Economic Development

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Economic Development

District of Vanderhoof, Economic Development Planning

Quality of life is considered high in the district for reasons of access to affordability of recreation property, experiences and opportunities. The District of Vanderhoof continues to look for and implement ways in which to enhance economic stability further by improving quality of life with long-term views of enhancing community infrastructure, the arts community, downtown revitalization, partnering with neighboring communities and providing access to entrepreneurial leadership.

Agriculture

Agriculture has also been crucial in the development of Vanderhoof since the first settlers arrived in the area in 1914, coming in response to the promise of affordable land made available by the Federal Government and the Grand Trunk Railway Company. A large acreage of comparatively flat land surrounding Vanderhoof is recognized as among the most favorable for farming in the Northern Interior.

Most of the land is used to produce hay, grain and other fodder crops for beef and dairy cattle, which provide the bulk of the agricultural income. Local manufacturers and producers access domestic and export markets for their goods including cattle, dairy, sheep, swine, ostrich and forage crops.

Forestry, Mining, Other Sectors

Vanderhoof continues to support and encourage its forest, agriculture, mining, service and tourism sectors. Commercial service, secondary industries, construction, transportation and eco-and cultural tourism are leading-edge areas that are particularly suited for the Stuart Nechako Region with its wealth of natural resources, cultural diversity and skilled work force. Home-based employment is a growing presence, as is the profile of remote lodge tourism products.

Education & Housing

All categories of housing are less expensive in Vanderhoof than in all parts of the province. Vanderhoof can boast that it is a safe community, with a crime rate less than the BC average. The school district is the largest employer, and though a small community Vanderhoof has excellent access to local post-secondary education through The College of New Caledonia and is only one hour away from the University of Northern British Columbia.

Tourism

The main tourism potential lies in the vast range of outdoor opportunities possible on the relatively accessible Nechako Plateau with its almost 1,000 fish-bearing lakes and streams. In 2004, the forest recreation sites saw 22,000 user days and many locals have recreation properties or homes on nearby lakes.

Tourism BC – Information for Vanderhoof and Area

British Columbia

British Columbia continues to be a leader in the country’s growth for the second year in a row. Second only to Alberta, British Columbia’s real economic growth is forecast for 3.5 per cent in 2005 and 3.2 per cent in 2006. British Columbia leads the country in job creation with 205,600 jobs created since December 2001.