Icém


Icém is a municipality in the northern part of the state of São Paulo in Brazil. The population is 7,997 in an area of 362.59 km². It is part of the Microregion of São José do Rio Preto. It is also known as Princesa do Vale, or "Princess of the Valley." Icem is situated near the important urban centers of São José do Rio Preto, Olímpia, Catanduva, and Mirassol. The Marimbondo Dam, which forms a big reservoir in the Rio Grande, is situated close to Icém.

Transportation

Icém is served by two important highways, the BR-153, and SP-322. The nearest airport is 7 km away, in Fronteira, Minas Gerais.

Infrastructure

Icém possesses a good basic infrastructure, that serves 100% of the population with electricity, water treatment and sewer and garbage collection. Communication and health care infrastructure is satisfactory as well. City streets are 100% paved and Icem has a low crime rate.
The nearby valley of the Grande river is a tourist destination, because of its natural environment, waterways and leisure activities.
Among Icéms many points of interest are: Lago de Marimbondo, Praia Mariana, Desertinho, Rio Grande, the Marimbondo hydroelectric dam, Complexo da Usininha, Vila da Usininha, Mata da Água Doce, Cânions da Usininha, Braço do Rio Grande and Córrego da Água Doce.

Rio Grande

The Rio Grande, or "Big River," flows from the Maribondo Hydroelectric Plant's reservoir. Its current is fast and strong, and one can appreciate many interesting rock formations and fine-sand beaches on along its shores. The area has a wide variety of flora and fauna, which includes otters and 170 species of native fish.

Agricultural tourism

Icém's diverse farms, which produce agricultural goods and cattle, are popular among visitors.

Events

The city of Icém is one of the region's better-known cultural centers. It offers events such as ballet, soccer and its year-end festivities. Its main event is the rodeo-- Peão de Rodeio de Icém. Icém's soccer team, is tri-champion of the Copa Minas-São Paulo.