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Nolic, Arizona

3 min read 2 views Updated December 20, 2025 2.0/10

Nolic, Arizona

Nolic is a small community located in Navajo County, Arizona, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was approximately 130 residents.

Introduction

Nolic is situated near the confluence of Nolic Creek and the Little Colorado River, about 35 miles northwest of Heber, Arizona. The community's name originates from the nearby creek, which is believed to have been named by early settlers. Despite its small size, Nolic has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century.

History/Background

The area around Nolic was first inhabited by the Navajo people, who used the land for hunting and gathering. In the late 1800s, the United States government established several reservations in the region, including the Navajo Nation Reservation, which borders Nolic to the north.

  • 1892: The United States government opens the area around Nolic to settlement through the Homestead Act, allowing settlers to claim land for free if they agreed to farm it and live on it for a minimum of five years.
  • 1900s: The area becomes home to several ranches and farming operations, as well as a small schoolhouse and general store.

The construction of the Little Colorado River Dam in 1968 had a significant impact on the community of Nolic. The dam created a large reservoir, Lake Powell, which flooded much of the surrounding land and forced many residents to relocate.

Key Concepts

Geography and Climate

Nolic is situated in the high desert region of Arizona, with an average elevation of approximately 6,500 feet above sea level. The area experiences a semi-arid climate, with cold winters and hot summers.

  • Average annual rainfall: 12 inches (30 cm)
  • Average temperature range:
    • Winter:** -10°C to 10°C (14°F to 50°F)
    • Summer:** 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F)

Demographics

The population of Nolic is predominantly Native American, with a small number of non-Native residents.

  • Population density: approximately 1 person per square mile (0.39 km²)
  • Median household income:
    • $40,000

Economy

The economy of Nolic is primarily based on agriculture and ranching, with many residents involved in the production and sale of livestock.

  • Top agricultural products:
    • Cattle
    • Hay

Technical Details

Infrastructure

Nolic has limited infrastructure, with only a single dirt road connecting it to the nearest town.

  • Access roads: None
  • Parking facilities: Limited

Utilities

The community relies on well water and electricity from a nearby generator.

  • Water supply:
    • Well water
  • Electricity:
    • Generator

Transportation

The closest major transportation hub is the Flagstaff Regional Airport, which is located approximately 70 miles (113 km) east of Nolic.

  • Public transportation:
    • N/A
  • Parking facilities: None

Applications/Uses

Agriculture

The area around Nolic is suitable for a variety of crops, including hay and cattle.

  • Crop yields:
    • Hay: 200-300 tons per year
  • Livestock production:
    • Cattle: 100 head per year

Recreation

The community offers limited recreational opportunities, including hunting and fishing.

  • Hunting areas:
    • Nolic Creek
  • Fishing areas:
    • Lake Powell

Impact/Significance

The community of Nolic has a small but significant impact on the surrounding environment, with many residents involved in conservation efforts.

  • Cultural significance:
    • Navajo Nation Reservation
  • Social significance:
    • Limited access to healthcare and education

Nolic is connected to nearby communities through the following related topics:

  • Navajo Nation Reservation
  • Little Colorado River Dam
  • Flagstaff Regional Airport

References & Further Reading

References / Further Reading

  • American Community Survey (2019)
  • United States Census Bureau (2020)
  • The Navajo Nation Reservation website
  • Lake Powell website
American FactFinder

Sources

The following sources were referenced in the creation of this article. Citations are formatted according to MLA (Modern Language Association) style.

  1. 1.
    "American FactFinder." census.gov, https://www.census.gov/geo/maps/resource/statistical_area_maps.html. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
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