills and valleys, including the Big Horn Mountains to the east and the Snowy Range to the west.

Washakie County is drained by several rivers, including the Greybull River, which flows through the town of Worland and empties into the Bighorn Basin.

The climate in Washakie County is semi-arid, with low humidity and moderate temperatures throughout the year. The average annual precipitation is around 10-15 inches (25-38 cm), with most of it falling during the summer months.

Winters are cold and snowy, with average snowfall ranging from 30-60 inches (76-152 cm) depending on elevation and location. Summer temperatures can be warm to hot, especially in July and August when highs often reach into the mid-80s to low 90s (29-32°C).

The county’s unique geography and climate support a wide variety of flora and fauna, including sagebrush steppe grasslands, aspen groves, and riparian zones along rivers and streams.

Wildlife in Washakie County includes elk, deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, coyotes, rabbits, and numerous species of birds, such as eagles, hawks, owls, and waterfowl.

The region’s diverse geology is characterized by sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, shale, and limestone, which provide valuable resources for mining and industry.

Climate and Vegetation

The geography of Washakie County in Wyoming can be characterized by its location within the high-altitude terrain of the Rocky Mountains. The county’s landscape features numerous mountain ranges, including the Big Horn Mountains to the west and the Sierra Madre Range to the east.

One notable geographical feature is the Bear Lodge Mountains, which form a significant portion of the northern boundary of Washakie County. This region is known for its rugged terrain, steep slopes, and deep valleys carved by glaciers during the last ice age.

The geology of Washakie County primarily consists of Precambrian metamorphic rocks, such as schist and gneiss, which are exposed in the higher elevations of the mountain ranges. Lower-lying areas feature younger sedimentary formations like shale and sandstone.

Washakie County’s climate is classified as a humid continental climate, characterized by cold winters and mild summers. The region experiences significant precipitation throughout the year, with most falls during the summer months. Temperature extremes are notable, especially at higher elevations where temperatures can drop below -40°F (-40°C) in winter and rise above 90°F (32°C) in summer.

The high-altitude location of Washakie County also contributes to a relatively short growing season, typically between late May and early September. As a result, vegetation is adapted to the short summers and cold winters. The dominant tree species in the county are aspen, spruce, and fir, which form dense forests in lower-lying areas.

Vegetation patterns also vary with elevation, where alpine meadows and scrublands appear at higher elevations due to harsh weather conditions and poor soil quality. Mountain grasses like bunchgrass and blue grama are found at mid-elevations, while shrubs such as juniper and sagebrush are common in drier areas.

Washakie County experiences a semiarid climate characterized by low precipitation, high winds, and temperature fluctuations. The region is dominated by shortgrass prairie vegetation with sagebrush, bitterbrush, and Wyoming big sage growing in areas where the soil allows for adequate moisture retention.

The geography of Washakie County in Wyoming is characterized by a semi-arid climate, with low precipitation rates and high winds contributing to its unique environmental profile.

One of the defining features of this region’s climate is its erratic temperature patterns, where temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night.

Low precipitation levels are another distinguishing aspect of Washakie County’s geography, resulting in a landscape that relies heavily on limited moisture sources.

The local flora reflects this arid environment, with shortgrass prairie vegetation dominating the region, including sagebrush, bitterbrush, and Wyoming big sage.

These hardy shrubs thrive in areas where soil conditions allow for some degree of moisture retention, often forming dense clusters that provide vital cover for local wildlife.

The geology of Washakie County is largely defined by its underlying bedrock, comprising a mix of limestone, sandstone, and shale deposits laid down during the Paleozoic Era.

This foundation provides the structural framework for the region’s landscape, which is shaped by centuries of erosion and weathering, resulting in gently sloping hills and plateaus punctuated by isolated peaks.

The drainage network within Washakie County consists primarily of ephemeral streams and seasonal creeks that are often dry by mid-summer due to the limited precipitation.

However, during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt, these waterways swell with runoff, providing vital habitats for local wildlife and recharging groundwater aquifers beneath the region’s surface.

Population and Economy

Population Growth and Distribution

The population of Washakie County, Wyoming is a crucial factor in understanding its economy and growth prospects. The county’s population has been steadily increasing over the years due to various factors such as migration from urban areas, job opportunities, and favorable business climate.

According to the 2020 United States Census, the estimated population of Washakie County was approximately 8,309 residents. This represents a slight increase from the previous census in 2010, which reported a population of 7,819 residents.

The population growth rate of Washakie County is relatively high compared to other counties in Wyoming. The county’s population has grown by about 6% over the past decade, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in the state.

Population Distribution

The population of Washakie County is distributed across its various cities and towns. The largest city in the county is Worland, which accounts for approximately half of the county’s total population. Other significant towns include Ten Sleep, Hartrandt, and Clearmont.

• Worland: With a population of around 5,000 residents, Worland is the largest city in Washakie County. The city serves as the commercial hub of the county, with a range of shops, restaurants, and services.
• Ten Sleep: Located near the north end of the county, Ten Sleep has a population of around 400 residents. The town is known for its natural hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.
• Hartrandt: With a population of less than 100 residents, Hartrandt is one of the smallest towns in Washakie County. Despite its small size, the town has a strong sense of community and hosts various events throughout the year.

Economic Overview

The economy of Washakie County is diverse, with a mix of industries including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services. The county’s natural resources, such as coal, oil, and gas, play a significant role in its economy, generating revenue from extractive activities.

• Agriculture: Washakie County is known for its fertile soil and favorable climate, making it an ideal location for farming and ranching. The county produces a range of crops including wheat, barley, oats, and hay, as well as livestock such as cattle and sheep.
• Coal mining has been a significant industry in Washakie County for many years, with several coal mines operating in the area. The coal extracted from these mines is primarily used for energy generation and industrial applications.

The county’s economy is also driven by its service sector, which includes healthcare, education, retail trade, and hospitality. The presence of various educational institutions, including the Washakie County School District, provides job opportunities in teaching and administrative roles.

The population of Washakie County has been steadily increasing since 2000, reaching approximately 8,100 residents as per the 2020 United States Census. The county seat, Worland, accounts for a significant portion of the population with a mix of rural and urban residents.

The population of Washakie County has been steadily increasing since 2000, reaching approximately 8,100 residents as per the 2020 United States Census.

This growth in population is likely to have a positive impact on the local economy, leading to increased demand for goods and services, job creation, and investment opportunities.

Economic Overview of Washakie County

The economy of Washakie County is diverse, with major industries including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and tourism.

Some of the key sectors driving economic growth in the county include:

• Agriculture:** Washakie County is a significant producer of hay, cattle, and sheep. The county’s fertile land and favorable climate make it an ideal location for farming and ranching.
• Minning:** The county is home to several active mines, including coal and precious stone mines. These operations provide employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy.

Tourism in Washakie County

Washakie County’s scenic beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreational opportunities make it an attractive destination for tourists.

• National Parks:** The county is close to several national parks, including Yellowstone National Park and the Bighorn Mountains.
• Fishing and Hunting:** Washakie County offers excellent fishing and hunting opportunities, with numerous lakes, rivers, and wildlife habitats.
• Recreational Activities:** Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and snowmobiling.

The growth in population and economic development in Washakie County is likely to continue, driven by the county’s strategic location, diverse economy, and natural resources.

Economic Activities and Industry

The population of Washakie County, Wyoming has a significant impact on its economy and economic activities.

Economic Activities such as agriculture, mining, and tourism contribute to the county’s overall GDP.

Agriculture is a vital part of Washakie County’s economy, with many farmers and ranchers operating in the area. The county’s fertile soil and moderate climate make it an ideal location for growing crops like wheat, corn, and alfalfa.

Industry plays a crucial role in Washakie County’s economy, with various sectors contributing to its growth. Some of the major industries in the county include:

• Mining: The county has significant deposits of coal, iron ore, and other minerals, which are extracted and processed for use in various industries.

• Manufacturing: Several manufacturing facilities are located in the county, producing goods such as food products, machinery, and equipment.

• Service sector: The service sector is a significant contributor to Washakie County’s economy, with various businesses providing services like healthcare, education, and tourism.

Tourism also plays an important role in the county’s economy, with many visitors attracted to its natural attractions such as Devils Tower National Monument, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, and the Washakie Wildlife Area.

The population growth rate of Washakie County has been steadily increasing over the years, which is a positive sign for the local economy. The population growth rate can be attributed to various factors such as job opportunities, affordable housing, and a high quality of life.

Urbanization is another trend that has been observed in Washakie County, with many residents moving from rural areas to urban centers like Worland and Ten Sleep. This shift towards urbanization can have both positive and negative impacts on the county’s economy and social structure.

In conclusion, Washakie County’s population and economy are closely intertwined, with various economic activities contributing to its growth and development. The county’s natural resources, industries, and service sector all play a vital role in shaping its economy.

The economy of Washakie County is driven by agriculture, mining, tourism, and government services. Agriculture contributes significantly to the local economy through ranching, farming, and horticulture. Mineral deposits are found in the area, supporting a smallscale mining industry.

The economy of Washakie County, situated in the state of Wyoming, is a diversified blend of various industries that contribute significantly to its growth and development.

Agriculture plays a crucial role in the local economy, with ranching, farming, and horticulture being major contributors. The fertile soil and favorable climate in the region enable farmers to grow a wide range of crops, including hay, corn, and alfalfa. In addition, the county’s vast grazing lands support a thriving livestock industry.

The mining industry is another significant sector that drives the economy of Washakie County. Mineral deposits such as coal, trona, and limestone are found in abundance in the area, supporting a small-scale mining industry. While not as extensive as other industries, mining provides employment opportunities and revenue for local businesses.

Tourism also plays a vital role in the county’s economy, particularly during the summer months when outdoor enthusiasts visit to engage in recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting. The scenic beauty of the area, including the nearby Big Horn Mountains and the Greybull River, attracts tourists from across the country.

Government services, including law enforcement, education, and healthcare, are also essential components of the county’s economy. These sectors provide employment opportunities for local residents and contribute significantly to the overall economic development of the area.

The diverse economy of Washakie County creates a stable environment for businesses to thrive, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors alike. The county’s unique blend of industries makes it an attractive location for those looking to start or expand a business.