Iosco County, Michigan
Iosco County is a county located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 25,405. The county seat is Tawas City, and the largest city is East Tawas. Iosco County is known for its natural beauty, including its location along the shores of Lake Huron, and its outdoor recreational activities.
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History
Iosco County was established in 1840 and named after the Iroquois word "iosco," meaning "water," in reference to the county’s numerous lakes and its location along the shores of Lake Huron. The county was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Ojibwa and Potawatomi. European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, drawn to the area’s fertile land and abundant natural resources.
Historically, Iosco County’s economy was based on the timber industry, with logging and sawmills playing a key role in the area’s development. Later, agriculture, tourism, and the fishing industry contributed to the region’s economy.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Iosco County has a total area of 1,742 square miles, of which 1,334 square miles is land and 408 square miles (23.5%) is water. The county is located in the northeastern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and is bordered by:
- Alcona County to the west
- Oscoda County to the south
- Arenac County to the southwest
- Lake Huron to the east
Key geographic features of Iosco County include:
- **Lake Huron**: The county is bordered by Lake Huron to the east, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities along the coast.
- **Tawas Bay**: A bay of Lake Huron, known for its calm waters and popular for fishing and recreational boating.
- **Au Sable River**: A major river running through the county, offering fishing, kayaking, and scenic views.
Economy
Iosco County’s economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and natural resources. Major sectors include:
- **Tourism**: The county’s location along Lake Huron and its proximity to outdoor recreational areas make tourism an important part of the economy. Visitors are attracted by the area's beaches, parks, and outdoor activities.
- **Agriculture**: The county has a diverse agricultural base, with crops such as corn, soybeans, and potatoes, as well as livestock.
- **Fishing**: The Au Sable River and Lake Huron provide opportunities for both commercial and recreational fishing.
- **Retail and Services**: The city of Tawas City and surrounding areas serve as commercial hubs, offering retail stores, restaurants, and services to both residents and tourists.
Communities
Iosco County includes several cities, villages, and townships.
- East Tawas (city): The largest city in the county, located along the shores of Tawas Bay, known for its beaches and tourism-related businesses.
- Tawas City (city): The county seat, known for its historic downtown area and the Tawas Point State Park.
- Oscoda (village): A village located along the Au Sable River and Lake Huron, popular for its outdoor activities.
Townships
Iosco County is divided into 11 townships:
- Baldwin Township
- Bismarck Township
- Clement Township
- Au Sable Township
- East Tawas Township
- Fairview Township
- Greenwood Township
- Iosco Township
- Milanca Township
- Tawas Township
- Whittemore Township
Parks and Recreation
Iosco County offers a variety of parks and recreational activities, including:
- **Tawas Point State Park**: A state park located on Tawas Point, offering beaches, picnicking areas, and hiking trails with scenic views of Lake Huron.
- **Huron National Forest**: A large forest area in the southern part of the county that offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- **Tawas Bay**: A popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, attracting tourists to the area.
Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Iosco County had a population of 25,405. The population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of African American, Hispanic, and Native American residents. The county has a mix of rural and suburban communities, with most residents living in Tawas City and East Tawas.
Education
Iosco County is served by several school districts:
Higher education opportunities include:
- Kirtland Community College: A community college located in the nearby city of Roscommon, offering a variety of associate degrees and vocational programs.
Transportation
Iosco County is served by several major highways:
- U.S. Route 23: Runs through the county along the coast of Lake Huron, connecting Iosco County to other major cities in Michigan.
- M-55: A state highway that runs through the southern part of the county, connecting Tawas City to nearby communities.
Public transportation is available through the Iosco County Transit system, providing bus services to residents.
See Also
References
- United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts: Iosco County, Michigan."
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "Tawas Point State Park."
- Romig, Walter. Michigan Place Names. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1986.
