Map of Central Alberta

Description:
This map shows cities, towns, villages, lakes, rivers, highways, main roads, and secondary roads in Central Alberta.

About Central Alberta

Central Alberta is a region located in the central portion of the province of Alberta, Canada. The area serves as a transitional zone between the northern boreal forests and the southern prairies, featuring a diverse landscape that includes parkland, agricultural lands, and rolling hills.

Geography and Climate

The region encompasses the aspen parkland natural region, characterized by a mixture of grasslands and deciduous forests. Central Alberta experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The area receives moderate precipitation, typically ranging from 400 to 500 millimeters annually. The North Saskatchewan River and Red Deer River are major waterways flowing through the region, providing important water resources for municipalities and agriculture.

Major Urban Centers

Red Deer serves as the primary urban center of Central Alberta, functioning as a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and education. The city is positioned almost equidistant between Calgary and Edmonton along the Queen Elizabeth II Highway. Other significant communities include Lacombe, Ponoka, Innisfail, and Olds. These municipalities support diverse economies based on agriculture, oil and gas services, manufacturing, and retail trade.

Economy

Agriculture plays a fundamental role in Central Alberta's economy, with mixed farming operations producing grains, oilseeds, and livestock. The region supports substantial beef cattle and dairy industries. Oil and gas extraction and services constitute another major economic sector, with numerous wells and facilities operating throughout the area. The region also benefits from its strategic location along major transportation corridors connecting Alberta's two largest cities.

Demographics

The population of Central Alberta is distributed across urban centers and rural areas. The region has experienced steady population growth over recent decades, driven by economic opportunities and quality of life factors.