Brazeau County

Welcome

A Brazeau Country Welcome

Welcome to the heart of west-central Alberta. A land of natural beauty, where industry and commerce join forces with outdoor adventure and western culture. Brazeau Country is a rich and unspoiled slice of Alberta, with great history, rural living and all the modern conveniences of today's lifestyles.

Located in the heart of the West Pembina Oilfield and within the portions of the Rocky/Clearwater and Whitecourt forests Brazeau County's economic sectors of Forestry, Agriculture and Oil and Gas are strong and continually growing.

Brazeau County is blessed with having large tracts of crown and wilderness lands within and adjacent to it's boundaries and is commonly known as Brazeau Country. Offering the outdoor enthusiast a wide range of activities, three major water courses travers through Brazeau Country, the North Saskatchewan, Pembina and Brazeau Rivers, which provide an abundance of recreational activities.

Brazeau County provides a beautiful wilderness backdrop for both residents and visitors. The motto of the County is "Welcome Home" and one look at its beautiful surroundings and vibrant economy will make anyone want to call it home.

Sincerely
Wes Tweedle
Reeve

Area Overview

The motto of the County is "Welcome Home", and one look at its beautiful surroundings, and vibrant economy will make anyone want to call it home. The quality of life is truly enriched in Brazeau County through the large number of volunteer groups and associations. Many non-profit organizations participate in the growth and enhancement of our community and community activities. The area is also home to a large number of cultural, historical, and environmental associations and services, in addition to many service clubs, recreation and social clubs, fraternities and support services.

Brazeau County includes within it's boundaries the vibrant municipalities of the Town of Drayton Valley and the Village of Breton, along with the hamlets of Buck Creek, Cynthia, Lindale, Lodgepole, Rocky Rapids, and Violet Grove. In addition, the County is responsible for governance of the Birchwood Village Green, a private recreational village near Lindale. We invite you to join our cyber tour of the communities that make up Brazeau County.

TOWN OF DRAYON VALLEY - Population 6210
Located atop a high plateau between the North Saskatchewan and Pembina Rivers, where the agricultural land of the east meet the forested foothills of the west. Drayton Valley is the vibrant urban centre of beautiful Brazeau Country. Known for its young progressive atmosphere, Drayton Valley is the envy of many a municipality for its first-class recreation facilities, beautiful residential areas, and prosperous economy.

A young community, Drayton Valley only recently celebrated its 40th birthday. Built on the oil boom of the 1950s, Drayton Valley has diversified its economy and prides itself on no longer being a "one industry" town. The future of Drayton Valley is bright and alive ... the perfect place to raise a family or operate a business. Average housing price in Drayton Valley is $180,000.00.

Average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $550.
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

VILLAGE OF BRETON
The Village of Breton offers families the safety of a small village and the quality of education found in small class sizes. Recreation abounds in Breton, with two golf courses on the outskirts of the village, and close proximity to both Pigeon and Buck Lakes. Breton has an extensive library collection and the Breton Museum is unique in that it represents the area as one of the first Black Settlements in Alberta. The population breakdown of Breton shows that it is a chosen community for young families and those looking for a peaceful setting.

HAMLETS OF BRAZEAU COUNTY
Population Statistics for hamlets taken from Municipal Census 2002

BUCK CREEK
Population: 80 - This quiet community is located just 20 kms from Drayton Valley. Boasting its annual Buck Creek Days at the local Buck Creek Community Hall, this event draws crowds from miles around. The community is serviced by Brazeau County with municipal waste water treatment and paved streets. A community store, community hall and post office are all located within the Hamlet.

Average price within the hamlet of Buck Creek - $5,000
Average housing price within the hamlet of Buck Creek - $75,000
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

CYNTHIA
Population: 37 - Located 34.5 kms west of Drayton Valley, the Hamlet of Cynthia was once a large thriving hamlet due to the 1950s oil patch boom. It is now a quiet developed hamlet with municipal water and sewer, paved roads. Due to its location in the picturesque west country, Cynthia offers its residents numerous recreational outdoor activities. Hunting, quading and snowmobiling are all located at its back door. Located in Cynthia are a hotel, café and gas station. An active community club, the Cynthia Recreation Association, maintains an outdoor skating rink, playground and Community Hall. Annual events include a summer Quad Rally and Winter Snowmobile Rally.

Average Lot price in the hamlet of Cynthia - $5,000.
Average Home price in the hamlet of Cynthia - $60,000.
There are a number of properties available for sale through the Brazeau County Planning and Development Department.
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

LINDALE
Located amongst rolling hills and prime farmland, the Hamlet of Lindale is the only hamlet in Brazeau County to boast its own school, adjacent golf course and campground. The Lindale Community Hall Association hosts monthly steak suppers, and a fall windup supper. The Lindale Hall boasts an adjacent ball diamond and rodeo grounds, and the Lin Berry Buck 4-H Club is also very active in the area.

Average lot price in the Hamlet of Lindale is $5,000. with the average house price $60,000.
Average lot price in Birchwood is $12,500. with the average home price being $75,000.
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

BIRCHWOOD SUBDIVISION
Surrounding the Birchwood Village Greens Golf Course, the development of the Birchwood Subdivision has seen a number of new housing starts and continues to grow. Under the ownership of Canadian Property Investments Inc., this resort subdivision is quickly becoming a very desirable place to live. Residents have access to the indoor swimming pool located in the Birchwood Village Greens Complex.

LODGEPOLE
Population: 122 - The outdoor enthusiasts dream, Lodgepole is located just a short 15 minute drive from the beautiful Brazeau Dam recreation area, and 5 minutes from the Pembina River. Located in a protected Green Zone and surrounded by a lush boreal forest, Lodgepole boasts paved streets, municipal water and sewer, a hotel, café, gas station, store and post office. A new local firehall was built in 1999.

Average lot price in the hamlet of Lodgepole is $5,000
Average house price in the hamlet of Lodgepole is $50,000
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

ROCKY RAPIDS
Population: 371 - Located only 5 km north of Drayton Valley, Rocky Rapids is rapidly growing with numerous new homes being developed in subdivisions within the hamlet. Small and neat, the hamlet has the benefits of full municipal services, a community hall, post office, store, outdoor skating rink and ball diamond.

Rocky Rapids is located just 1.6 km from the local airport and 4.8 kms from the local downhill and cross country ski hills. The Two Rivers Beef Club meets the 1st Sunday of each month at the Rocky Rapids Community Hall. Rocky Rapids is home to the annual Rapid Fire Mudbogs held at the Rapidfire Motorsports Park.

Average lot price within the hamlet of Rocky Rapids $55,000
Average home price within the hamlet of Rocky Rapids $180,000
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

VIOLET GROVE
Population: 99 - Located just 8 kms southwest of Drayton Valley, this small, neat community has both hamlet sized lots and country residential acreages. Most of the area is served with a Municipal waste water system. The Violet Grove Community Club hosts an annual Pig Roast and childrens Christmas concert.

Average cost of a 2 acre country residential parcel is $40,000
Average cost of a home in the hamlet of Violet Grove is $100,000
Source: Century 21 - Hi Point Realty - Due to market fluctuations please check with the local real estate agencies for current prices.

Climate

MONTHLY AVERAGE TEMPERATURE

Month High Low Month High Low
January -8 C -18 C July 24 C 11 C
February -6 C -17 C August 22 C 8 C
March 1 C -10 C September 17 C 4 C
April 11 C -2 C October 11 C -1 C
May 18 C 4 C November 1 C -9 C
June 21 C 8 C December -7 C -16 C

There are 17 average hours of daylight in the summer months. The first sign of snow is usually at the end of October. The elevation at the Drayton Valley Airport is 2,750 feet above sea level. Altitude of Drayton Valley is 2,798 ft (852 meters).

Community Services

Brazeau County has a very strong support system for its residents, including the services provided through the Family & Community Support Services, schools and educational opportunities, community organizations and service clubs, churches and support for seniors.

or a more comprehensive look at the lifestyle in the area go to the Brazeau County website where you can view or download our Community Profile.www.brazeau.ab.ca

CHURCH GROUPS

There are several different church denominations in the County.

TOWN OF DRAYTON VALLEY

All Saints Anglican Church - 5212 47 Avenue

• Calvary Baptist Church - 4401 50 Avenue
• Church of God - 5004 49 Street
• Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints - 4307 52 Street
• Drayton Valley Alliance Church - 4908 54 Street
• Drayton Valley Missionary Church
• Drayton Valley Pentecostal Assembly - 4951 41 Avenue
• Emmaus Lutheran Church - 4604 50 Avenue
• Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses - Jubilée Avenue
• St. Anthony Catholic Church
• St. Peter and Paul's Ukrainian Church
• St. Thomas Catholic Church
• United Church of Canada - 5029 48 Street
• Word of Life Centre - 5508 43 Avenue

VILLAGE OF BRETON

• Christ Life Fellowship - 4507 52 Street
• Faith Evangelical Covenant Church - 4712 53 Avenue
• Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses - 5004 53 Avenue
• Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church

COMMUNITY CLUBS AND HALLS

Brazeau County is proud of its rural community and the many organizations that host events and activities for people of all ages. This includes not just ball tournaments and Christmas pageants, but jamborees, skating parties, Yuk Yuk's Comedy night, rodeos, fishing derbies, music festivals, curling bonspiels, and so much more. There's never a dull moment!

• Berrymoore Centre
  Originally the Berrymoore School, this hall has been renovated with a new kitchen and bathroom, and seats 60 people. A Ball Diamond is located adjacent to the hall.
• Buck Creek Community Association
  Events include Socials, Ball Tournaments and Buck Creek Days. Hall seats approximately 150. A new addition to the Buck Creek Community Hall is currently under construction.
• Carnwood Country Hall Society
  Events include regular Jamborees. Annual events include a New Year's Party, Old Fashioned Christmas, Fall Supper and St. Paddy's Day Supper. Hall seats 125.
• Cynthia Recreation Association
  Located within the Hamlet of Cynthia, the Cynthia Recreation Association includes a community hall, outdoor skating rink and playground. Hall capacity is 100 and is available for bookings.
• Easyford Community Centre Society
  Events held include family evenings, childrens playgroup once a week and an annual Yuk Yuk's Comedy night. Hall was newly constructed in 1988 and seats 250 people. Hall is available for booking.
• Funnel Community Hall Association
  Events include an annual Christmas concert. The hall seats approximately 60 and is often booked for anniversaries, birthdays and family reunions. There is a ball diamond and playground.
• Lindale Community Hall Association
  Annual Amateur Rodeo, Steak suppers, dances, Fall Windup supper. Hall seats 220 and is adjacent to a ball diamond, rodeo grounds, Birchwood Village Greens campground and Golf Course.
• Lodgepole Community Association
  Events include an annual fish derby from May to Sept, BINGO 4 times a year, pancake breakfasts and the Annual Pirates of the Pembina Raft Race. A new hall opened in 2004.
• Lodgepole Curling Club
  The Lodgepole Curling Club is attached to the Community Hall.
• New Moose Hill Community Club
  Annual event is the New Moose Hill Slow Pitch Tournament held every year on the long weekend in September. BINGO is held twice a month from October to April. The hall seats 50 people and there are 2 ball diamonds with a playground.
• Rocky Rapids Community League
  Located within the hamlet of Rocky Rapids, the Rocky Rapids Hall seats 170 comfortably and is often booked for weddings, funerals, family reunions and Christmas parties.
• Violet Grove Community Club
  Located within the Hamlet of Violet Grove, the hall seats 80 people. Annual events include a children's Christmas concert and Fall Pig Roast. Whitby Community League Events include regular Socials, and an Annual Children's Christmas Concert. A campground and ball diamond are currently under construction. The hall has a seating capacity of 300 and is popular for weddings, family reunions and company Christmas Parties.

Community Groups and Organizations

• Brazeau Seniors Foundation - 542-2712
• Senior Citizens Club of Drayton Valley - 542-4737
• Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge # 391 - 542-2123
• Drayton Valley Women's Institute - 542-7368
• Kinette Club of Drayton Valley - 542-7969
• Kinsmen Club of Drayton Valley - 542-3719
• Knights of Columbus - 542-6699
• Lions Club of Drayton Valley - 542-5891
• Masonic Lodge # 182 of Drayton Valley - 542-5308
• Oil Wives Club of Drayton Valley - 542-6479
• Order of the Royal Purple of Drayton Valley - 542-2780
• Rotary Club of Drayton Valley - 542-4406
• Royal Canadian Legion # 269 - 542-5825
• Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxilary # 269 - 542-4597
• Metis Nation of Drayton Valley # 888 - 542-3368

Provincial

Several provincial departments have offices in the M.D.:

• Alberta Energy & Utilities Board - 542-5182
• Keystone Child & Family Services - 621-4020
• Provincial Court - 542-3536
• Fish & Wildlife - 542-6616
• Land & Forest Services - 542-6616
• Public Lands - 542-6430

Federal

• Canada Post
• Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Community Lifestyle

You will never hear "there's nothing to do" here. Whether it is the urban or rural areas, lack of things to do is not a problem. With the youthful exuberance of both our young and senior populations, recreational organizations abound.

The Brazeau Regional Tourism Committee (BRT) is funded through a partnership between Brazeau County, the Town of Drayton Valley, and the Village of Breton. Be sure to visit the Brazeau Tourism website at www.brazeautourism.ca for a list of golf courses, campgrounds and RV parks, accommodations, museums, restaurants, and the latest events held in our communities.

RECREATION CLUBS AND FACILITIES
Brazeau County offers a number of recreation areas for visitors and residents alike, listed below. Don't forget to check out our Events section and plan your weekend around one of the many special events happening in the area!

There are four Golf Courses in the County: the Drayton Valley Golf & Country Club, Birchwood Village Greens Golf & Country Club at Lindale, the Big T Golf Course and Breton Golf Course at Breton. Please go to the Brazeau Tourism website for information and a description of each.

SPORT FACILITIES, EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
The communities in Brazeau County pride themselves on their tremendous sport facilities. Great for residents and visitors both, make sure you take advantage of these when in the area.

BRETON SPORTS FACILITIES
Tennis courts are located north of the Breton Golf Course Pro Shop. Ball Diamonds are located at Maple Ridge Park in Breton and behind the Breton Community Halls. A Slow-Pitch Tournament and Horseshoe Tournament are held at the Annual July 1st Canada Day Celebrations. Horseshoe pits are also located behind the Breton Community Hall, and floor curling is a popular attraction here too. The Breton Curling Rink has 3 sheets and a licensed lounge.

DRAYTON VALLEY OMNIPLEX
The Omniplex encompasses three multi-purpose facilities, all under one roof. Located in the heart of Lions West Valley Park, the Omniplex is surrounded by six ball diamonds, a soccer field, rodeo grounds, a beautiful day use park and a 55 site full service RV Park. The Omniplex is the pride of our community, with two multi-purpose ice arena/show pads, a state-of-the-art six-sheet curling facility, lounge, fitness club, walking track and raquetball courts. The Omniplex is the year-round venue, not only to hockey tournaments and bonspiels, but agriculture fairs, horse shows, rodeos, concerts and trade shows. It is a versatile complex that will accommodate meetings from 20 right up to functions for hundreds.

Drayton Valley Trail System
The Town of Drayton Valley features a new walkway system connecting the community together. Winding paths and beautiful ponds encourage neighbourly chit-chats.

There are many creative parks with special features, such as mini soccer pitches, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, traditional playgrounds and picnic areas. There are over five kms of pathways, with more to be completed soon.

Drayton Valley also boasts a bowling alley, skateboard park, and an Old Timers Baseball Club.

Park Valley Pool
Built in 1985, Drayton Valley's Park Valley Pool is a beautiful indoor family facility, and includes a 25m five lane pool (with a zero depth of 2.5m), wading pool, two slides, a tarzan rope and hot tub. It is ideal for all ages, and public and family swimming times are often. Residents will enjoy the Junior Lifeguard Program, Babysitters Course, Adult Water Safety Lessons, Lane Swimming, Aquasize, Hydro Therapy treatment, and many more aquatic courses.

Other Sports Facilities in the Area
The Cynthia Recreation Association maintains an outdoor skating rink in the winter. The Lindale Hall boasts an adjacent ball diamond and rodeo grounds, and residents have access to the indoor swimming pool located in the Birchwood Village Greens Complex. The Alberta Amateur Sports Training Facility, utilized by many athletes training for competitions at the national, international and Olympiad levels, is located in Lodgepole. The Lodgepole campground trail has recently been connected to the Riverside Horse Trails. Lodgepole also boasts a new Community Hall attached to the Curling Rink. There is also an outdoor skating rink in Rocky Rapids and a ball diamond. Rocky Rapids is home to the annual Rapid Fire Mudbogs held at the Rapidfire Motorsports Park.

Brazeau County has numerous clubs and organizations that keep the residents of Brazeau County, Drayton Valley and the Village of Breton active.
For a more comprehensive look at the lifestyle in the area go to the Brazeau County website where you can view or download our Community Profile. www.brazeau.ab.ca

• Ben Nevis Pipe Band
• Drayton Valley & District Historical Society
• Drayton Valley Branch of the Alberta Genealogical Society
• Drayton Valley Festival Association
• Drayton Valley Fine Arts Society
• Drayton Valley Pipes and Drums Association
• Drayton Valley Presents Concerts
• Friends of EZ Fest Music Society
• Hamdon Exhibition Gallery
• Hearts & Hands Quilters Guild
• Playworks Players Theatrical Guild
• Writers Round Table
• Derrick Toastmasters
• ITC (International Training in Communitcation)
• Weight Watchers
• TOPS Teens in Action Youth Club
• CGIT (Canadian Girls in Training)
• Girl Guides, Brownies and Sparks
• Royal Canadian Air Cadets
• Scouts Canada - 1st Drayton Valley

Recreational Clubs and Organizations

• Adult Recreational Volleyball
• Alberta Boxing Training Centre
• Brazeau ATV Club
• Brazeau Bowbenders Archery Club
• Canadian Ski Patrol System
• D.V. National Swim Club (Winter swim club)
• Derrick Boxing Club
• Drayton Valley Adult Co-Ed Volleyball
• Drayton Valley Badminton Club
• Drayton Valley Brazeau Ski Club
• Drayton Valley Curling Club
• Drayton Valley Figure Skating Club
• Drayton Valley Golf and Country Club
• Drayton Valley Horse Club
• Drayton Valley Indoor Soccer Association
• Drayton Valley Judo Club
• Drayton Valley Ladies Hockey
• Drayton Valley Martial Arts
• Drayton Valley Men's Basketball
• Drayton Valley Men's Recreational Hocky
• Drayton Valley Minor Hockey
• Drayton Valley Minor Soccer Association
• Neptunes Summer Swim Club
• Drayton Valley Pony Club Drayton Valley Ringette
• Drayton Valley Slo Pitch League
• Drayton Valley Wildcats Hockey
• Fun Hocky
• Ladies Basketball
• Ladies Soccer
• Lamplighters Hockey Club
• McLeary School of Irish Dance
• Pembina Nordic Ski Club
• Tiger Studios - Tae Kwon Do
• Valley Model Aeronautics Club

Youth Groups/Activities

• Big West FMHS Rodeo Club
• Brazeau Light Horse 4H Club
• CGIT (Canadian Girls in Training)
• DV 4-H Button Poppers
• Drayton Valley District 4H Council
• Easy Riders Light Horse 4-H Club
• Lin-Berry Buck Beef 4 - H Club
• Round Valley WI Girls Club
• Girl Guides, Brownies and Sparks
• Scouts Canada 1st Drayton Valley
• Teens in Action Youth Club
• Two Rivers Beef 4-H Club
• West Valley 4-H Light Horse Club
• Women's Institute Girls Club

Religious Services

• All Saints Anglican Church
• Alliance Church
• Calvary Baptist Church
• Church of God
• Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
• Emmaus Lutheran Church
• Jehovah's Witnesses
• Pentacostal Assembly
• St. Anthony Catholic Church
• United Church of Canada
• Word of Life Church

Special Annual Events/Attractions

• Lions Evergreen Rodeo/Parade
• Canada Day Celebration
• Tractor Pulls and Competition
• Rapid Fire Mud Bogs
• IGA Sprint Car Races
• Drayton Valley Indoor Rodeo
• Frank Maddock High School Rodeo
• Kinsmen Music Festival
• Drayton Valley Agricultural Society Cattle and Stock Show
• Drayton Valley and District Chamber of Commerce Trade Fair

Hospitality

• Cake & Coffee House
• Gallery Coffee House
• Rusty's
• White Bull Steak House
• A & W Restaurant
• B & W Dairy King Drive In
• Boston Pizza
• Burger Baron Drive In
• Dairy Queen
• Goldies Chicken Plus Pizza and Pasta
• Kentucky Fried Chicken
• McDonalds
• Panagopoulus
• Subway
• Tim Horton's (Opening in 2005)
• Bad Ass Jack's
• Best Western Black Gold Inn
• Ceasars Inn
• Drayton's Restaurant and Lounge
• Kings Court
• Maes Garden
• Skyro's Restaurant and Pizzaria
• Smitty's Restaurant and Lounge
• Three Knights Steak House & Pizza
• Twin Dragon Dining Lounge
• Westwind Motor Inn

Accommodation

• Aspen Motor Inn
• Best Canadian Motor Inn
• Big Tee Motel
• Best Western Black Gold Inn
• Ceasar's Inn
• Coach Motel
• Drayton Valley Hotel
• Foxwood Inn
• Home in the Forest Bed & Breakfast
• Lodgepole Pine Inn
• Matador Motel
• Super 7 Drayton Valley
• Westwind Motor Inn

The quality of life is truly enriched in Brazeau County by the number of cultural, historical, and environmental associations and services, in addition to the many service clubs, recreation and social clubs, fraternities and helping services. Please check our Business Directory for craft stores and quilt shops in the area.

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CULTURAL GROUPS AND CLUBS
Brazeau County's arts community is thriving, bringing goodwill bouquets to many community events. The member groups invite you to consider participating in their activities.

Alberta Genealogical Society
The Alberta Genealogical Society is a non-profit organization, founded in 1973, to encourage and promote the study of family history in Alberta. There are 11 active branches in the province, including one at Drayton Valley.
President - Donna Grasby
Box 115, Rocky Rapids, Alberta T0E 1Z0

Hearts and Hands Quilters Guild
The Hearts and Hands Quilters Guild meet the third Thursday in the basement of the Emmaus Lutheran Church (4604 50 Avenue). Their Valley of Quilts Show featured over 200 quilts from members' collections. Classes were held both days by Jean Boyd, 2003 Canadian Quilters Assoc "Teacher of the Year". For ore information, call Judy at 780-542-2679. Stitches & Dreams Quilting Guild

The Stitches & Dreams Quilting Guild meet the third Sunday of each month at the Carnwood Hall from 10 am to 5 pm. New members are always welcome. For more information, call Linda at 780-696-2422.

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GALLERIES
The arts and culture base in Brazeau County is flourishing. Art galleries include the Hamdon Gallery and Valley Gallery, both in Drayton Valley.

The Drayton Valley Civic Centre is home to the Hamdon Art Gallery, a continually changing display of works by various artists and in various mediums. You are invited to tour the gallery and explore a wide variety of Canadian fine artworks.

The Valley Gallery features the talents of local artists, and is popular with locals and visitors alike. It is located in downtown Drayton Valley at 5137 51 Avenue, and also provides custom framing services.

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ENVIRONMENT
Pembina Institute The Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development (PIAD), provides holistic and practical solutions for a sustainable world. The Institute is an independent, not-for-profit environmental policy research and education organization in Drayton Valley. The Institute has a multidisciplinary staff of more than forty, with corporate offices in Drayton Valley, Calgary, and Ottawa, and home offices in Vancouver and Toronto. The Institute's major policy research and education programs are in the areas of sustainable energy, climate change, environmental governance, ecological fiscal reform, sustainability indicators, and the environmental impacts of the energy industry.

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LIBRARIES
Libraries in the area provide materials and services to the public to assist them in meeting their informational, educational, cultural and recreational needs. Libraries across Alberta provide free, public access computer terminals, and library staff have kept up with the latest information services technology to help Albertans get the information they need. Librarians help people surf the Net, search electronic databases for thousands of articles from journals, periodicals and newspapers, and can help users get comfortable with the software available.

Drayton Valley Municipal Library
Starting out as a volunteer project of the Women's Institute in 1957, the community library was located in a vacant classroom of the original public school. In 1959, the library relocated to the town's administration building and joined the Yellowhead Regional Liibrary system in 1977, one of seven regional library systems in the province.

The library occupies a total area of 4,190 square feet, including a mezzanine. The Drayton Valley Municipal Library was the first in Alberta to offer the services of an in-house book store, the first rural library in the province to have, and provide, Internet access, and the first library in Canada to be an Internet Service Provider (ISP), generating revenue for the library. In a joint partnership with the Town of Drayton Valley, the Roman Catholic Separate School District, and CCinet of Edmonton, the Library administers the internet service called DVNet, launched in December of 1994.

The DVML is open six days a week from September to June. The library is closed on Saturdays in July and August. Audiovisual materials include audiotapes, CDs, books on tape, video tapes, and CD-ROMs. For more information, call 780-514-2228.

Breton Municipal Library
The Breton Municipal Library offers an extensive collection, along with interlibrary loans, magazines, reference services, multilingual books, government publications, maps, college and university calendars, a Teen Volunteer Program, childrens programs, videos and games.

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MEDIA
Brazeau County is covered by two weekly newspapers, the Western Review and the Community Voice. The Edmonton Journal and Edmonton Sun are dailies that follow events in Brazeau County. The County receives most Edmonton radio stations, and also has one local radio station, CIBC FM 93. The County receives most Edmonton local television stations, as well as one local community television station. Cable television is available in certain communities.

Weekly Newspaper
Brazeau County is served by local newspaper, the Drayton Valley Western Review. With a circulation of over 4,200, the Western Review is published on Tuesdays. The weekly newspaper covers the areas north of the Yellowhead Highway (Hwy 16), past Evansburg and Entwistle, and south of Highway 39 east of Warburg.

Box 6960, 4905 - 52 Ave
Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1S3
Ph: 780-542-5380 ... Fax: 780-542-9200

The Community Voice is another weekly newspaper covering the communities in Brazeau County. The Edmonton Journal and Edmonton Sun are dailies that follow events in Brazeau County.

Radio and Television
The County receives most Edmonton radio stations, and also has one local radio station, CIBC FM 93 (Big West Country). The County receives most Edmonton local television stations, as well as one local community television station. Cable television is available in certain communities.

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MUSEUMS
The history of Drayton Valley is preserved and cared for by the Drayton Valley and District Historical Society Museum. The Breton Museum, sponsored by the Breton and District Historical Society, houses interesting artifacts and information pertaining to the agriculture and pioneers of the area. It is also unique in that it represents the Breton area as one of the first Black Settlements in Alberta.

Breton and District Historical Museum
The picture facing all settlers at the turn of the century was a daunting one ... uncleared land, harsh weather and isolation. Non-Europeans often suffered the additional hardship of discrimination. This helps to explain why the flow of black American settlers from Oklahoma, begun in 1908 with Canadian government encouragement, was virtually over by 1912.

Nevertheless, about 1,000 courageous black souls settled in the province, mainly in four centres: Amber Valley (near Athabasca), Junkins (now Wildwood), Campsie (near Barrhead) and Keystone (now Breton).

In 1989 the Breton & District Historical Museum opened to the public, with exhibits that focus on four major themes: Black History, the Lumbering Industry, Community Development, and Agricultural Development. The Museum is located at 4711 - 51 Street in the former Breton Elementary School, a two-room school built in 1948.

The Breton & District Historical Museum is the only museum in the province that has a major focus on the Black settlement history of Alberta. Keystone (Breton) was one of four such rural communities in Alberta founded by Black settlers from Oklahoma and neighbouring states during the first part of the 20th century. One of the premier events the Museum hosts each year, on the fourth Sunday in February, is Black History Day.

The Museum also celebrates its lumbering history, which began with logging timber berths around the turn of the century. Breton and district became a major lumbering centre in the late 1920's after the arrival of the railway in 1926.

The Museum is open daily during the months of July and August from 11 am - 5 pm. At other times the Museum may be visited by calling 780-696-2551 to arrange an appointment. Guided tours are available.

Keystone Cemetery
Shortly after the establishment of the Keystone Community the need for a cemetery arose. The community was undecided where the cemetery should be located. They wanted it near a road but since no roads existed, and no one knew where the road would be eventually built, it was decided that the first family to lose a family member would donate land for the cemetary. In 1910 the first death occurred in the Harry Allen's family, and they donated land located in the southeast corner of their quarter SW 14 48 5 W5.

Since only partial records were kept it is hard to know how many people were buried in the Keystone Cemetery. The last two burials to take place were Charlie King in 1970 and his wife Emma King in 1983. After Emma King's death, the cemetery was declared inactive. Over the years, many of the Black families moved from the community, the cemetery was neglected, and became run down.

In 1985 the Breton & District Historical Society decided to restore the cemetery. The Historical Society restored the cemetery and erected a cairn to honour the Black families who had settled Keystone. During this project it was discovered that the cemetery was not listed at the Land Titles Office and also that the property line of the adjoining quarter ran through the cemetery. With the help of Brazeau County, the Historical Society obtained a legal subdivision from the present owners of the land and now have title to the property. Today the Keystone Cemetery stands as a silent testament to the Black families who were the first major group to populate the area.

Drayton Valley District Historical Society
The Drayton Valley Museum houses photographs related to the area, oral histories of the people, and a collection of tools and implements used by local people. Operated year-round with no admission charge, the Museum offers guided tours, school programs, and demonstrations.

Historical displays include archaeological objects, furniture, imaging and photographs, maps and charts, medical history and technology, toys and games, and agricultural exhibits. Located at 6013 44 Avenue in Drayton Valley.

Economic Base

The business and industry community in Brazeau County is young and continually growing. The principle industry in the region is oil and gas production, followed by strong and growing forestry and agriculture sectors. The tourist and recreation sectors also have a great deal of potential. One of the particular strengths of the region is the people. The County has highly trained technical support people for the oil patch and forestry sectors. A good range of land and lots are available, including industrial, commercial and residential lots in the three municipal jurisdictions, and agricultural holdings in the areas surrounding the Village of Breton and the Town of Drayton Valley.

INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY

Alberta has the highest concentration (63% of households) of personal computers per capita in Canada. Alberta has the highest percentage (59%) of people connected to the Internet compared to any other province in Canada. The future of economic growth in Brazeau County centres around accessible technology, and the potential for e-commerce or e-business opportunities. Infrastructure in the town will address these developments. That infrastructure is the availability of rapid data transfer (high speed internet).

The most accessible rapid data transfer internet in Brazeau County is available through Telus Internet Services and their ADSL program. Wireless Internet service is available through DVNet. Both provide high speed service for businesses requiring dedicated connection to the world wide web for the purposes of e-commerce. For home-based business owners, access to broadband services provided by Shaw Communications is available through their cable Internet program. With the advent of Alberta Supernet coming to Brazeau County, broadband accessibility will provide another dimension for business. Broadband is also available to households and businesses within Brazeau County through Wild Rose Internet Services, please contact them at 1-888-633-3974 to sign up for your service.

These five broadband mediums allow business owners to stay in their home community and market their ideas to untapped markets around the world.

For a more comprehensive look at the economy in the area go to the Brazeau County website where you can view or download our Economic Profile .www.brazeau.ab.ca

Economic Facts

The business and industry community in Brazeau County is young and continually growing. A complete review of the various industries in our district includes oil and gas, forestry, agriculture, and tourism, all featured in this section. The principle industry in the region is oil and gas production, followed by strong and growing forestry and agriculture sectors. The tourist and recreation sectors also have a great deal of potential. One of the particular strengths of the region is the people. The County has highly trained technical support people for the oil patch and forestry sectors. A good range of land and lots are available, including industrial, commercial and residential lots in the three municipal jurisdictions, and agricultural holdings in the areas surrounding the Village of Breton and the Town of Drayton Valley.

Major businesses products and/or services include: Weyerhauser Canada Ltd. (lumber), Centennial Lumber, Tall Pine Timber (lumber), Amoco Canada Petroleum Co. (forestry), Petro Canada Resources (oil and gas), Imperial Oil Resources (oil and gas), Gulf Canada Resources Ltd. (oil and gas), and several agricultural businesses. There are several financial institutions and six major banks have offices in Brazeau County.

 For a more comprehensive look at the economy in the area go to the Brazeau County website where you can view or download our Economic Profile .www.brazeau.ab.ca _________________________________________________
AGRICULTURE
Farmers have been involved in agriculture endeavors within our municipality since the early 1900's. More than 140 local families have been farming on or around the same lands, for more than 50 years. Brazeau County has over 300,000 acres of improved farmland and 700,000 acres of unimproved pasture, according to the 1996 census. Agriculture is growing in the County.

At present there are 600+ farms in the region, most of which are mixed operations. The majority are cow-calf oeprations that have grain and forage production for their own requirements. There is also a good cross-section of purebred operators, many with international ties. Crop production ranges from pasture to oil seeds, with the major crops being hay and oats.

The area boasts some of the best forage production and pasturelands in the Province of Alberta. Ample rainfall ensures the viability of grazing, annual crops and forage production. The resident cowherd stands at over 60,000 cow/calf pairs, while a large influx of cattle for the pasture season increases that number dramatically (in most years the total herd exceeds 100,000 head). Many purebred cattle operations are located within the municipality, providing the resident commercial cow/calf operators a constant supply of proven genetics in a wide variety of breeds.

Aquaculture operations have started in the area, and have been taking advantage of the excellent supply and quality of the local water. In the past five years, there has been expansion in beekeeping with several operations placing hives in selected areas for honey production. The area also boasts numerous horticultural greenhouse operations, featuring production and propagation of seed stock for the area. There are several seed farms in the area producing foundation seed and certified seedstocks for local farm consumption and sales to outside growers.

Support services to the agriculture industry include: veterinary clinics, a thriving auction market, two large feed stores, a farm equipment sales and rental business, hay and livestock transport companies, as well as several other businesses that carry farm supplies, grass seed and feed. The County also has the University of Alberta "Breton Plots" within its boundary. These are the longest duration, active soil research plots in western North America. The long-term trials were established in the early 1920s and have been complimented with short-term trials for the more than 75 years of the research site. The information provided is local knowledge and assists in determining practices for our local agricultural operations.

If you have any questions regarding any aspect of the agricultural industry in Brazeau County, please call the Ag Call Centre at 1-877-882-7677. The Agricultural Service Board of Brazeau County services most aspects of agriculture and agricultural programming. The area is also home to the Drayton Valley & District Agricultural Society and the Breton & District Agricultural Society, both of which actively promote agricultural practices to the local farming community.

Agricultural development is still occurring in the area, as new ground is brought into production and new farming options are being explored. There are several game farm operations with exotic animals, including elk, bison, wild boars, ostrich, llama, miniature donkeys and exotic goats. Other operations include small-scale aquaculture operations in dugouts, small fruit and berry production in isolated areas, pork (farrow to finish) operations, several small dairy farms and a multitude of small on-farm businesses ranging from mechanical to fabrication.

Agricultural land is in demand in the area. Local realtors are always on the lookout for native pastureland or established farm operations. The Agriculture Industry is in a continuous state of expansion in the area. Some of the best forage production in the province, easy access to markets, good foundation stock and abundant water, makes livestock expansion inevitable in our municipality. New crops, better seed varieties and the expansion of provincial feed requirements are fueling the expansion of the annual crop production farms. With over half of the province's cattle population located north of central Alberta, it is safe to say that agriculture in Brazeau County will continue to expand.

Number of Farms by Total Farm Area
1996 2001
Farms by Total Farm Area No of Farms % of Total No of Farms % of Total
Under 129 Acres 137 20% 88 16%
130 - 239 Acres 211 30% 159 28%
240 - 559 Acres 206 29% 170 30%
560 - 759 Acres 48 7% 48 9%
760 - 1119 Acres 54 8% 49 9%
1120 - 1599 Acres 25 4% 24 4%
1600 - 2239 Acres 13 2% 16 3%
2240 and over 7 1% 11 2%
Total Farms Reporting 701 565
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census of Agriculture (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Farms by Total Gross Farm Receipts
1996 2001
Receipts No of Farms % of Total No of Farms % of Total
Under $2,400 93 13% 54 10%
$2,500 - 4,999 67 10% 45 8%
$5,000 - 9,999 119 17% 59 10%
$10,000 - 24,999 184 26% 147 26%
$25,000 - 49,999 118 17% 109 19%
$50,000 - 99,999 67 10% 78 14%
$100,000 - 249,999 39 6% 52 9%
$250,000 - 499,999 11 2% 17 3%
$500,000 and over 3 .4% 4 .7%
Total Farms Reporting 701 565
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census of Agriculture (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Farms by Type
1996 2001
Type No of Farms % of Total No of Farms % of Total
Beef Cattle 372 61% 329 64%
Grain & Oilseed (Exc Wheat) 20 3% 10 2%
Dairy 13 2% 6 1%
Livestock Combination 12 2% 5 1%
Hog 4 .6% 3 .5%
Poultry & Egg 4 .6% 1 .2%
Fruit 2 .3% 1 .2%
Wheat 2 .3% 0 0%
Vegetable 0 0% 0 0%
Miscellaneous Specialty 92 15% 85 17%
Other Combinations 6 9% 7 1%
Total Farms Reporting 608 511
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census of Agriculture (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

RELATED WEBSITES

• Alberta Agriculture Food and Rural Development
• Alberta Beef Producers
• Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture
• Alberta Reduced Tillage Linkages
• Breton Plots
• Canadian Cattlemen's Association

_________________________________________________
FORESTRY
Located within portions of two major forests (Rocky/Clearwater and Whitecourt) the Brazeau area supports a thriving and growing forest industry. The Brazeau area is home to three large sawmills, which produce oriented strand board and dimensional lumber. The Weyerhaeuser Canada Mill is the largest single employer in the Brazeau area, with the plant directly employing about 320 workers, with a similar number employed by logging and hauling contractors. The mill is now producing a premium line of dimensional lumber (4 square), with all the knots and poor quality wood removed. 500,000 m3 of softwood and 600,000 m3 of hardwood are consumed annually by this mill. Weyerhaeuser's Drayton Valley facility was one of the first in the province to be certified under the FORESTCARE program, and was the first Weyerhaeuser mill to be certified. The big Weyerhaeuser operation has brought a lot of stability to Brazeau Country and added a major component to the local economy. With sound forestry practices, there is little doubt that the mills should operate as long as there's a market for the product. There are also a multitude of smaller portable mills which custom cut wood for local landholders. Logging operations from both public and private land are used to supply the raw wood to the mills. A sound trucking industry has resulted, along with a good harvesting industry.

New land is constantly being brought into productive use from clearing by logging or improvement of existing cleared land. The service industry to complement this expansion is fairly well developed with heavy equipment operations which service the oilfield as well.

RELATED WEBSITES

• Alberta Forest Products Association
• Weyerhaeuser Canada Ltd.

_________________________________________________
OIL AND GAS
Oilfield operations are quite diverse, and constitute a large portion of the local economy. The Pembina field is one of the largest in continental North America. The County is able to offer all aspects of the service industry as well as exploration and primary production elements. All major oil companies are represented with offices in the region. Production in the Pembina Oilfields Area began in early 1953 with the discovery well located a few miles southwest of Violet Grove. Eventually 8,000 wells were drilled with 5,500 still in service today. Forty-five years later, in excess of 300 wells continue to be drilled annually. Wells in the area produce varying volumes of crude oil, condensate (very light oil) and natural gas. The pipeline system that gathers the production from all these fields and transports it to Edmonton, also picks up oil volumes from the Niton Field area to the northwest and from the Willesden Green Field located approximately 65 kilometers south of Drayton Valley. This pipeline system, owned and operated by Pembina Pipeline, also gathers condensate at several gas plants in the Drayton Valley vicinity. As of December 31, 2003 there were 7,613 well sites in Brazeau County.

Due to the size of the oil and gas industry in the area, the majority of the companies in the area are dealing with the oil. Often these companies are making ground-breaking strides in the Environmental industry in the areas of waste management and environmental clean up and redemption. Pembina Oil Separators (POS) is an upstream side oil industry waste management facility. POS accepts material from its customers that contain crude oil, water and solids mixtures. These mixtures are a result of regular soil processes, or from upsets and spills. The crude oil is recovered and sold down pipeline. Waters are used in the process and ultimately deepwell disposed in a Class 1A well (there are currently only approximately 30 class 1A wells in Alberta). Solids are landfarmed on a Licensed Treatment Facility.

Oil Industry Labs is a full scale analytical laboratory that offers its professional services to the oil industry and other industries as well. The focus of Oil Industry Labs is to stay geographically "close to home" and produce quality results quickly.

The Pembina Area Landfill is currently siting a Class 1A Hazardous Waste Landfill 11 km northwest of Cynthia. The Pembina Area Landfill has undergone an extensive Environmental Impact Assessment and is nearing the application phase of the regulatory process.

The Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development (PIAD) is an organization that is recognized nationally and internationally for its participation at the Kyoto Conference on Greenhouse Gas Emissions. The institute is a citizen based, non-profit organization responsible to a volunteer board of directors and a small, but active, community-based membership. A range of charitable, environmental, educational, and research programs are conducted in conjunction with the Institute's sister organization, the GAIA Foundation for Earth Education.

RELATED WEBSITES

• Alberta Economic Development
• Pembina Institute for Appropriate Development

_________________________________________________
TOURISM
2003 was a banner year for tourism in the Brazeau County area with the development of the Brazeau Regional Tourism Committee (BRT), funded through a partnership between Brazeau County, the Town of Drayton Valley, and the Village of Breton.

Thinking of starting a tourism operation in Brazeau County? The rivers, lakes, forested areas and natural landscapes in the County offer a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. The County supports tourism where efforts are being directed by the hospitality industry, agri-tourism, and recreational operators, as well as promoting events and recreational attractions.

For a more comprehensive look at tourism in the Brazeau area go to the Brazeau Regional Tourism website at www.brazeautourism.ca

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

The economic Development Department offers facilitating and information services to the existing businesses within Brazeau County. These services include business attraction and marketing of the County through the website and other marketing materials. The department collaborates with the tourism and hospitality operators to enhance their business opportunities.

For more information Contact:
Economic Development Consultant Kelly Starling 780-542-7777 780-542-7770

RELATED WEBSITES

• Alberta Bed & Breakfast Association
• Discover Alberta
• Golf Central Alberta
• Travel Alberta

Major Businesses Products/Services

• Weyerhauser Canada Limited Lumber
• Centennial Lumber Lumber
• Tall Pine Timber Lumber
• ARC Resources Oil & Gas
• Bonterra Energy Group Oil & Gas
• BP Amoco Canada Petroleum Company Oil & Gas
• Chevron Canada Resources Oil & Gas
• Comstate Resources Ltd. Oil & Gas
• Petro Canada Resources Oil and Gas
• Imperial Oil Resources Oil and Gas
• Gulf Canada Resources Limited Oil and Gas
• Mobil Oil Canada Oil and Gas
• Penn West Petroleum Oil and Gas
• Kos Corp International Oil and Gas Service

For a more comprehensive look at the economy in the area go to the Brazeau County website where you can view or download our Economic Profile .www.brazeau.ab.ca

Education

EDUCATION
The County is part of the Wild Rose School Division No. 66, and the St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic School Division. Public school education facilities are available in Drayton Valley and Breton. Separate school and Christian school education is available in Drayton Valley.

Breton Schools

BRETON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Grades K - 6
Box 220 Breton, Alberta T0C OPO
Phone: 780-696-3555

BRETON HIGH SCHOOL
Grades 7 - 12
Box 676 Breton, Alberta T0C 0P0
Phone: 780-696-3633

Drayton Valley Schools

AURORA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Grades K - 6
3901 - 55 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1N9
Phone: 780-542-9355

DRAYTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Grades K - 9
4762 - 50 Street, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1P1
Phone: 780-542-7066

ELDORADO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Grades K - 6
4762 - 50 Street, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1P1
Phone: 780-542-5544

EVERGREEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Grades K - 6
4417 - 47 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1P4
Phone: 780-542-5535

FRANK MADDOCK HIGH SCHOOL
Grades 10 - 12
4801 - 43 Street, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1P4
Phone: 780-542-4401

FRANK MADDOCK OUTREACH SCHOOL
5008 - 51 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta
Phone: 780-542-1551

H.W. PICKUP JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Grades 7 - 9
4725 - 46 Street, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1P3
Phone: 780-542-4495

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL
Grades K - 12
Drayton Valley, Alberta
Phone: 780-542-4396

Emergency Services

Fire Protection

There is a fire department within the Town of Drayton Valley, which serves Brazeau County [1 full-time Fire Chief, 1 assistant Fire Chief, 24 volunteers, 7 operating vehicles]. There is another fire department within the County which serves Breton [1 volunteer Fire Chief, 12 volunteers, 3 operating vehicles]a volunteer fire department exists in the Hamlet of Lodgepole.

Police Services

The County is served by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police [9 Constables, 2 Corporals, 1 Staff Sergeant]. There is also a Municipal Public Safety Officer that serves the area.

Ambulance Services

There are 3 ambulances in the M.D., 2 in Drayton Valley and 1 in Breton. There are also 2 paramedics and 7 EMT's.

A number of organizations exist to enhance and aid all the protective services;

• Drayton Valley Rural Crime Watch Association
• Pembina Crisis Connection Society
• Victim Services
• Yellowhead Dive & Rescue Team

Health Care

Medical Services
The County has one hospital with a nursing home facility in the Town of Drayton Valley. Other medical services include three clinics (doctors), one health unit, and two seniors' apartment buildings. Various other health care services are offered in the County, including Drayton Valley Foster Parent Association, Pembina Crisis Connection Society, and the Drayton Valley Meals on Wheels.

Medical services in the area revolve around the Drayton Valley & District Health Complex. Opened in 1984, this modern hospital is equipped with a 40 bed acute care facility equipped with two surgical suites, an obstetrical suite, X-Ray and laboratory facilities, full diagnostic capabilities, four holding and observation rooms and a 50 bed nursing home featuring a charming atrium. There are also four private assisted living units adjacent to the facility. Drayton Valley has 11 doctors, 7 consulting specialists, five dentists, two chiropractors, several physiotherapists, one optometrist, certified massage therapists, three medical clinics, a Health Unit, denture clinic, and a two bed dialysis unit. To contact the Drayton Valley and District Health Complex, phone 780-542-5321.

There are three ambulances in the County; two in Drayton Valley and one in Breton. There are also two paramedics and seven EMTs.

Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Centre
4550 Madsen Ave., Drayton Valley AB T7A 1N8
Phone: 780-542-5321

Various other health care services and helping services are offered in the M.D. :

• Alcoholics Anonymous
• Gambling Help Line
• Narcotics Anonymous
• Community Behavioral Services
• Drayton Valley Family School Liaison Program
• Victem Services Cardium Region
• Alberta Mental Health Board
• Keyston Child and Family Services
• Drayton Valley & District Support Services
• Beehive Support Services Association
• Brighter Futures
• Drayton Valley Foster Parent Association
• Pembina Crisis Connection Society
• Drayton Valley Meals on Wheels.

Key Contacts for Business Development

Municipal

Brazeau County
Box 77
Drayton Valley, Alberta
T7A 2A1
Tel: 780-542-7777
Fax: 780-542-7770

Wes Tweedle
Reeve
Box 77
Drayton Valley, AB
T7A 2A1
Tel: 780-542-7777
Fax: 780-542-7770
Email: krobinson@brazeau.ab.ca

Ken Porter

Chief Administrative Officer
Box 77
Drayton Valley, AB
T7A 2A1
Tel: 780-542-7777
Fax: 780-542-7770
Email: kporter@brazeau.ab.ca

Kelly Starling
Economic Development
Box 77 Drayton Valley, AB
T7A 2A1
Tel: 780- 542-7777
Fax: 780- 542-7770
kstarcon@telusplanet.net

Provincial (Updated May 2001)

Tony Abbott
Member of the Legislative Assembly [MLA]
Drayton Valley-Calmar Constituency
#323 Annex, Legislature Annex
9718 - 107 Street
Edmonton, Alberta
T5K 1E4
Tel: 780-415-9466
Fax: 780-415-9475

David Pattison
Director, Edmonton Region
Regional Development Branch
Alberta Economic Development
5th Floor, Commerce Place
10155 - 102 Street
Edmonton, AB T5J 4L6
Tel: 780-427-6648
Fax: 780-422-5804
E-Mail: david.pattison@gov.ab.ca
(updated May 10, 2004)
Jan Couper, Client Services Representative
Tel: 780-427-6291
E-Mail: jan.couper@gov.ab.ca

Federal (Updated May 2001)

Rob Merrifield
Member of Parliament [MP]
Yellowhead Constituency
House of Commons
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0A6
Tel: 613-992-1653

Dale Johnston
Member of Parliament [MP]
Wetaskiwin Constituency
House of Commons
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0A6
Telephone: 613-995-8886

Constituency Office:
6 - 4612 50 Street
Ponoka, Alberta
T4J 1S3
Tel: 403-783-5530 or 1-800-667-0410
Fax: 403-783-5532 

Location

Brazeau County is privileged in having large tracts of crown and wilderness lands within and adjacent to it's boundaries, offering the outdoor enthusiast a wide range of activities. Three major water courses traverse through the Brazeau, the North Saskatchewan, Pembina and Brazeau Rivers, which provide their own individual recreation opportunities.

Located in west central Alberta, it is approximately 138 km west of Edmonton, 171 km northwest of Red Deer and just a short 3 hour drive to the Rocky Mountains and the town of Jasper.

Post Secondary Education

The Pembina Educational Consortium offers a wide range of credit courses originating from several post-secondary institutions including the University of Alberta, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Red Deer College, and Grant MacEwan Community College. The role of the Consortium is to facilitate programs and services provided by post-secondary institutions to adults who live in regions not directly served by a single institution.

Powerhouse Further Education Council
The Powerhouse Further Education Council offers many courses throughout the year, including fine arts, crafts, cooking, home skills, personal development, recreation, agriculture/gardening, first aid, leadership training, technical and academics courses. Courses are offered in Drayton Valley and Breton.

Taxation

	Residential/Farmland	Non-Residential
2004
Municipal Tax Rate	5.0000	8.7000
Education - Alberta School Foundation Fund Tax Rate	4.7290	7.2870
Education Opted Out Tax Rate	4.7290	7.2870
Allowance for Non-Collection of Requisitioned Taxes	.1560	.1560

Mill Rates [2000]

Residential/Farmland - .00548900
Non-Residential - .00840000

Transportation

Air Services

The Drayton Valley Municipal Airport serves both the recreational and business needs of the area. It is larger than most conventional rural airports as it was built also to meet the special needs of the oil and gas industries in the area. The airport is located 7 km from downtown and is accessed by a paved road. It is operational all year round. The airport has a 4000 feet runway and two aprons. It has a beacon guidance system and the runway lights are radio activated. There is an onsite airport manager available during normal business hours. The airport also has a fuelling station and a small terminal with a comfortable reception area. Parking is available right outside the terminal building. Tie down parking for small light aircraft is available on the apron.

Rail Services

The County is served by Canadian National Railways, with a depot located 40 minutes away in Evansburg.

Highways

Highway 22 travels north/south through the Brazeau County, with Drayton Valley sitting centre between Calgary and Grande Prairie, Hwy 22 is intersected 40 minutes north of Drayton Valley by the Yellowhead Highway (hwy 16). Highway 39 travels east through Brazeau County linking it to the newly named Queen Elizabeth II (highway 2) and the Edmonton/Calgary corridor.

Trucking Firms

Numerous trucking firms, including oil, gravel, freight and log haulers, serve the County.

Bus Services

Greyhound Bus Lines provides daily scheduled service.

Couriers and Taxis

The County is served by approximately 3 courier companies. There are two local taxi companies in the County.

Utilities

Electrical Power

Fortis
4851 - 80 Street
Drayton Valley, Alberta
Tel: 1-800-667-2345

Natural Gas

Evergreen Gas Co-op
Tel: 542-4808

Telephone

Telus Communications
Tel: 310-2255

Water Supply

Of the 6 hamlets in the M.D. of Brazeau, 2 have water supplied from wells, 1 has water supplied from Drayton Valley, and 3 hamlets depend on individual wells.

Waste Management

Of the 6 hamlets, 5 have waste water collection systems which treat sewage in lagoons, while one hamlet is tied into the Drayton Valley waste water treatment facility. The annual sewer maintenance tax is applied to yearly land taxes.

Population

Total Population
Population 2004*	6,895
Population 2003*	6,895
Population 2002*	6,895
Population 2001**	6,895
Population 2000*	6,589
Population 1996**	6,589
Population 1991**	6,301
Population % change 1991-1996	4.37%
Population % change 1996-2001	4.44%
* Source: Official Population List, Alberta Municipal Affairs ** Source: Statistics Canada 1991, 1996, & 2001 Census

Total Population 1991-2001

Population by Age and Gender	1996  Male	1996  Female	1996  Total	2001  Male	2001  Female	2001  Total
Age 0 - 4	260	235	495	215	210	425
Age 5 - 14	655	610	1,265	605	590	1,195
Age 15 - 19	285	235	520	310	290	600
Age 20 - 24	190	165	355	200	160	360
Age 25 - 34	490	510	1,000	390	420	810
Age 35 - 44	635	590	1,225	700	680	1,380
Age 45 - 54	380	345	725	505	430	935
Age 55 - 64	335	275	610	360	330	690
Age 65 - 74	165	115	280	220	150	370
Age 75 and older	55	60	115	60	60	120
Total All Persons	3,455	3,135	6,590	3,570	3,320	6,890
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Brazeau County Population by Age Group (2001)

Education Statistics

Highest level of schooling for Population 20yrs and older	2001	%
People without high school certificates	1,875	39.89%
People with high school certificates	630	13.40%
People with trades or non-university certificate or diploma	1,530	32.55%
People with post-secondary education (not completed)	385	8.19%
People with university diploma/certificate	45	0.96%
People with university degree	235	5.00%
Total Population 20 years and older	4,700	100.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Brazeau County Highest Level of Schooling 2001

Population with Post Secondary Qualifications	1996	%	2001	%
Agriculture and biological sciences	85	6.25%	105	5.75%
Commerce, management and business administration	205	15.07%	330	18.08%
Educational, recreational and counseling services	110	8.09%	180	9.86%
Engineering and applied science tech. and trades	675	49.63%	805	44.11%
Engineering and applied sciences	30	2.21%	20	1.10%
Fine and applied arts	70	5.15%	50	2.74%
Health professionals, science and technologies	120	8.82%	190	10.41%
Humanities and related fields	10	0.74%	40	2.19%
Mathematics and physical sciences	0	0.00%	15	0.82%
Social sciences and related fields	50	3.68%	95	5.21%
Other and/or no specialization	0	0.00%	0	0.00%
Total people with post secondary qualifications	1,360	100.00%	1,825	100.00%
Females with post-secondary qualifications	580	42.65%	915	50.14%
Males with post-secondary qualifications	780	57.35%	910	49.86%
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Labour Force

Labour force by activity	1996	2001
In the labour force, both sexes	3,680	4,060
Not in the labour force, both sexes	1,140	1,220
Total population 15 and over	4,815	5,285
Employed, both sexes	3,460	3,900
Unemployed, both sexes	215	155
Participation rate, both sexes	76.00%	77.00%
Unemployment rate, both sexes	5.00%	4.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

 

Labour Force by Industry Division	1996	% of total	2001	% of total
Agriculture	630	17.31%	570	14.04%
Mining	630	17.31%	725	17.86%
Manufacturing	215	5.91%	235	5.79%
Construction	395	10.85%	415	10.22%
Transportation. & Utilities	365	10.03%	355	8.74%
Retail and Wholesale	430	11.81%	425	10.47%
Finance	130	3.57%	110	2.71%
Business & Community Services	595	16.35%	1,165	28.69%
Public Administration	30	0.82%	55	1.35%
Total All Industries	3,640	100.00%	4,060	100.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Brazeau County Labour Force By Industry - 2001

 

Labour Force by Major Occupational Groups	1996	%	2001	%
Management occupations	210	5.78%	340	8.37%
Business, Finances and administrative occupations	505	13.89%	510	12.56%
Natural and applied sciences and related occupations	135	3.71%	150	3.69%
Health occupations	65	1.79%	105	2.59%
Occupations in social science; education; government and religion	70	1.93%	135	3.33%
Occupations in art; culture; recreation and sport	35	0.96%	30	0.74%
Sales and service occupations	680	18.71%	660	16.26%
Trades; transport; equipment operators and related occupations	800	22.01%	935	23.03%
Occupations unique to primary industry	785	21.60%	885	21.80%
Occupations unique to processing; manufacturing and utilities	355	9.77%	305	7.51%
Occupations not elsewhere classified	40	1.10%	0	0.00%
Total - All Occupations (major groups)	3,635	100.00%	4,060	100.00%
Females - All Occupations	1,500	41.27%	1,775	43.72%
Males - All Occupations	2,135	58.73%	2,285	56.28%
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Income

Family Income (Number of Families)	1996	%	2001	%
less than $19,999	200	11.49%	135	7.78%
$20,000 - $39,999	350	20.11%	495	28.53%
$40,000 - $59,999	600	34.48%	395	22.77%
$60,000 and over	590	33.91%	665	38.33%
Total number of families	1,740	100.00%	1,690	97.41%
Average family income	$54,575		$68,936
Median family income	$50,925		$60,255
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Household Income (Number of Households)	1996	%	2001	%
less than $19,999	390	17.49%	285	11.80%
$20,000 - $39,999	525	23.54%	590	24.43%
$40,000 - $59,999	665	29.82%	450	18.63%
$60,000 and over	215	9.64%	1,090	45.13%
Total number of households	2,230	100.00%	2,415	100.00%
Average household income	$49,961		$64,599
Median household income	$47,323		$53,706
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Building Permits

Total Building Permit Values	2001	2002	2003	2004	2005
Building Permits Value, Commercial	$773,000	$577,000	$4,104,000	$3,790,000	$6,265,000
Building Permits Value, Industrial	$1,440,000	$1,068,000	$1,995,000	$660,000	$125,000
Building Permits Value, Institutional	$5,000	$0	$856,000	$0	$0
Building Permits Value, Residential	$8,945,000	$12,315,000	$5,917,000	$8,266,000	$9,480,000
Building Permits Value, Total	$11,163,000	$13,960,000	$12,872,000	$12,716,000	$15,870,000
Total Housing Starts	78	85	44	50	48
Source: Statistics Canada 2000-2004 Building Permits (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Total Housing Starts

Value of Building Permits

Dwellings

Occupied Private Dwellings by Type	1996	% of total	2001	% of total
Apartments	0	0.00%	10	0.41%
Detached Duplexes	0	0.00%	0	0.00%
Movable Dwellings	630	28.25%	625	25.83%
Other single attached house	0	0.00%	5	0.21%
Row and semi-detached house	10	0.45%	10	0.41%
Single-detached house	1,595	71.52%	1,775	73.35%
Total number of occupied private dwellings	2,230	100.00%	2,420	100.00%
Private dwellings, owned	1,980	88.79%	2,145	88.64%
Private Dwellings, rented	250	11.21%	275	11.36%
Source: Statistics Canada 1996 & 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Private Dwellings by Period of Construction	# of Dwellings	% of total
Period of construction, before 1946	85	3.51%
Period of construction, 1946 - 1960	280	11.55%
Period of construction, 1961 - 1970	240	9.90%
Period of construction, 1971 - 1980	680	28.04%
Period of construction, 1981 - 1990	545	22.47%
Period of construction, 1991 - 2001	595	24.54%
Total number of private dwellings constructed	2,425	100.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census (numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Farming

Brazeau County Total Farm Area : 565 acres

Farms by Total Farm Area (2001)	# of Farms	% of total
Farms - Under 129 acres	88	15.58%
Farms - 130 to 239 acres	159	28.14%
Farms - 240 to 559 acres	170	30.09%
Farms - 560 to 759 acres	48	8.50%
Farms - 760 to 1,119 acres	49	8.67%
Farms - 1,120 to 1,599 acres	24	4.25%
Farms - 1,600 to 2,239 acres	16	2.83%
Farms - 2,240 acres and over	11	1.95%
Total number of farms reporting	565	100.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census of Agriculture(numbers may not add up due to rounding)

# of Farms by Total Farm Area

Farms by Total Gross Farm Receipts - 2001	# of Farms	% of total
Farms gross farm receipts - under $9,999	158	27.96%
Farms gross farm receipts - $10,000 to $49,999	256	45.31%
Farms gross farm receipts - $50,000 to $99,999	78	13.81%
Farms gross farm receipts - $100,000 to $249,999	52	9.20%
Farms gross farm receipts - $250,000 to $499,999	17	3.01%
Farms gross farm receipts - $500,000 and over	4	0.71%
Total number of farms reporting	565	100.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census of Agriculture(numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Total Gross Farm Receipts

Farming, Continued

Characteristics of Farm Operators	#	%
Age - Under 35 years	80	9.25%
Age - 35 to 54 years	455	52.60%
Age - 55 years and over	330	38.15%
Average age of operators	51
Number of operators - Female	310	35.84%
Number of operators - Male	560	64.74%
Total number of operators reporting	865	100.00%
Source: Statistics Canada 2001 Census of Agriculture(numbers may not add up due to rounding)

Age of Farm Operators

Projects

Summary of Projects in Brazeau County as of September 2006

Project Sector	Number of Projects	Project Cost
Infrastructure	2	$15,800,000
Total	2	$15,800,000
This inventory lists projects in Alberta that have recently been completed, are under construction, or are proposed to start construction. Not all projects are listed due to reasons of confidentiality and/or due to information not being available at the time of printing. Project data is obtained from public information sources, where possible, this data has been verified with the project proponent/developer, users of the Inventory may wish to confirm project data with the proponent/developer. The inventory does not breakdown project expenditures by any given year. The cost of a project is the value of expenditures expected over all phases of project construction, which may span over two or more years. Cost of projects listed in the Inventory are estimated values only. Source: Alberta Economic Development, 2004.

Value of Projects by Sector (as of September 2006)

Project Status	Number of Projects	Project Cost
Completed	1	$5,200,000
Under Construction	1	$10,600,000
Total	2	$15,800,000
This inventory lists projects in Alberta that have recently been completed, are under construction, or are proposed to start construction. Not all projects are listed due to reasons of confidentiality and/or due to information not being available at the time of printing. Project data is obtained from public information sources, where possible, this data has been verified with the project proponent/developer, users of the Inventory may wish to confirm project data with the proponent/developer. The inventory does not breakdown project expenditures by any given year. The cost of a project is the value of expenditures expected over all phases of project construction, which may span over two or more years. Cost of projects listed in the Inventory are estimated values only. Source: Alberta Economic Development, 2004.

Largest Projects in Brazeau County as of September 2006

Company Name	Project  Description	Project  Location	Project  Cost	Construction  Schedule	Status
Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation	HIGHWAY 39 GRADE, BASE AND PAVE	Brazeau County (E of Hwy 22 to Hwy 20)	$10,600,000	2006-2007	Under Construction
Brazeau County	2006 Road Projects	Brazeau County	$5,200,000	2006-2006	Completed