Falls County

Falls County, located in Central Texas with Marlin as its county seat, is a 765-square-mile rural area characterized by the Brazos River, rolling Blackland Prairie, and a strong agricultural economy. Established in 1850 and named for nearby waterfalls, it is a hub for cattle, grain, and cotton production, featuring a population of roughly 17,000.

Geography & Climate

Location: Situated between Waco and Temple/Belton, bordered by McLennan, Limestone, Robertson, Milam, and Bell counties.
Landscape: Features gently rolling terrain and rich, clayey soils along the Brazos River, which flows through the center.

Economy & Industry

Agriculture: A major economic driver, ranked 17th in Texas for cattle production (115,649+ head) and a major producer of corn and sorghum.
Industry: The economy includes manufacturing, government services, and notable employment from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Hobby Unit.
Resources: Historically known for hot mineral artesian wells in Marlin, which developed into a 20th-century health resort, and some oil/gas activity.

Culture & Communities

County Seat: Marlin (population approx. 5,700).
Other Communities: Rosebud, Lott, Golinda, Reagan, Satin, Perry, and Otto.
Landmarks: The Falls on the Brazos Park, which features the site of the original, historical falls, and an Art Moderne style courthouse in Marlin.

Resources Available in Falls County

AgriLife Extension offers key programs across the state that are organized and supported at the county level. Click the links below for more information about local programming or contact your county office.