The Cascades West Region boasts a varied economy with an inherent resilience that comes from its diversified industries. But what makes the Cascades West Economic Development District so special, so unique?

Is it the educational opportunities provided by two outstanding Research Universities and three Community Colleges? The Marine Research?

Is it the Marine industries? Is it Micro/Nano & Semiconductor innovators?

Is it the varied geography and the people? Is it the agricultural wealth of the Willamette Valley? The vineyards in the hills?

It is a combination of all these and more.

It’s also a vibrant lifestyle surrounded by some of the most beautiful places on earth.

Here are just a few of the beauties to be found in the Cascades West Region.

Video directed and created by: Dianna Cotter Skelly, Community Service Center, Community Planning Workshop, University of Oregon, Cascades West Economic Development District, Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

Team: Amanda D’Souza, Project Manager, Fabio De Andrade, Kelsey Klezvor, Blake Helm, and Dianna C. Skelly.

About the Author: Dianna Skelly is a non-traditional graduate student seeking a Masters in Community and Regional Planning following her undergraduate degree in Emergency and Disaster Management and Certificate in Homeland Security from American Military University. She is a proud mother of two children, and she has lived in Oregon for most of her 45 years. Her hobbies include voraciously reading books of all kinds, yoga, and spending time with loved ones.