Agriculture

Agriculture is an essential part of Chilliwack’s community identity. It has been part of our history and it is a significant portion of our present, with approximately 64% (17,051 hectares) of our land dedicated to agriculture. Agriculture in Chilliwack accounts for 6% of our GDP, which is strong in comparison to the provincial BC average of 3%.

The Economic Strength of Chilliwack Agriculture
From its 828 farms, Chilliwack’s agricultural sector gains approximately $252M in annual gross farm receipts. Dairy farming accounts for almost half of all farm revenues in Chilliwack. In fact, Chilliwack is home to the largest farm in Canada. Also, the poultry, vegetable and berry production, floriculture and nursery industries play a growing and crucial role in the region’s economy.
The City also gains substantial economic spin-offs through such agricultural supporting industries as feed, fertilizer, chemicals, machinery, and fuel. As well, agriculture attracts its fair share of investment activity with approximately $1.6B in land and buildings.

The Future of Chilliwack Agriculture
The City of Chilliwack is committed to increasing and improving agriculture in our community. Efforts have been initiated to attract new agricultural businesses and to help the City’s existing agricultural businesses
grow, expand, and diversify. New technologies and changing demographics are creating opportunities and market niches for a whole new variety of goods and services.

Employment
Agriculture is one of the City’s major employers and is essential to Chilliwack’s economy, providing annual cash wages over $34M. Like most other places, Chilliwack has experienced trends towards larger farms, decreased labour in commodity productions, and more high-tech applications of equipment and production techniques such as hydroponics.