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Independence
Eden Index
Climate
7.2
•
Recreation
6.1
•
Community
1.7
•
Safeguard
5.4/10
Independence, Iowa is a charming small city located in Buchanan County. The climate in Independence is characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F, while winters bring cold weather with temperatures fluctuating between 10-30°F. The city experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the highest precipitation occurring during the summer months.
Hydrologically, Independence is situated near the Wapsipinicon River, which provides abundant water resources for the region. The river supports a diverse range of aquatic life and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Additionally, there are several small lakes and ponds in the area that provide recreational activities such as swimming and picnicking.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find various opportunities to explore nature in Independence. The Wapsipinicon State Park, located just outside the city, offers scenic trails for hiking and biking, as well as camping facilities. The park's diverse ecosystems, including forests, prairies, and wetlands, provide an excellent environment for bird-watching and wildlife observation.
In conclusion, Independence, Iowa presents a pleasant climate with distinct seasons, a close proximity to the Wapsipinicon River, and a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor adventures.
What is the Eden Index?
The Snoflo Eden Index serves as a comprehensive rating system for regions, evaluating their desirability through a holistic assessment of climate health, outdoor recreation opportunities, and natural disaster risk, acknowledging the profound impact of these factors on livability and well-being.
Climate Health Indicator (CHI): 7.2
Independence receives approximately
911mm of rain per year,
with humidity levels near 84%
and air temperatures averaging around
9°C.
Independence has a plant hardyness factor of
5, meaning
plants and agriculture in this region thrive during a short period during spring and early summer. Most
plants will die off during the colder winter months.
By considering the ideal temperature range, reliable water supplies, clean air, and stable seasonal rain or snowpacks, the Climate Health Indicator (CHI) underscores the significance of a healthy climate as the foundation for quality living.
A healthy climate is paramount for ensuring a high quality of life and livability in a region, fostering both physical well-being and environmental harmony. This can be characterized by ideal temperatures, reliable access to water supplies, clean air, and consistent seasonal rain or snowpacks.
Weather Forecast
Streamflow Conditions
Upper Mississippi-Skunk-Wapsipinicon
Area Rivers
Upper Mississippi-Skunk-Wapsipinicon
Snowpack Depths
Upper Mississippi-Skunk-Wapsipinicon
Reservoir Storage Capacity
Upper Mississippi-Skunk-Wapsipinicon
Groundwater Levels
Recreational Opportunity Index (ROI): 6.1
The Recreational Opportunity Index (ROI) recognizes the value of outdoor recreational options, such as parks, hiking trails, camping sites, and fishing spots, while acknowledging that climate plays a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and consistency of these experiences.
Access to outdoor recreational opportunities, encompassing activities such as parks, hiking, camping, and fishing, is crucial for overall well-being, and the climate plays a pivotal role in enabling and enhancing these experiences, ensuring that individuals can engage in nature-based activities comfortably and consistently.
Camping Areas
| Campground | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chamois Access - MDC | 4 | 530 ft | |||
| Rollins Ferry Access - MDC | 11 | 568 ft | |||
| Lane Spring | 64 | 1,069 ft | |||
| Paydown Access - MDC | 6 | 596 ft | |||
| Paddy Creek | 36 | 1,008 ft | |||
| Piney River Military - Fort Leonard Wood | None | 768 ft | |||
| Lakeview Park - Mexico | None | 810 ft | |||
| Sycamore Loop Dispersed - Noblett Lake | None | 905 ft | |||
| Mark Twain State Park | None | 666 ft | |||
| Shelbina Lake City Park | None | 722 ft |
Nearby Ski Areas
Catastrophe Safeguard Index (CSI):
The Catastrophe Safeguard Index (CSI) recognizes that natural disaster risk, encompassing floods, fires, hurricanes, and tornadoes, can drastically affect safety and the overall appeal of an area.
The level of natural disaster risk in a region significantly affects safety and the overall livability, with climate change amplifying these risks by potentially increasing the frequency and intensity of events like floods, fires, hurricanes, and tornadoes, thereby posing substantial challenges to community resilience and well-being.
Community Resilience Indicator (CRI): 1.7
The Community Resilience Indicator (CRI) recognizes that education, healthcare, and socioeconomics are crucial to the well-being of a region. The CRI acknowledges the profound impact of these elements on residents' overall quality of life. By evaluating educational resources, healthcare accessibility, and economic inclusivity, the index captures the essential aspects that contribute to a thriving community, fostering resident satisfaction, equity, and social cohesion.