Allegany County

Allegany County is located in the mountainous western region of the state. The name Allegany was derived from a Native American word, oolikhanna, meaning “beautiful stream.” Its mountains, forests, and trails, which occupy a vast majority of the terrain, provide an abundance of recreational activities.

Over 50% of the county’s land has slopes of greater than 25%. Its large areas of forestland are currently exempt from the Maryland Forest Conservation Act. Agricultural land use and development have largely been limited to 20% of the county’s total land area.

 As of 2000 there were 74,930 people and a population density of 176 people per square mile. The population is projected to decrease over the next several years with a 2015 population of 74,250 people.