The following paragraph, taken directly from the Fraser Basin Council web site, describes the economic output of the entire Fraser Basin.
The Basin contributes 80% of the provincial economic output and 65% of total household income. It contains 21 million hectares of forest – more than three times the area of New Brunswick. Its farms, ranches and orchards compromise half of all BC's agricultural lands. Eight major mines in the Basin account for 60% of BC's metal mine production. In addition, some of the province's – and the world's – most spectacular natural beauty and recreational opportunities abound in this area, contributing 67% of total tourism revenue.
Farming, forestry and fishing are three of the primary economic activities in the Heart of the Fraser region.
Farming. Millenia of seasonal flooding created a fertile valley along the Fraser that extends from the canyon to the delta at the river's mouth. The rich alluvial soil, combined with a temperate climate, created ideal conditions for agriculture. The farmland along the Gravel Reach is some of the richest in Canada, and agriculture is one of three primary economic activities in the region. Today, the lower Fraser Valley produces over half of B.C.'s agricultural products.
Forestry. The Fraser's Gravel Reach lies within the Coastal Western Hemlock biogeoclimatic zone, a zone characterized by temperate, largely coniferous rainforests. The abundant forests have made the forestry sector a mainstay of the economy.
Fishing. The regional economy over the past century has depended significantly on the presence of salmon. The Fraser is one of the most important salmon rivers in the world. Fishing and associated industries are the historical foundation of economic development along the lower Fraser.
Access the Fraser Basin Council reports for more information on the economy.