Chamber Information

The Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce is somewhat distinctive in the various roles it assumes within the community that encompasses the towns of Cedarville, Eagleville, Fort Bidwell and Lake City.

It not only serves to promote a healthy local business climate, but chamber members regularly welcome updates at their meetings by representatives from diverse organizations such as civic groups, government entities, youth groups and from business owners. One of its clear mandates is to promote, encourage and support a robust and satisfying quality of life for all residents within the valley.

Surprise Valley may appear to be a sleepy backwater cut off from the majority of Modoc County by the majestic Warner Mountain Range. Its quiet rural charms perhaps conceal its energetic, adept, and diverse populace.

Community activities often center around authentic and appetizing western or Basque barbecue, and annual highlights include the Super Bull Rodeo, Indian Pow Wows, and the chamber’s Squirrel Round-up each spring. Twice-monthly acoustic jam sessions in Cedarville are always well-attended by both musicians and those who simply enjoy listening and socializing.

Our membership is very active, hosting or participating in many other valley-wide events throughout the year. Please see our Calendar of Events here.

Annual individual, business or family memberships are a very reasonable $15 and are open to “everyone interested in the promotion and welfare of Surprise Valley.” Meetings are held every second and fourth Wednesday at noon in the Senior Citizen’s Center located on Main Street in Cedarville. Newcomers considering opening a local enterprise or who are just looking for a way to participate in community life are always welcome.
>> Click here to print a membership application.

Economic Profile

In addition to the region’s agricultural base, major Surprise Valley employers include the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Surprise Valley Hospital and Medical Clinic, and the Surprise Valley Joint Unified School District.

Other area residents have found creative and innovative ways to earn a living while residing in this remote and enchanting corner of California. The valley is home to numerous published authors, acclaimed artists and artisans. Despite the “old-fashioned” veneer, telecommuting is eminently feasible and increasingly popular.

Currently, projects in geothermal energy production, greenhouse seedling production, development of juniper crafts and other by-products of our prolific “nuisance” local tree, and many other progressive ventures are in the works.

Surprise Valley remains an excellent choice for business development: it has an educated, available workforce as well as exceedingly affordable housing and land, high-quality schools, a first-rate rural hospital, and a growing variety of ancillary services.

The Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce invites inquiries and has put together an information package detailing both the tangible and intangible benefits of relocating to this rugged, historic, pristinely beautiful, and warmly welcoming corner of paradise.
 >>Click here to request our information package.

Member Benefits

• Low cost internet exposure and link availability
• Brochures promoting Surprise Valley are placed in many prominent locations, including the California Welcome Center in Anderson
• Directly participate in the guided growth of our community and region
• Disperse significant annual funds to support local activities and projects that enhance the valley’s quality of life
• Network with Alturas Chamber and regional organizations promoting economic development, business expansion, employee training, and other resources

The Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce’s
2007 Highlights and Accomplishments:

• Hosted the 16th Annual Squirrel Roundup
• Prepared and served Basque BBQ at the Modoc District Fair
• Hosted the Country Christmas Faire with Santa and over 42 craft booths
• Supported 4-H/FFA students in the Junior Livestock Show   
• Decorated and maintained Main Street Christmas tree
• Selected and honored the Citizen of the Year
• Provided a “Merry Christmas” for several local families
• Planted flowers in front of local businesses   
• Awarded one $350 scholarship to a graduating SV student and one for a continuing education student
• Supported SV student sports programs
• Decorated locally for various holidays and events
• Sponsored decorating contests throughout the year, awarding cash prizes
• Operated the concession stand at the Modoc Super Bull Rodeo
• Promoted and posted a comprehensive Surprise Valley Calendar of Events
• Organized an All Valley Yard Sale in September
• Supported the Class of 2007’s Sober Grad activities
• Hosted and/or co-hosted various community potluck events when needed
• Supported local businesses with advertising in the Northern California Traveler, Modoc Independent Magazine Shasta Cascade Wonderland publication and by mailing information packets to travelers and prospective residents throughout the year
• Treated the local community & visitors to a “Harvest Hoedown” at the start of hunting season

To join the Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce,
please contact us at (530) 279-2001 or download our 2008 Membership Form
 and send it in with your payment.
 

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