Cowichan Valley RD

With stunning scenery, a relaxed rural lifestyle, and more sunshine than the mainland coast, Cowichan is growing as a desirable location for new residents and businesses.

CONVENIENT LOCATION

Centrally located on Vancouver Island between Victoria and Nanaimo, the Cowichan Region is made up of four municipalities including the urban core area of Duncan and the District of North Cowichan. The balance of the region contains a substantial rural area, as well as the towns of Lake Cowichan and Ladysmith.

ECONOMY

The backbone of the Cowichan Region’s industrial economy is the forestry sector. Despite the many changes that this primary industry has faced in recent years, value-added forestry and manufacturing continues to be a strong economic sector.

Tourism now plays a significant role in the area ’s economic profile, owing to the region’s natural scenic beauty. A new breed of savvy outdoor adventurer is creating opportunities in the eco-tourism and packaged getaways sector. The sector is also being strengthened by a successful, high-profile wine industry and a growing marine tourism market.

Some of the region’s other key features include over 75 bed and breakfast facilities, the renowned Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre (native village), the BC Forest Discovery Centre and Museum, the Chemainus Murals, as well as many gorgeous lakes, rivers and beaches.

The Cowichan Region has more than 600 working farms covering over 34,000 acres. Dairy farming is the main agricultural activity, however there are many nurseries, specialty farms and vineyards as well. Approximately 75 of these farms are dedicated vegetable growers, and are helping to generate a renewed economic focus on agri-food production.

The region is home to a growing number of diversified small manufacturers whose products range from seafood preparation, concrete product manufacturing, finely crafted wood furniture, to retail and com- mercial bakeries. The central location on Vancouver Island makes it very convenient for shipping to other Island markets or by ferry to the mainland coast.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS - EXPERIENCE THE COWICHAN

In the Cowichan, you get the best of what Island living has to offer, plus all of the amenities you and your family need to thrive. We’re an ideal blend of urban and rural, with easy access to major services and supports, and all the recreational benefits of coastal life. We’re vibrant, diverse and affordable … and our climate is one of the best in Canada.