Industry in Spokane WA

Natural resources have traditionally provided most of the economic activity for Spokane, a major center for the timber, agriculture, and mining industries. A large number of manufacturing companies have also located themselves in Spokane, drawn by the easy access to raw materials.

Finished wood products, metal refinery and fabrication, and food processing are among the leaders in manufacturing. The outlying areas are part of an vast agricultural system, providing a large percentage of the nation's apples, peas, hops, pears, asparagus, lentils, soft wheat, and sweet cherries.

More than 30 air freight companies operate facilities at Spokane International Airport, and the Burlington Northern and Union Pacific railroads also serve the city. Spokane has also seen the recent development of economic activity in the lucrative high-tech and biotech sectors. The city is the site of a 100-block wireless network- the largest of its kind in the country-which is seen as symbolic of its dedication to the development of technological opportunities and resources.