The region is experiencing economic and demographic shifts. The traditional economy, centered around fishing and forestry, is generally in decline while tourism is expanding. There is an influx of new residents seeking a better quality of life in an area rich with natural amenities. Some bring their business with them; others are retirees. Concurrently, young people tend to leave the area. The population numbers are generally stable, but aging.
The western portion of Estuaria is largely rural with Astoria, Oregon (pop; 10,000) serving as the civic and cultural hub. Astoria has a rich history, with European settlement beginning over 200 years ago, displacing the native tribes present as long as 15,000 years.
Astoria’s downtown was rebuilt during the 1920s after a devastating fire. Many of the homes gracing the hillside above downtown date from the late 1800s.
The Portland metropolitan area is about 100 miles distant, leaving Estuaria somewhat isolated. Nonetheless, the local economy has naturally diversified and is weathering the current recession with surprising resilience. We speculate that the resourceful locals and the creative newcomers can share credit.
The challenge is to further develop economic resilience through appropriate diversification. To the Columbia River Business Alliance this means maintaining and growing existing small businesses, striving to keep business profits within the communities, and attracting environmentally and culturally beneficial new development.