Lesser Slave
Introduction
The Lesser Slave area is a diverse area geographically, culturally and economically. The area falls within the Boreal Forest Natural Region and the Foothills Natural Region. It is home to Lesser Slave Lake, the second largest lake in Alberta .
The area has two major centres, the town of Slave Lake and High Prairie and a number of First Nations communities.
Where to find us
The area head office is in Slave Lake. Fishing and hunting permits and Christmas tree licences can be purchased at SRD offices in most major towns in the area. See map for locations of area offices.
The local economy
The economy in the Slave Lake area is driven primarily by development and support services for the petroleum and forestry industries. The town of Slave Lake is diversifying its economy by encouraging manufacturing and the value-added sectors.
Area wildlife
Some of the wildlife in the area include:
- moose,
- bears,
- white-tailed and mule deer,
- woodland caribou,
- wolves,
- waterfowl and
- cougars.
Tourism and recreation
The Athabasca River and Lesser Slave Lake, among many others, provide Albertans' the opportunity to fish for walleye, northern pike, arctic grayling, whitefish and perch.
Albertans can also enjoy recreational camping in Smith, Faust, Joussard, Kinuso and High Prairie. Two popular attractions in the area are the Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation and the North Country Fair. There are three provincial parks in the area: Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park, Hilliard's Bay Provincial Park and Winagami Lake Provincial Park.
Other
Lesser Slave Lake also hosts three popular events:
- Elks Pro Rodeo in early August,
- The Smith-Hondo Fall Fair on Labour Day weekend, and
Riverboat Daze in late June or early July.
