Agriculture and Range

Farms and rangelands help sustain the local and regional economy. About 3% of the area (~31,500 hectares) is in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), with equal amounts on Crown and private land. The ALR includes land designated by the Province for agricultural purposes.

Agricultural land uses include forage production and ranching, as well as fallow deer, vegetable production, ginseng, agritourism and tree fruit production. Alternate crops, herbs and grape production provide further opportunities for diversification.

Rangelands are primarily Crown land areas that provide suitable forage for domestic livestock and wildlife.

Almost all available rangeland is under tenure although opportunities exist for range enhancement. Cattle grazing occurs primarily along the Yalakom, Bridge, Thompson and Fraser River systems. Horse grazing for commercial guide outfitting and packing ventures occurs mainly in the northwest (see map).

Agriculture and Range