Employment Incentives

There are a number of incentives available to hire the unemployed or the underemployed in targeted populations. Forest products and the fishing/aquaculture industry, although reduced in size, still play a part in the local industrial base in both counties. Several large dairies (both organic and conventional) are also quite successful, with their products exported throughout the western US. Tourism plays a seasonal but significant part of the local economy in both counties, with numerous state and national parks located in the area.

Humboldt County is known for niche market manufacturers and a creative community of entrepreneurs. There is a California State University campus –Humboldt State University, located in Arcata, making it a year-round employer’s market. Skilled labor in light manufacturing and modest fees for labor training are available through the local community college, College of the Redwoods, located in Eureka, and other local agencies.

Del Norte also has a branch campus of College of the Redwoods, located in Crescent City. The main industries are associated with forest products, fishing, health care, tourism, and Pelican Bay State Prison located north of Crescent City. Del Norte County is also the home to Redwood National and State Parks, and the Smith River National Recreation Area which includes most of the Smith River, the largest undammed watershed in the lower 48 states. More than 75 percent of Del Norte County is public lands, providing unparalleled opportunities for nature-based recreation.