From the 1850s to the early 1910s, lumber baron Orrin Henry Ingram was largely responsible for the deforestation of the valley and the subsequent establishment of many small towns in the area.

The region's agricultural products include milk, cheese, horseradish, kidney beans, apples, pumpkins, beef, and poultry.

Much of the regional economy is service-driven, although there is also a significant light-industrial segment, especially in high tech (mainly computers).

Historic sites include the Cook-Rutledge Mansion in Chippewa Falls, the Caddie Woodlawn Museum south of Downsville, the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts in Menomonie, and a number of exhibits in Eau Claire's Carson Park.

In addition, there are a number of sites listed by the National Register of Historic Places in the area.