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Employment opportunities are scarce in rural areas as people -- and jobs -- move to cities. In the last two decades of the 20th century, the number of rural workers employed on farms was cut in half as farming methods became more efficient. According to USDA, 80 percent of all rural Americans now earn their living from nonfarm sources.

Enhancing the economic viability of rural communities is one of Cascade Pacific's goals. That's why we assist programs that create and maintain rural jobs while protecting natural resources.

For example, the Oregon Country Trails program, started in 2005, brings urban shoppers to over 65 rural businesses in Benton, Lane and Lincoln Counties. Visitors can stop by restaurants, wineries, alpaca farms, quilt shops, farmers' markets and more through self-guided tours along the Trails. There's also online shopping available through the nation's first rural business collaborative Web site and online shopping cart at oregoncountrytrails.com. This model program -- "Where the suits meet the boots" -- embraces Cascade Pacific's strategy of working from the grassroots upwards.

Oregon Country Trails Currently representing over 65 rural businesses, entrepreneurs, tours and adventures -- with more on the way. Explore the Oregon Country Trails

REGIONAL PROGRAMS • Jobs