Bladen County land and farms are located in the southeastern Coastal Plains of the state. This area is home to a strong agriculture industry and is a haven for second-home owners and vacationers. Land in Bladen County encompasses 879 square miles that includes 180,000 acres split between farming and woodlands. Eighty-four percent of agriculture revenues are derived from the sale of livestock and poultry. Among the county’s largest private employers are Smithfield Foods, Gildan Yarns, Bladen County Hospital and Danaher Controls Manufacturing. With a population of 33,000, the county has a workforce that has diversified skills and experience needed by local industry. Bladen County’s land is rich in natural resource and draws hunters and anglers and both tourism-oriented and residential development around its lakes. Three rivers including the Cape Fear River transverse the county, providing plenty of opportunities to fish for sunfish, bass, catfish and more. Those who hunt can stalk bear, deer, turkey and other small game. Bladen County School District provides K-12 public education. Bladen Community College offers higher education courses as well as workforce training for new and expanding industries.
