Our region’s eastern skyline is dominated by the tallest summit in the southern Rocky Mountains, namely Fisher Peak.
Wood Products Manufacturing
The wood industry is an integral part of our region’s economy and history. Here, in the Rocky Mountain Forest District, we are surrounded by 2.6 million hectares of montane forest. The District (headquartered in Cranbrook) offers an annual harvest of over 1.6 million cubic metres. It’s no wonder that one of the world’s largest producers of sustainable lumber, pulp and paper chooses to do business here.
More recently, we’ve attracted the attention of Canada’s third largest pulp and paper company. In and around the Cranbrook-Kimberley Development Zone you’ll also find several small- to medium-scale sawmills, supplying lumber to industry-leading companies and local builders.
Strong past. Bright future.
With easy access to a steady supply of wood waste, businesses in the Cranbrook-Kimberley Development Zone are in an ideal position to excel in the high growth marketplace for bio-products. What’s more, the region has tons of available land that’s already zoned for manufacturing.
Supported by a stable and diverse agriculture industry, our region offers vast opportunities for entrepreneurs in the biofuel subsector.
Wildfire mitigation
The lush forests of larch, pine and fir provide a beautiful backdrop to those living in our region, but they also pose a threat. Wildfire mitigation is a top priority for elected community leaders and our residents. With that comes unique opportunities for entrepreneurs interested in seizing unmerchantable wood.
Now that we’ve piqued your interest, here are some other reasons why investing in our region’s bio-economy make sense:
- Skilled workforce: As an employer, you’ll have access to a database of skilled and highly motivated workers.
- Proximity: We are only an hour from Canada’s largest trade partner and just a few hours from Alberta’s third largest municipality.
- Shipping and receiving: Shipping and transport infrastructure are in place, including air, rail and multi-modal facilities.
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