Region 8 consists of Jackson and Josephine counties and is located on the border with California, approximately halfway between Portland and San Francisco. Major industries in the region include wood products, agriculture, and tourism. Employment in wood products has fallen in recent years, but an increase in food manufacturing employment has somewhat offset the loss. Growth of the retirement sector has added employment in retail trade and services, especially health care.
The Oregon Shakespearean Festival is located in Ashland, as is Southern Oregon University. Rogue Community College has its main campus in Grants Pass and its branch in Jackson County is growing.
Region 8 consists of Jackson and Josephine counties and is located on the border with California, approximately halfway between Portland and San Francisco. Major industries in the region include wood products, agriculture, and tourism. Employment in wood products has fallen in recent years, but an increase in food manufacturing employment has somewhat offset the loss. Growth of the retirement sector has added employment in retail trade and services, especially health care.