Skagit County

With locations West of Okanogan County and North of Snohomish County, Skagit County is one of Washington State’s counties in the U.S. According to its county map, the county sits on a 1,920 square miles area neighboring land and water. Best known for its fertile and huge valley, Skagit is a quality farming ground for fruits, in this case, Tulips and strawberries.

According to the census records, Skagit county is significant in its population growth. The first census conducted was in 1890, and by this time, the population was only 8,747. The latest records as of 2010 indicate a quality increment of up to 130,789.

Brief History

Before becoming what it is now, a county, Skagit’s history tracks to over 10,000 years back. Because of its beautiful landscape, natural features, and habitable environments, Skagit attracted many people who came to endeavor in various socio-economic activities. In this mix, there was an element of fishing that mainly attracted people along the Skagit River and other resources. The rest of the activities they engaged in were; collecting clams and mussels.

By 1850, 11 tribes had already settled in Skagit. The white European-Americans came in later in the 1860s. In 1863, they built the LaConner flats’ dike mainly to thrill the ongoing agricultural activities.

Skagit County became one of the Washington counties in 1883. By this time, the population and socio-economic activities and amenities had reached the required threshold.

Today, Skagit county brags of independence in matters of governorship and food production. The agricultural centers and industries still play a significant role in its economy. The main foods produced are majorly vegetables and fruits, spinach, cabbage, and table beet.

Also, Skagit County now comprises the Metropolitan Statistical Area and Mount Vernon-Anacortes, WA. Still, however, it forms part of the WA Combined Statistical Area and Seattle–Tacoma. Towns and cities within are at their fast growth pace, which even attracts more people and investors.

County Seat

Mount Vernon stands as Skagit County’s county seat. Currently, it is the largest city in the region, carrying a total population of 32,600 people. Its name derives from an Indian tribe that resided in the territory long before the white’s settlement.

Some of the exciting things about Mount Veron are festivals. Each year, the city celebrates the Tulip Festival Street Fair, one of the most thrilling occasions for many.

In 1998, Vernon received recognition as the best small city in the U.S. Today, it still strives to uphold its values and status. Public records on quality socio-economical thriving have remained relevant.

Governance

Skagit County, unlike other WA counties, does not hold a charter yet. According to the constitution, therefore, it remains manageable by only three commissioners. Note that holding these positions follows an elective process that starts at the district level through nomination. Ones, the nominations are complete, next follows the election, a county-wide voting process.

NB: Each of the three commissioners is supposed to cover the entire county in matters of governance.

Other county offices also include the legislative departments, upholding the law to its core. In between this, there are security handling departments, jail, courts, and independent security firms who ensure secure living in the region.

In collaboration with the Country’s security departments, the local county police pursue various cases, including the federal types. Some of these include county lines, sexual assaults, murder, robbery, etc. Skagit County, in this regard, therefore, remains a highly reliable location security-wise.

Things You would enjoy in Skagit County

Skagit County offers several enjoyments opportunities for those who like its culture and lifestyle.

1. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

The largest and most celebrated festival  Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, is one occasion many Skagit county residents celebrate. The festival starts in early April. According to experts, this is when the flowering is at its peak, blooming, among various flower trees.

Naturally, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival attracts millions of people from various walks of life who come in to enjoy the unfoldings; they mostly explore over 300 acres of a flower farm. The colorful festival takes to its intensity in the second week of April. By this time, the blooming would have been at its best, exposing the ultimate beauty of each flower plant.

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival only comes annually, and the typical farms involved are the Tulip Town and RoozenGaarde – thousands of tulips are grown here.

For visitors who wish to attend this colorful and remarkable event, planning your trip earlier is critical. With millions expected in the county during this time, it is key to note that traffic can be an issue. This season is mainly characterized by intense traffic jams within the major towns and cities around. The most recommendable times to travel are during weekdays. Weekends typically get parked up with crowds everywhere: train stations, bus stops, and airports.

Nonetheless, early or late arrival is key if you have to attend the festivals on the weekend. Try being at the celebration grounds either before 9 am or past 3 pm.

2. Skagit Wildlife Area

The Skagit Wildlife Area in Skagit county offers you a quality explosion and experience you crave for bird lovers. The area is a total of 16,700 acres consisting of 16 separate segments.  The largest section is next to Skagit Bay. You would find this between the mouths of the North and the south forks of Skagit River.

On an annual occasion, Skagit Wildlife becomes home to thousands of birds. The precise period is always between autumn and spring. Such birds available include the snow geese, trumpeter, tundra swans, etc. Accessing the Skagit Wildlife Area can be from different points, either North or south of the river. Note, however, that hunting season begins in October and continues to January. Such times are not best for visiting; hence great caution is paramount.

3. Rasar State Park

The 169-acre Rasar State Park offers perfect camping opportunities for anyone in Skagit county. The very typical feature here is the 4,000 feet of freshwater shoreline. It offers a pleasant view and a breeze that consoles.

All you have to do is watch the eagles fly all around and into the skies when you come here. The most strategic time for an enticing view is either early winter or spring.

4. Bay View State Park

Another best place to visit while in Skagit County is Bay View, State Park. It sits in a 25-acre area with great camping features. The 1,285 feet saltwater shoreline on Padilla Bay is one nice view many come here to experience. Typically, more than 11,000 acres of Padilla Bay are part of the National Estuarine Sanctuary.

Like any county across the world, Skagit got its strengths and weekends. The typical lifestyle here is one that most people enjoy; however, it all depends on an individual’s perception.

Skagit County Offices by Type