Economic Development

The City of Park Falls is the largest community in Price County with a current census of 2,793 residents.  The city lies along the North Fork of the Flambeau River at the intersection of State Highways 13 and 182.  Park Falls is centered among lakes, wetlands, and other natural wilderness.  It is an attractive tourist area and its many parks and recreational areas are geared for residents and tourists alike.  It is centrally located in the rural northern Wisconsin area and serves as the regional health care site, as both Flambeau Hospital and Marshfield Clinic offer fine medical services in their technologically-advanced facilities.

Nearby communities in Price County include Phillips, the county seat, which lies 18 miles to the south, and Fifield, an unincorporated community four miles south of Park Falls.  The Village of Butternut, although located in southern Ashland County, is actually closer physically and economically to Park Falls than to other communities in Ashland County.  Many Butternut residents work and shop in Park Falls.

The economy of Park Falls is primarily based on natural resources.  Historically, the timber in the region provided the very reason for the community’s existence, with several lumber mills located in Park Falls.  Today, the major industries in the community relate to wood, health care, metal manufacturing, and tourism/recreation.  The major employers in Park Falls include Flambeau River Papers, LLC, Flambeau Medical Center, Marshfield Clinic, U.S. Forest Service, Department of Natural Resources, Park Falls Public Schools, St. Croix Rods, Park Manor Nursing Home, Supportive Home Services, Pepsi-Cola of Park Falls, Saunders Wood Specialties, Park Falls Hardwoods, and Weather Shield Manufacturing.

The lakes, rivers, and wooded setting of the Park Falls area have attracted visitors from southern Wisconsin and Illinois for many years, and tourism is welcome as a significant factor in the area economy.  Numerous resorts are located on the lakes and rivers, and the Chequamegon National Forest, Price County Forest, and nearby Flambeau River State Forest offer thousands of acres of recreational opportunities.  Snowmobiling, all-terrain vehicle riding, and cross country skiing have recently increased in popularity, bringing tourists into the area.

Park Falls prides itself on its fine athletic programs, boasting recent state championships in both girls’ and boys’ basketball, cross country, track, and hockey.  The residents have also supported a large ice arena project, as well as a renowned Junior Golf Program, which includes a junior golf course and clubhouse.

The City of Park Falls encourages growth in our community in many ways, including our active approach to recruit new industry and diversify our economic base.

Visit the Park Falls Area Community Development Corporation for more information.