Established: Jan. 16, 1854

Elev. at St Helens: 42'

Area: 687 sq. mi.

Average Temp.: January 39.0° July 68.4°

Assessed Value: $6,043,662,288

Real Market Value: $10,815,585,787

(includes the value of non-taxed properties)

Annual Precipitation: 44.60"

Economy: Agriculture, forest products, manufacturing, surface mining and tourism

Chinook and Clatskanie Tribes inhabited this bountiful region centuries before Captain Robert Gray, commanding the Columbia Rediviva, landed on Columbia County’s timbered shoreline in 1792. The Corps of Discovery expedition, led by Lewis and Clark, traveled and camped along the Columbia River shore in the area later known as Columbia County in late 1805 and early 1806.

The county has 62 miles of Columbia riverfront with deep water ports and premium industrial property. The Columbia River is a major route for ocean-going vessels and is a popular playground for fishing, boating, camping and windsurfing. The county has two marine parks, Sand Island and J. J. Collins Memorial Marine Park. Columbia County’s strong economic and cultural heritage is centered on industries such as forest products, shipbuilding, mining and agriculture. Residents enjoy the rural lifestyle and scenic beauty of Columbia County, coupled with its proximity to Portland.