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Powder River County

Powder River County

Published: 2020
By Mary Rumph
Powder River County is a rural, agricultural county of 3,297 square miles, located in southeastern Montana. The county was named for the gunpowder-colored sand on the banks of the Powder River, which runs through it. Total acres in Powder River County equals 2,109,728 million, most of which is used for rangeland purposes.
The population of Powder River County is 1,716, according to the 2018 census figures. The population is aging, with 52 years the average.
Powder River County is primarily rural and agricultural. There is limited oil and timber production. Most of Powder River County is grazing land. Since 1954, farm acreage has fluctuated between 1.54 and 1.72 million acres. The number of ranches has decreased, and the average size continues to increase.
Forage for livestock has been a challenge due to drought, grasshoppers and fire.