Benton County, Washington, is located in the south-central part of the state. It was established in 1905 and is named after Thomas Hart Benton, a U.S. Senator from Missouri. The county seat is Kennewick, which is part of the Tri-Cities area, along with Richland and Pasco. Benton County is known for its agricultural production, particularly in grapes and wine. The county covers an area of approximately 1,759 square miles and has a diverse landscape that includes the Columbia River. Benton County is home to several parks and recreational areas, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.