Skamania County

Skamania is a county in the state of Washington. The county gets its name from the word Sk’maniak. Also, it is a cascade/chinook word for swift waters. As of 2020, a census determined that 12083 people lived in Skamania. Legislators created the county in 1854. 

The county seat for Skamania is Stevenson, which is the largest incorporated city. However, Carson River valley is the largest in terms of population. 

History 

Red Indians inhabited the land for years. They would later leave the land following constant battles with foreigners. However, with time, explorers and people passing through would locate the gem. The area was of interest to Britons due to fur trade. 

On the other hand, Americans were in search of large grazing land for cattle rearing. The two rivaling ideas would see a signing of a treaty on land administration of the area. They created two administrative zones. One was Clark county and the other Lewis. 

The names of the first settlers in the area are still not clear. However, Americans who first arrived in the county chose the rapids, and they could not travel any further. 

In 1851, a man by the name of Francis Chenoweth built the first railroad. There have been major changes in transportation since then after 1894. In 1893, two people transported county records overnight, and the Cascades was destroyed in a flood.  

Economic activities 

After the Indians became a part of history, the settlers set their eyes on fishing. They would harvest Salmon. Fishing is still a vital economic activity in the area. However, fishing would not last that long after the construction of the Bonneville dam. Overfishing led to the decline of sturgeon and Salmon. 

Logging makes up a significant part of the economy. Skamania is 80% forested. Additionally, there is enough space for tree growing and harvesting. However, logging has been facing a downward spiral. Eventually, a good part of the population that relied on milling and logging would end up jobless. 

Tourism is an essential part of the economy. The Skamania Lodge, one of the earliest tourist attractions, is a significant employer in the area. Many tourists flock to the region to experience activities, such as windsurfing, hiking, fishing, and camping. 

The Columbia gorge attracts windsurfers to the area. The strong winds are excellent for experienced surfers. It also boasts of scenic beauty that anyone would want to experience. 

Towns and Cities 

There are towns and cities in Skamania county, where most people reside. Stevenson, Carson, and North Bonneville are three big cities in the region. Notably, there are other populated areas in the county are Mill A, Molfait Tracts, Stabler, Fort Rains, Home Valley, Prindle, Saint Cloud, and Underwood, among others. 

There are census-designated areas in the region line Carson and Carson river valley. 

County parks and recreational activities 

Though there are many parks in the area, there are noteworthy parks to visit when you want to refresh and have a fun time. Some county parks in the area include the Home valley campground, Big Cedars, and Prindle park. 

Visit state parks in the area for hiking, rock climbing, holding picnics, and camping. The Beacon Rock State Park is one of the best places to enjoy outdoor activities. 

There are other protected areas in the county. Notably, the forest service takes charge of some of the areas. Some examples include St. Cloud Day and Sam’s Walker Day. 

National protected areas include 

• Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge
• Pierce National Wildlife Refuge
• Gifford Pinchot National forest
• Wind River Arboretum
• Wind River experimental forest
• Mount St. Helens National Monument

County seats 

Skamania has had two county seats since its inception in 1854. However, the county seat is currently Stevenson. 

The battle between Lewis and Clark’s county saw the first county seat set to lower cascades. In 1865, the county had been deleted and divided between Clarke’s and Klickitat. However, the legislature would restore the county in 1867. 

The county seat has remained in Stevenson since George Stevenson took the public record and kept them. Later, the town of Stevenson would thrive and grow to attract people. 

County offices 

The county offices in Skamania are in Stevenson. There are many departments at the County offices, each with a mandate separate from any other. Ultimately, they all work together to serve the people of Skamania. 

The sheriff 

The sheriff’s office takes care of law and order in the area. They handle cases of crime and conduct investigations, among other duties. Additionally, they oversee other important functions like traffic and tackle incidences of lawlessness. 

They are also in charge of the department of corrections, where convicts are jailed or detained. 

Juvenile Services 

The juvenile department takes charge of the youth and operates under the statutory authority of RCW 13.40. The correction service of under the Skamania County Superior court. Their commitment is to help juveniles value their society and build a sense of belonging. 

District court 

The district court hosts hearings for cases tried within the county level. They handle minor offenses like misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and small claims. The court hearings can be live on online sessions or through normal court proceedings. 

Visit their offices at 240 NW Vancouver Ave, Stevenson, WA 98648. 

The county clerk 

The county clerk is there to help the three arms of the government in the county. They ensure to carry out their duties without any impartialities while still maintaining their dignity. Also, they are independent and unbiased. 

The county clerk handles public records in the area. They are in charge of documentation like the will repository and reviewing court documents. They support the judiciary as the financial officer to the court and also as the ex-officio. 

The county Auditor 

The county auditor handles the registry for marriages, auto licensing, and elections. 

County lines 

The county lines have evolved and shifted over time. In inception, the county was a part of Clark county. The total area for the county is 1684 square miles. 

The county boundaries only changed after officials added a part of the Deschutes River. The River is in Walla Walla county. 

Skamania county borders other counties like Lewis, Yakima, Klickitat, Clark, Cowlitz, and Hood River counties. 

Skamania County Offices by Type