Iris, California facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Iris
|
|
|---|---|
 Iris
Location in California
Iris
Location in the United States
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| County | Imperial County |
| Elevation | 82 ft (25 m) |
Iris is a small, undeveloped place in Imperial County, California. It's known as an unincorporated community. This means it's not officially a city or town with its own local government. Instead, it's part of the larger county area.
Iris is located about 8 miles (13 km) northeast of a town called Calipatria. It sits at an elevation of 82 feet (25 meters) above sea level. The area is near the tracks of the Southern Pacific Railroad. This railroad was very important for transportation and trade in the past.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live that isn't part of an official city or town. It doesn't have its own mayor or city council. Instead, the county government takes care of services like roads, police, and fire protection. Many small communities in the United States are unincorporated.
Why Some Places Are Unincorporated
Places often remain unincorporated for different reasons. Sometimes, there aren't enough people living there to form a city. Other times, residents might prefer to have the county handle their services. This can sometimes mean lower taxes or fewer local rules.
Geography of Iris
Iris is located in the Colorado Desert region of California. This area is known for its very hot and dry climate. The landscape is mostly desert, with unique plants and animals adapted to the harsh conditions.
Imperial County Location
Imperial County is in the southeastern part of California. It borders Arizona and Mexico. The county is famous for its agriculture, even though it's a desert. This is possible because of irrigation systems that bring water from the Colorado River.
Transportation and History
The presence of the Southern Pacific Railroad near Iris shows its historical connection to transportation. Railroads were vital for moving goods and people across the country. They helped develop many small communities in the American West.
The Role of Railroads
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, railroads were like the highways of today. They connected distant places and allowed for the growth of industries. Small stops along the railroad lines, like Iris, often served as points for loading or unloading goods. They might also have been places where trains could refuel or switch tracks.
