The District of Metchosin is a coastal community of just over 5000 people in the metro Greater Victoria region of British Columbia. It is part of the Western Communities and one of the 13 regional municipalities. Many Metchosians are operators of small farms (vegetables, orchards, poultry, sheep, some pigs and cattle). Most are retired or work outside the community. There are also many home based businesses (everything from massage and dentistry to international consulting). Located on the edge of a rapidly growing urban area, Metchosin is subject to a variety of pressures.