New funding for value-added wood producers and manufacturing businesses in the Kootenays will protect workforces and support strong communities.

More tree-fruit growers and their orchards will benefit from time-sensitive advice about pest management as B.C.-adapted software becomes available in the Kootenays, which will help stabilize the sector and strengthen B.C.’s food security.

Under the BC Rural Dividend Program, the Government of British Columbia is providing nearly $100,000 to Kootenay Employment Services Society for a project to support employment, business and community in the Creston area.

Two Kootenay-based social enterprises are getting a face lift while seven job-seekers are gaining valuable work experience in the process.

A Creston farm that houses and employs people with disabilities will be able to thrive as a result of more than $84,000 in provincial funding.

The idea of eating all locally made, baked and grown products is a reality for Creston Valley residents.

The Province is increasing the area covered by the Creston community forest agreement.

Businesses in Creston that want to learn about returning to PST are invited to take part in a seminar held Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013.