Map of Westman Region (Western Manitoba)

Description: This map shows cities, towns, villages, rivers, lakes, highways, major roads, secondary roads, railways, national parks, airports, travel information points, hospitals, government campsites, and distances (km) in Westman Region (Western Manitoba).

The Westman Region (Western Manitoba) comprises southwestern Manitoba, bordering Saskatchewan to the west and extending eastward to the Central Plains. Brandon, Manitoba's second-largest city, dominates the region as its economic, cultural, and service hub. The region features diverse agricultural lands, significant energy resources, and important transportation corridors. The name "Westman" derives from Western Manitoba.

Geography

The region's topography transitions from the flat prairie of the Assiniboine River valley to more rolling terrain toward the west and south. The Souris River flows through the southern portion of the region, creating the Souris River Valley. Turtle Mountain, located near the international border, rises above the surrounding prairie, supporting mixed farmland and recreation areas. The region contains oil and natural gas deposits, particularly in the southwestern portions.

Climate conditions favor grain production, with the area receiving moderate precipitation and warm summer temperatures. The region occasionally experiences drought conditions, though generally supports reliable crop yields.

Brandon and Urban Centers

Brandon anchors the region with a population exceeding 50,000 in the metropolitan area. The city serves as a major agricultural service center, hosting significant retail, healthcare, and educational facilities including Brandon University and Assiniboine Community College. The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair, held annually in Brandon, represents one of Canada's premier agricultural exhibitions.

Smaller centers including Virden, Souris, Killarney, and Neepawa provide services to surrounding rural areas. Virden benefits from oil industry activity, while other communities focus primarily on agricultural services.

Economic Base

Agriculture forms the region's economic foundation. Grain farming dominates, producing wheat, canola, barley, and oats. Cattle ranching occurs on rougher lands unsuitable for cultivation, particularly in the Turtle Mountain area. Agricultural equipment sales, grain handling, and related services support the farming sector.

Oil and natural gas extraction contributes significantly, particularly around Virden and Melita. The petroleum industry provides employment and tax revenue to local municipalities. Manufacturing in Brandon includes agricultural equipment, food processing, and distribution operations. The Trans-Canada Highway and major rail lines crossing the region support transportation and logistics activities.