Clovis, New Mexico
Clovis, New Mexico Overview
Geographical Landscape
Clovis is located in eastern New Mexico, near the Texas border, in Curry County. It sits on the Llano Estacado, a vast plateau that extends into both New Mexico and Texas. The landscape around Clovis is predominantly flat, with wide-open plains typical of the high plains region, making it suitable for agriculture and ranching. The area is known for its expansive sky, with unobstructed views stretching for miles.
At an elevation of about 4,300 feet, Clovis experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers, cool winters, and minimal precipitation. The lack of significant topographical features creates a dry, windy environment that is well-suited for agriculture, particularly dairy farming and crop production. Clovis is strategically located along U.S. Route 60 and U.S. Route 84, making it an important transportation and agricultural hub in the region.
Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Clovis had a population of approximately 39,000 people. The city has a diverse population, with about 45% identifying as Hispanic or Latino, 42% as White, and smaller percentages of African American, Native American, and other ethnic groups. The presence of Cannon Air Force Base brings a transient military population, adding to the diversity of the city.
Clovis has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 30. The city's demographics are shaped by a mix of families, military personnel, and agricultural workers, contributing to its dynamic and growing community. The city is also a regional hub for smaller nearby towns, providing services, retail, and employment opportunities.
Financial Details and Economic Landscape
Clovis has a diversified economy, with key industries including agriculture, military, transportation, and retail. The city is a major center for dairy farming and agriculture, with numerous dairies and farms producing milk, cheese, and other dairy products. Additionally, crops such as corn, wheat, and sorghum are grown in the surrounding area, supporting both local and regional markets.
Cannon Air Force Base, located just west of Clovis, is a major economic driver, providing jobs for both military personnel and civilians. The base supports special operations and training missions, contributing significantly to the local economy. The transportation and logistics sectors also play an important role, as Clovis is located along major highways and rail lines that connect New Mexico to Texas and other parts of the U.S.
Key industries in Clovis:
Agriculture and Dairy: One of the largest dairy-producing regions in New Mexico, with significant crop farming.
Military: Cannon Air Force Base is a key economic contributor, supporting both defense operations and local businesses.
Transportation and Logistics: Clovis is a regional transportation hub, with connections to major highways and rail lines.
Retail and Services: A growing retail sector serves the local population and nearby communities.
Notable Businesses and Establishments
Clovis is home to a variety of businesses and institutions that support its economy and serve the community. Notable establishments include:
Cannon Air Force Base: One of the largest employers in the region, supporting military personnel and civilian workers involved in defense and special operations missions.
Southwest Cheese: One of the largest cheese plants in the world, producing a significant portion of the nation’s cheese and providing hundreds of jobs.
Plains Regional Medical Center: The primary healthcare facility in Clovis, providing medical services to the city and surrounding areas.
Clovis Community College: A key educational institution offering associate degrees and workforce development programs that support the local economy.
BNSF Railway: A major railroad operator with facilities in Clovis, contributing to the city’s role as a transportation and logistics hub.
In addition to these large employers, Clovis has a growing number of small businesses, retail stores, and restaurants that cater to both residents and visitors.
Restaurants in Clovis
Clovis offers a range of dining options, with a strong emphasis on New Mexican, Mexican, and American cuisines. Some notable restaurants include:
Leal’s Mexican Restaurant: A popular local spot known for its authentic Mexican food, including tacos, enchiladas, and tamales, with a focus on green and red chile.
The Iron Horse Pub: A casual restaurant and bar serving American comfort food, including burgers, steaks, and sandwiches.
Thai City: A well-regarded restaurant offering traditional Thai dishes, including curries, noodles, and stir-fry.
Cotton Patch Café: A family-friendly restaurant offering Southern comfort food, including chicken-fried steak, mashed potatoes, and catfish.
Rib Crib BBQ: Known for its barbecue dishes, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, offering a taste of classic American barbecue in a laid-back setting.
In addition to these local favorites, Clovis has several national chain restaurants and fast-food options that serve the area’s residents and military personnel.
Notable Events
Clovis hosts several annual events that celebrate the city’s culture, history, and community spirit:
Clovis Music Festival (September): A celebration of Clovis’s rich musical heritage, particularly its connection to rock and roll pioneer Norman Petty, who recorded artists like Buddy Holly at his studio in Clovis. The festival features live performances, tours of the Norman Petty Studios, and music-themed activities.
Clovis Ethnic Fair (August): A cultural event that showcases the diversity of Clovis through food, music, dance, and crafts from various ethnic groups represented in the community.
Curry County Fair (August): A major event for Clovis, featuring carnival rides, livestock shows, rodeos, and entertainment. The fair highlights the agricultural roots of the region and draws visitors from across eastern New Mexico and West Texas.
Draggin’ Main Music Festival (June): A car show and music festival celebrating the classic American car culture, featuring vintage car parades, live music, and food vendors along Clovis’s historic Main Street.
Tourism Impact
Tourism in Clovis is driven by its unique history, connection to rock and roll, and the presence of cultural festivals. The Clovis Music Festival, which celebrates the legacy of Norman Petty Studios, draws music enthusiasts and rock and roll historians to the area. The festival’s connection to Buddy Holly and other early rock pioneers adds to Clovis’s appeal as a destination for music lovers.
Agricultural events, such as the Curry County Fair, attract both locals and visitors from nearby communities, supporting local businesses and highlighting the region’s farming and ranching heritage. Additionally, the city’s location near Cannon Air Force Base brings military personnel and their families to the area, contributing to the local economy through retail, services, and housing.
Conclusion
Clovis, New Mexico, is a dynamic city with a diversified economy rooted in agriculture, military, and transportation. The presence of Cannon Air Force Base and the city’s role as a regional agricultural hub contribute to its economic stability and growth. Clovis’s cultural heritage, particularly its connection to early rock and roll through Norman Petty Studios, along with its annual festivals, enhances the city’s appeal to both residents and tourists. With its strong community ties, growing retail sector, and importance as a transportation hub, Clovis continues to play a vital role in eastern New Mexico’s economy and culture.
