Valley County facts for kids

Valley County is a name used for three different places in the United States. When you hear "Valley County," it could be talking about a county in Idaho, Montana, or Nebraska.

Counties are like smaller areas within a state. They help organize things like local government, schools, and roads. Sometimes, different states might choose the same name for one of their counties, which is why we have three "Valley Counties"!

Valley County, Idaho

Valley County in Idaho is located in the central part of the state. It's known for its beautiful mountains, forests, and lakes. The county seat, which is like the main town where the government offices are, is called Cascade.

This area is a popular spot for outdoor activities. People love to go hiking, fishing, and boating in the summer. In the winter, it's a great place for skiing and snowboarding. The Payette National Forest covers a large part of Valley County, offering lots of wilderness to explore.

Fun Facts About Idaho's Valley County

• Big Lake: Part of the famous Payette Lake is in Valley County. It's a large, deep lake that's popular for water sports.
• Wildlife: You can find many different animals here, including deer, elk, and even bears.
• History: The county was created in 1917 from parts of Boise and Idaho counties.

Valley County, Montana

Valley County in Montana is located in the northeastern part of the state, right next to the Canadian border. Its county seat is Glasgow. This county is much larger in area than Valley County, Idaho, but has fewer people living there.

The landscape here is mostly wide-open plains and rolling hills. The Missouri River flows through the southern part of the county. Agriculture, especially ranching and farming, is a very important part of the economy in Valley County, Montana.

What Makes Montana's Valley County Special?

• Fort Peck Dam: This huge dam on the Missouri River is one of the largest earth-filled dams in the world. It created Fort Peck Lake, which is a massive reservoir.
• Dinosaurs: The area around Valley County is known for its rich fossil beds. Scientists have found many dinosaur bones here!
• Vast Lands: Because it's so big and has few people, it feels very open and wild.

Valley County, Nebraska

Valley County in Nebraska is found in the central part of the state. The county seat here is Ord. Unlike the other two Valley Counties, this one is in the Great Plains region of the United States.

The land in Valley County, Nebraska, is mostly flat or gently rolling, perfect for farming. The North Loup River flows through the county, providing water for crops and livestock. Agriculture is the main industry, with corn, soybeans, and cattle being very important.

Interesting Facts About Nebraska's Valley County

• Rivers: The county is named for the valleys created by the Loup Rivers.
• Farming Community: It's a classic example of a farming community in the American Midwest.
• Small Towns: The county has several small, friendly towns where people live and work.