Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies: A Briefing

Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies is a federal electoral district in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It is a vast and sprawling area located in the northeast region of the province.

Population Centres

The district boasts several population centres, including Prince George, Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, and Tumbler Ridge. Prince George, with a population of approximately 74,000 people, is the largest city in the district and serves as a major transportation hub for the region. Fort St. John and Dawson Creek are also significant communities, known for their agricultural and energy sectors, respectively. Tumbler Ridge is a smaller town that is home to several natural attractions, including Kinuseo Falls and the Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark.

Issues and Events

Between the years 2019 and 2022, the district has faced several significant news events and issues. One major local issue has been the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the region's economy and healthcare system. Another issue affecting the district has been the ongoing debate around resource extraction and development in the region, particularly with regards to the forestry and oil and gas sectors.

Economy

The economy of Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies is heavily focused on resource extraction and processing. Major employers in the district include the oil and gas industry, forestry, and mining. Other significant industries in the district include agriculture, transportation, and healthcare. In recent years, the district has been impacted by fluctuating commodity prices, as well as environmental and social pressures on the resource extraction sector.

Important Landmarks

The district is home to several important landmarks and natural attractions, including:

• Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
• Kinuseo Falls, a stunning waterfall located near Tumbler Ridge
• Williston Lake, the largest man-made reservoir in British Columbia
• The Peace River, which runs over 1,000 km through the district and is an important waterway for transportation and recreation

Arts and Culture

The district has a rich cultural scene, with several major cultural events and institutions. The Prince George Symphony Orchestra performs regularly throughout the year, while the Two Rivers Gallery showcases contemporary art from local and regional artists. The Northern BC Museum is a major cultural centre, with exhibits focused on the history and culture of the region.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, economic and social issues were at the forefront of the district's concerns. These included issues around resource extraction and development, healthcare, and job creation.

Community Organizations

Several important economic and social community organizations in the district include:

• The Northern Development Initiative Trust, which provides funding and support for economic development projects in the region
• The Northern Rockies Seniors Society, which provides support and services for senior citizens in the district
• The Northern Lights College, which offers educational programs and training for students in the region
• The Fort St. John Women's Resource Society, which provides resources and support for women and families in the community
• The Tumbler Ridge Museum Foundation, which promotes the preservation and interpretation of the region's natural and cultural heritage

Multicultural Groups

Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies is a culturally diverse district, with significant demographic segments including Indigenous communities, immigrants, and refugees. One of the largest Indigenous communities in the district is the Fort Nelson First Nation, while the Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society works to support newcomers to the region.

Overall, Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies is a diverse and dynamic district that is home to a rich array of cultural institutions, natural attractions, and economic opportunities.