Communities in the Iowa Lakes Corridor have a rich European heritage and a growing Hispanic and Asian population.  This region of Iowa was settled in the 1800's by German,  Irish, Swedish, Dutch, Danish, English and Norwegian ancestors. 

Communities annually celebrate their ethnic heritage through festivals, holidays commemorating particular cultures, and local organizations.  Check out our calendar of events for upcoming festivals or contact the local Chamber of Commerce for more information on specific events.

Race and ethnicity statistics for each of our counties are provided below.

Buena Vista County
Total Population = 20,411

Minority Population = 2,449                                                                                                                              Photo courtesy of Storm Lake Chamber
  White - 17,962 (88%)
  Hispanic or Latino - 2,560 (12.5%)
  Asian - 884 (4.3%)

Clay County
Total Population = 17,372
Minority Population = 333
  White - 17,039 (98.1%)
  Hispanic or Latino - 196 (1.1%)
  Asian - 142 (0.8%)

Dickinson County
Total Population = 16,424
Minority Population = 180

  White - 16,244 (98.9%)
  Hispanic or Latino - 109 (0.7%)

Emmet County
Total Population = 11,027
Minority Population = 289
  White - 10,738 (97.4%)
   Hispanic or Latino - 475 (4.3%)

Source:  2000 US Census Data