Lesser Slave River No. 124, M.D. of

Welcome

The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River welcomes your interest in our community.

Whether you are looking at making a personal move to the area, relocating or establishing a business here, we hope that you find the information contained in this profile helpful and informative.

The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River is located in the heart of Alberta and pulses with the energy of all that is "Rugged & Real" in a community. The "Rugged and Real" slogan also reflects both the benefits and challenges of the unparalleled opportunities for those who seek entrepreneurial excitement and relaxing lifestyles.

The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River encompasses 10,150 km² within which some 2800 people reside - primarily in, and around, six small communities. Its appeal is much broader, however. Many persons commute from neighbouring municipalities to earn their livings from the thriving oil, gas and forestry industries. Others increasingly travel from more distant locales to enjoy the outdoor recreational opportunities that the area presents.

Charged with stewardship of this rich and vibrant region, Municipal District Council and Administration have adopted prudent planning and inter-municipal cooperative efforts with the Town of Slave Lake to ensure that both the economic prosperity and natural beauty are preserved for future generations.

Area Overview

The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River is a two to three hour drive (depending upon your destination within) northwest of Edmonton. Located in the Boreal Plains Region of north-central Alberta, the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River is characterized by a dry, sub-humid climate with warm summers and cool winters.

The largest service centre is the Town of Slave Lake, located at the southeastern tip of Lesser Slave Lake. Its elevation is 582 metres, and can be viewed from the summit of Marten Mountain, 18 kilometres to the north, at 983 metres above sea level.

The eastern portion of Lesser Slave Lake, one of Alberta’s largest lakes, lies within M.D. boundaries. It drains into the Lesser Slave River, which flows for 35 km into the Athabasca water system, one of the major drainage conduits for western Canada. Smaller rivers and streams also form part of the diverse topography and ecosystems, marked by mixed-wood forests, rolling foothills of the Pelican Mountains and Swan Hills, and some farmland; primarily in the southeastern sector.

Lakes and Rivers

Situated within the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River are a number of lakes and rivers which provide many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it is fishing, camping, hiking, or water recreation, you can enjoy it here.

	108 km long, 19 km wide (at widest point) Area: 1,168km2, Elevation: 577m Largest lake within Alberta's borders Home of Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park World-Class fishing (Walleye, Pike, Perch) Warm, shallow water Ocean-like views 27 km of continuous white sandy beaches
Lesser Slave River Only water exit for the Lesser Slave Lake Approximately 35 kilometres long Windingly flows into the Athabasca water system World-Class fishing (Walleye, Pike, Perch)
	Athabasca River Longest river in Alberta A major drainage conduit for western Canada Winds 1,538 kilometres to Lake Athabasca Many recreational opportunities
Fawcett Lake Great fishing opportunities Fawcett Lake Provincial Recreation Area Tourism destination for people from urban areas Flows into Lesser Slave River Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV/ATV) Trails
	Marten Mountain Located in Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park The summit overlooks Lesser Slave Lake Highest point in the region Elevation: 983 metres above sea level Several hiking trails

Location

Click here for a detailed, interactive map of Northern Alberta.

Economic Base

Economic Strengths

The M.D. of Lesser Slave River’s solid financial position is largely the result of enviable supplies of natural resources. Throughout the past three decades the economic growth, generated initially by the petroleum industry and later by forestry, has contributed to a strong assessment base. Concentrated in the southeast region of the M.D., farming has always played a role, albeit a lesser one relative to resource extraction.

In keeping with sound planning principles, the Municipal District is encouraging economic diversification, focusing on increasing the role of a burgeoning tourism trade, manufacturing, and value-added opportunities. Additionally, the growing cottage and home-based business sector is strengthening diversity.

Mitsue Industrial Park

Mitsue Industrial Park is located 8 km east of the Town of Slave Lake in the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River. This park is a major industrial subdivision which, in addition to several small businesses is the location of four wood processing facilities (soon to be 5), two gas plants, and a waste / product management service for oilfield services. Those facilities employ approximately 2000 people. (directly and indirectly)

Industry Profiles

The Regional Forestry Industry

The Annual Allowable Cut (AAC) for the Lesser Slave Lake area is approximately 4 million m³. Manufactured wood products from all mills include: pulp, OSB, veneer plywood, dimensional lumber, woodchips, and pellets. Three lumber companies account for the bulk of activity in this industry within the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River.

West Fraser Timber operates Slave Lake Pulp and Alberta Plywood in the Mitsue Industrial Park. It also operates Seehta Forest Products located in Red Earth Creek, just north of the Municipal District boundaries.

Tolko Industries enhanced their presence in the area in 2003 when it purchased an Oriented Strand Board (OSB) Plant in the Mitsue Industrial Park. Construction of a new greenfield (OSB) plant in Slave Lake is set to begin in Spring 2006. This $200 million facility will provide 130 direct jobs in the mill and up to an additional 130 contract jobs in the woodlands.

Vanderwell Contractors has operated in the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River for over 30 years. This dimensional lumber mill employs approximately 250 people.

The Oil and Gas Industry

This industry remains very healthy as it strengthens its focus on natural gas development, to complement the strong oil sector. The initial discovery of oil and gas in the 1960's encouraged rapid growth in both primary and secondary (service) industries. Continued exploration and development in both sectors of the industry bodes well for its future success.

Companies involved in resource development include: Canetic Energy, Canadian Natural Resources, Husky Energy, Vermilion Resources, and Penn West Petroleum.

The Agriculture Industry

Some 124,300 acres of land are under agricultural use by 215 farms, primarily in the Smith and Flatbush regions. Mixed farming operations raise a variety of livestock and produce oats, barley, wheat, and canola crops. While the Flatbush area supports the typical family farm lifestyle, many Smith area farmers, who are closer to resource extraction and processing operations, earn additional off-farm incomes.

The Tourism Industry

Rapidly gaining distinction as Alberta’s northern playground, the area around Lesser Slave Lake has seen the number of visitors increase annually. Tourists are captivated by the panorama of the province’s largest automobile-accessible lake. When in the area, visitors can experience world-class fishing (walleye, pike, perch), kayak/canoe adventures, hiking expeditions, water recreation, and several camping venues - the complete outdoors experience. Also in the region, Canada's northernmost bird observatory, Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory is located in Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park.

Boasting their own popular attractions are three other lakes within the neighbouring Municipal District of Lesser Slave River – Fawcett Lake, Lawrence Lake, and Cross Lake – favourites with fishing, camping and boating enthusiasts. Residents and visitors can easily appreciate the M.D. of Lesser Slave River’s inclusion under the banner of Big Lake Country Tourism.

Click here for more information regarding Tourism & Hospitality (Restaurants, Accommodations, Events, etc.)

Click here for a more in-depth look into Industry Profiles.

Economic Facts

Market Research & Demographic Information

• Consumer Marketing Survey - Completed December 2003
• Business Marketing Survey - Completed December 2003
• Price Comparison Survey - Completed by Alberta Economic Development in May 2004

Statistics Canada information is located at the end of this profile. Click here if you would like to view it now. Further In-depth Information

• Municipal Profiles developed by Alberta's Ministry of Municipal Affairs
• Alberta Weekly Economic Highlights developed by Alberta Economic Development
• Alberta Economic Outlook developed by Alberta Economic Development
• Alberta Export and Trade developed by Alberta Economic Development
• Special Reports developed by Alberta Economic Development
• Tourism Reports developed by Alberta Economic Development
• Alberta Finance Statistics also contains much information which may be useful.
  

Development Permits
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River
Box 722 Slave Lake, AB T0G 2A0
Phone: (780) 849-4888
Fax: (780) 849-4939
md124@md124.ca
www.md124.ca
* The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River does not issue Business Licenses Click here for a list of Business Support Services Or contact: Lesser Slave Lake Community Development Corporation

Property Value Estimates

*Information provided by Remax Slave Lake Realty, October 2008


Major Regional Employers

Private Sector

Public Sector

Financial Institutions

Utilities

Electrical Power:	Direct Energy Services
Natural Gas:	Direct Energy Services
Water/Wastewater:	Municipal District of Lesser Slave River
Waste Management:	Lesser Slave Lake Regional Waste Management

Click here for more information regarding all the above Utilities, including rates, and more in-depth information about the area landfill, recycling, hazardous waste, and waste collection.


Communication

Telephone:	Telus Communications (land-line and mobile)
Internet Services:	Telus Communications
	Sniper Satellite & Communications (Wireless)

Local Newspapers

Name	Phone Number	Fax Number
Lakeside Leader	(780) 849-4380	(780) 849-3903
Scope Newspaper	(780) 849-4350	(780) 849-2433
South Peace News	(780) 523-4484	(780) 523-3039

Radio Stations

Name	Phone Number	Fax Number
CKWA 1210 Slave Lake	(780) 849-2577	(780) 849-4833
CFCW 790 AM Edmonton	(780) 437-7879	(780) 426-6869
CFWE FM Edmonton	(780) 447-2393	(780) 454-2820
630 CHED AM Edmonton	(780) 440-6300	(780) 469-5937

Taxation

Assessment
$1,375,348,070

Mill Rates 

There is No Provincial Sales Tax (PST) in Alberta. There is a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most purchases in Canada.

Transportation

The Municipal District has a fully-developed transportation network. It includes access to air, rail and several highways. Highway #2 is a major transportation corridor linking central Alberta and destinations in the northwestern part of the province. Primary Highways #2A, 44, and 88 connect communities within, and surrounding, the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River.

Air Transportation

The Slave Lake Airport is located within the town of Slave Lake. The landing strip is all-weather asphalt and is approximately 5000 feet long. It is capable of handling most light aircraft including helicopters and small jets. The airport also accommodates night landing and has full fuel facilities. Edmonton International Airport is located approximately 275 kilometres (172 miles) southeast [See: Map (scroll down)]


Highways

Highway 2 is a major transportation corridor linking central Alberta and destinations in the northwestern part of the province. Highway 2A services north to Smith and branches off to a number of unpaved roads that continue toward Hondo, Fawcett Lake, and Slave Lake via the Old Smith Highway. Highway 44 connecting to Highway 2, services south to Chisholm, Flatbush, Fawcett, Westlock, and other destinations. Highway 88 connecting to Highway 2 near Slave Lake, services large volumes of traffic traveling north and northeast of Slave Lake. It is used extensively for oil, gas, forestry, tourism, and recreational purposes. Click here for an interactive road map surrounding the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River Clicking on Traffic Counts will take you to a report on the Alberta Transportation website. There are figures for highways within the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River on pages: 12, 19, 76, 89, 122.

Distances to Major Centres

Passenger Bus Service
Greyhound Canada has a bus depot located in the Sawridge Truck Stop on Highway 88. Greyhound operates daily scheduled passenger and parcel express service to Edmonton and Peace River.


Rail Transport
Slave Lake is serviced by Mackenzie Northern Railway (RLGN)


Taxi, Transportation/Courier Services

• Ten taxi companies service Slave Lake and area
• Five freight/courier companies service Slave Lake and area
• Several trucking companies service the Lesser Slave Lake region

Warehousing and Storage Facilities

• Four warehousing and storage facilities service Slave Lake and area Click here for more information regarding Transportation in, and around, the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River.

Community Lifestyle

Those who call the rural environs of the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River home have an unqualified claim on a peaceful existence in a natural setting, enhanced by accessibility to exceptional services and infrastructure. Add to that a diverse cultural landscape and the results make for a richly textured lifestyle.

Small, closely-knit communities with unique personalities are hallmarks of the Municipal District population mix. The largest settlement of about 650 people, the Hamlet of Wagner/Widewater, is located along the scenic south shore of Lesser Slave Lake. Following the railway west along the lake are the hamlets of Canyon Creek and Assineau, with populations of 271 and 49, respectively. These south shore settlements offer spectacular lake views and prize residential lots, as does the Hamlet of Marten Beach, 30 km north of the town of Slave Lake. Located between Lesser Slave Lake and the Marten River, this community consists of a year-round population of about 45 persons, but swells considerably in the summer due to a number of vacation properties.

One of Canada’s hidden beauties is Devonshire Beach, located 1 km outside Slave Lake. In 1920 the Canadian Pacific Railway considered building one of its grand hotels by this beach. Clams and seagulls create the illusion of a freshwater ocean.

In the eastern region of the Municipal District, the Hamlet of Smith, population 264, exudes a rustic charm evocative of the early fur-trading and paddle wheeler days. It is fully serviced and is the gateway to Fawcett Lake. Farther south of Smith are the hamlets of Chisholm (a quiet community along the Athabasca River) and Flatbush (an important service center for the farming district within which it is situated). Also located within Municipal District borders is the Sawridge First Nation, with 6,000 acres under its jurisdiction in, and around, the Municipal District.

The relaxed pace of life in these Municipal District communities is complemented by a robust volunteer sector, giving rise to many social, recreational and cultural opportunities. They are served equally well by widely distributed education, health and social support systems. In addition, the nearby town of Slave Lake is a bustling hub of entertainment and economic activity.

Recreation

Inspired by nature’s grandeur, people in the M.D. of Lesser Slave River take to the woods and waters of their natural playground for all-season recreation. Four beautiful lakes beckon to fishers, boaters, campers and beach lovers, while the lush countryside is the perfect setting for camping, hiking and birding. Hunters trek through the woods in the fall, and winter adventurers enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.

Nature’s delights notwithstanding, many communities have developed their own recreational facilities and community halls. Golf courses, baseball/softball diamonds, playgrounds, skating rinks, curling rinks and swimming facilities are found throughout the Municipal District. With typical northern gusto, residents frequently organize special events, such as fairs, tournaments, derbies and dances, for the enjoyment of local residents and their visitors.

Click here for information regarding Recreation, Arts & Culture; facilities and programs.

Education

The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River is part of the High Prairie School Division #48 and Aspen View Regional Division # 19. Living Waters Catholic Regional Division #42, is the separate school division represented within the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River.

School	Location	Phone Number	Grades
Smith School	Smith	(780) 829-3979	K – Grade 12
C.J. Schurter School	Slave Lake	(780) 849-4344	K – Grade 2
E.G. Wahlstrom School	Slave Lake	(780) 849-3539	Grades 3 – 6
Koinonia Christian School	Slave Lake	(780) 849-5400	ECS – Grade 9
Roland Michener High School	Slave Lake	(780) 849-3064	Grades 7 – 12
St. Mary of the Lake Catholic	Slave Lake	(780) 849-5244	K – Grade 12
Lakeside Outreach School	Slave Lake	(780) 849-2992	Junior/Senior

Post Secondary

www.northernlakescollege.ca
Locations in Slave Lake, Flatbush, and Smith

• Academic Upgrading Programs
• Career Programs
• University Transfer Programs (Sunrise Project)
• Community Learning Services
• Daycare Services
• Workforce Development www.athabascau.ca Athabasca University is Canada’s leading Open University. It focuses on the delivery of courses and programs by distance and online methods. Registration is year-round and anyone 18 years of age or older is eligible to apply.
• Three Year and Four Year Degrees
• Graduate and Undergraduate Programs
• Diploma Programs
• Certificate Programs
• University Transfer Programs
• Student Services

Health Care

The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River is serviced by the Aspen Regional Health Authority. Click on Programs & Services on the website to find all relevant information about health care in the Slave Lake area. Click here for more information regarding Health Care.

Emergency Services

Fire Protection
There is a regional agreement between the Town of Slave Lake and Municipal District of Lesser Slave River for fire protection services.
Lesser Slave Regional Fire Service 901 – 4 Street NW Slave Lake, AB Fire Chief: Greg Gramiak General Calls: (780) 849-4110 Fire Alarm: (780) 849-3511
Emergency Calls: 911

Ambulance Service
Slave Lake Ambulance 309 – 6 Street NE Slave Lake, AB General Calls: (780) 849-3614 Emergency Calls: 911

Police and By-Law Enforcement
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) 1005 – 6 Avenue SE Slave Lake, AB General Calls: (780) 849-3045
Emergency Calls: 911
Municipal District of Lesser Slave River – Special Constable Phone Number: (780) 849-4888 Fax Number: (780) 849-4939

Community Services

Community Services, Organizations, and Churches

There are several Community Organizations that provide various services throughout the area. A complete list of these organizations, and churches, can be viewed here. Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) operates out of the Town of Slave Lake Office Slave Lake Municipal Library

Climate

Temperature	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Daily Mean(oC)	-14.5	-11.7	-4.7	3.3	9.7	13.6	15.6	14.6	9.2	3.8	-6.1	-12.9
Std. Dev.	4.9	5.3	3.6	2.1	1.2	0.9	1.0	1.6	1.8	1.5	4.0	4.4
Daily Maximum	-9.4	-5.9	1.2	9.4	16.1	19.3	21.2	20.3	14.6	9.1	-1.6	-8.2
Daily Minimum	-19.6	-17.4	-10.6	-2.9	3.3	7.9	10.0	8.8	3.7	-1.5	-10.5	-17.7
Rainfall (mm)	0.6	1.0	1.7	12.1	40.9	88.2	95.6	72.4	48.8	18.0	3.1	2.0
Snowfall (cm)	29.9	21.2	20.8	10.4	2.7	0.0	0.0	0.0	2.2	9.7	19.7	29.8

Average Number of Frost Free Days Annually: 92
Average Number of Hours of Sunshine Annually: 2175

Key Contacts

Lesser Slave Lake Community Development Corporation
PO Box 2100 Slave Lake, AB
T0G 2A0
cdc1@telusplanet.net
Executive Director - Randy Renauer

Municipal District of Lesser Slave River
PO Box 722 Slave Lake, AB
T0G 2A0
Tel: (780) 849-4888
Fax: (780) 849-4939
md124@md124.ca
Reeve - Denny Garratt
Chief Administrative Officer - Allan Winarski

Alberta Economic Development: Edson Office
111 Provincial Building 111 - 54 Street Edson, AB
T7E 1T2
Phone: 780-723-8229
Regional Director - Cathy Goulet
Information Officer - Chris Lockhart

Federal Representative
Brian Jean Member of Parliament [MP] Athabasca Constituency Constituency
Office: 102 - 9912 Franklin Avenue Fort McMurray, AB
T9H 2K5
Tel: 780-743-2201
Fax: 780-743-2287
Toll Free: 1-800-877-532-6272

Provincial Representative 
Pearl Calahasen (MLA) Member of the Legislative Assembly
Lesser Slave Lake Constituency

 622 Legislature Annex
9718 107 Street
Edmonton, Ab. T5K 1E4
Phone: (780) 427-5285 Fax: 780-415-0951