Economic Development

Presently, the community is actively pursuing new light industry and commercial ventures; we are no longer primarily a single industry community. Clearwater abounds with outdoor recreation opportunities, fully serviced residential and commercial properties and, most important, a community prepared to encourage new business enterprise. For those entrepreneurs interested in business, Clearwater is the perfect place to establish a business. Contact the District Economic Development Officer at 250-674-2257 for more information on establishing a business in our community.

Clearwater’s climate, relaxing lifestyle and low cost of living is well suited for seniors and young working families. The community offers a safe and peaceful lifestyle that includes the amenities of a sustainable community including education, health care and recreational opportunities. A medical centre and full service hospital provides health care. Emergency services include a fire department, R.C.M.P. detachment and ambulance service. Education is available from kindergarten to grade 12 and post-secondary opportunities are available at the Community Resource Centre for the North Thompson and Thompson Rivers University outreach program. Recreational opportunities abound in the area with up to date facilities and a wilderness backcountry. Current infrastructure, which includes a modern seweage and water system, is capable of serving almost double the current population. Other services include financial, legal and realty offices, a mini mall, grocery store and over 135 other businesses to serve one's needs. We are the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park.

In December 2005, Community Futures completed an economic development overview for the area. To view a copy of the North Thompson Economic Development Strategic Plan visit the link http://www.communityfutures.net/ced_project.htm

You can view the Community Futures Community Profile for Clearwater and the Upper North Thompson by visiting the following link

http://www.communityfutures.net/community_profiles.htm

Economic Base

Forestry, tourism and ranching form a diversified economic base for the area. Forestry is the dominant industry; however tourism is expanding the quickest. The phenomenal growth of tourism is characterized by a substantial increase in tourism based businesses throughout the area and the recognition as a destination vacation spot. Ranching, though small in scale, still represents substantial importance to the local economy.

For more information on business please refer to the Clearwater and District Chamber of Commerce website or by calling 250-674-2646