Howard County was formed in April 1873 and covers nearly 600 square miles. Howard County is home to 13,789 citizens in southwest Arkansas. The topography of the county includes the Ouachita Mountains and the fertile soils of the southern coastal plains. Two clear rivers, the Cossatot and Saline, thread their way through the county. Three Corps of Engineers lakes, Gillham, Dierks, and Millwood, provide recreational opportunities for the people of Howard County. Howard County has abundant natural resources which have created many industries. Manufactured in the county are such products as gypsum wallboard, plywood, lumber, scissors, shears, plastic molding, plating, brooms and machinery including weedeaters and chainsaws. Timber, cattle, poultry and swine also play vital roles in Howard County's economy.