Prowers County, CO
11,854 residents · 1,638 sq mi · 7.2/sq mi · 38% rural
About Prowers County
Prowers County is a county located in the U.S. state of Colorado. As of the 2020 census, the population was 11,999. The county seat is Lamar. The county is named in honor of John Wesley Prowers, a leading pioneer in the lower Arkansas River valley region.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a semi-arid climate with an annual mean temperature of 54.1°F and receives about 16.2 inches of rain per year. The growing season is moderate, suitable for crops in USDA zone 7b, though drought conditions can be a concern. The terrain is primarily rural, with a population density of 7.2 people per square mile, allowing for ample space for self-sufficient living and potential homesteading opportunities.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with drought ranked at 96 and hail at 88 on the FEMA scale, posing risks to agriculture and infrastructure. The area also faces challenges from lightning and wildfires, with respective risk rankings of 86 and 79. While the violence percentile is relatively low at 76, the overall disaster percentile is average at 48, indicating a moderate risk environment. The housing market is accessible, with median home prices around $120,200, but economic opportunities may be limited.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quieter, more spacious environment with a focus on self-sufficiency. Those with experience in managing water resources and agricultural practices will likely thrive here. However, the risk of drought and other natural hazards may deter inexperienced homesteaders or those reliant on consistent water supply and crop yields, making these factors potential dealbreakers.