Similkameen Valley Agritourism Strategy 2025-2035
The Similkameen Country Development Association is leading a valley-wide agri-tourism strategy designed to strengthen the local economy and celebrate the region’s cultural roots. By enhancing quality of life, creating jobs across tourism, agriculture and hospitality, and encouraging community engagement, the strategy aims to deliver a strong return on investment. The Similkameen Valley has a significant opportunity to develop a robust agri-tourism sector that educates visitors, provides diverse experiences and supports long-term economic sustainability.
This strategy is built around five core priorities that align with local strengths, address regional needs, and respond to broader market trends:
- Organizational Development
- Industry Education & Development
- Product Development
- Marketing & Collaboration
- Destination Development
This strategy was created to support the entire Similkameen Valley, fostering collaboration and shared success. It is an open resource for existing businesses, new entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in exploring opportunities in agri-tourism.
The first step is the creation of an Agri-tourism Development Task Force, made up of passionate local voices from across the industry. This group will guide the implementation of the strategy, ensuring it reflects the diversity, values and strengths of the Similkameen.
Interested in getting involved? Email admin@similkameencountry.org for more information.
The Similkameen Country Development Association gratefully acknowledges the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) – Government of BC funding for this initiative.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge that the Similkameen Valley is the ancestral, traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx Nation, and is home to the Upper Similkameen Indian Band—the Similamix People—and the Lower Similkameen Indian Band—the Smelqmix People.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia, the Similkameen Valley is a hidden gem renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant communities, and thriving agricultural heritage. This strategy aims to position the Similkameen Valley as a premier agritourism destination, enhancing the region’s appeal and economic resilience through sustainable and engaging agricultural experiences.
In recent years, the tourism and agricultural sectors in British Columbia have faced numerous challenges, resulting in dramatic changes over a short period. As a response, this agritourism strategy is designed to be a living document, continuously evolving to adapt to new realities, emerging markets, and innovative funding sources. The strategy underscores the importance of collaboration, sustainability, and community engagement, reflecting the region’s commitment to authenticity and responsible tourism.
The process of developing this strategy was comprehensive and involved primary and secondary research, interest holder engagement, SWOT analysis, and the formulation of strategic priorities and action items. The vision for 2035 is clear: to be recognized as a premier agritourism destination in British Columbia, with a unique brand that highlights the rugged, rustic, and real essence of the Similkameen Valley.
Through this strategy, the Similkameen Valley will create immersive and fulfilling agritourism experiences that attract visitors from near and far, fostering a deeper connection to the land and its agricultural heritage. By leveraging the region’s strengths and addressing its challenges, the Similkameen Valley can achieve sustainable growth, enhance the visitor experience, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.
LOOKING AHEAD
Through agritourism, Similkameen Valley has an exciting opportunity to invite visitors to connect with the people and places that bring the region’s agricultural heritage to life. The following statement describes Similkameen Valley’s vision for the future. 10-Year Vision Statement
“Similkameen Valley will be recognized as a premier agritourism destination in British Columbia by 2025.”
Outcomes
- There is an impactful and sustainable collaboration framework in place to support agritourism development in the Similkameen Valley.
- There is significantly more agritourism products available to visitors. The product maintains high standards to ensure visitors are delighted by their experience and become advocates.
- Visitors are travelling to Similkameen Valley in increasing numbers to experience the region’s high-quality agritourism offerings.
- Similkameen Valley has a clear, compelling, and unique brand that sets it apart as an agritourism destination.
- New and existing agritourism operators have a clear development pathway that they can follow to start and/or grow their businesses.
- Agritourism is recognized by communities as a key driver for economic growth and diversification of the visitor economy in the Similkameen Valley.
- Agritourism is contributing to the strength and sustainability of the broader agricultural sector in the Similkameen Valley.
- Similkameen Valley is becoming known across Canada and around the world as a destination for high-quality agritourism experiences.
