Title: Washington Economy: Washington Agriculture and Industry
Headings: Washington Economy
Washington Economy
Agriculture and Industry in Washington
Washington Agriculture and Industry
Washington Agriculture:
Washington Industry:

Content: Water is central to the economy of Washington, and although the state borders the Pacific Ocean, it is the Columbia River that has the greatest impact. From its earliest use by Native Americans as a travel route and a source of salmon in their diet to the more modern use of hydroelectric power generated by the Grand Coulee Dam, the Columbia River is crucial. Along with the Columbia River, the Snake River and the Yakima River contribute to the irrigation system that is required for successful agriculture in the area. This irrigation enables Washington to support a successful food processing industry that includes fruit production, vineyards, and dairy farming. Washington leads the nation in the production of apples, sweet cherries and pears. The state is also a major producer of wheat, corn, onions, potatoes, apricots, grapes and other fruits. There are also abundant fishing resources including salmon, halibut, bottom fish, oysters, and crabs. More than half the state's area is forested, so the lumber and wood-products industries have always been important to the state of Washington. Many of the state's cities, including Tacoma, Bellingham, and Seattle, began as sawmill centers, and lumber, pulp and paper are among their major products. Other important industries in Washington include chemicals and primary metals, particularly aluminum.