Before the war, British Columbia was treated as a unique "back door" to the Pacific and considered by many as one of Canada's playgrounds. Visitors were often enchanted by the scenery but were not aware of the rich bounty of the region including forests, mountains and the sea. The lumber and pulp and paper industries represent the greatest livelihood for thousands of B.C. citizens. The fast-growing mining industry with its roots back to Gold Rush days and the extensive commercial fisheries which provide more than 1/2 the fish production in Canada, are also important.