Smoky
Introduction
The Smoky area is a diverse area zone geographically, culturally and economically. The area falls within the Boreal Forest, Parkland, Foothills and Rocky Mountain natural regions.
The area has two major centres: Grande Prairie , with a population of around 45 000 residents, and Valleyview. The area also has a number of small towns and hamlets including Beaverlodge, Sexsmith, Wembley, Hythe, Clairmont and Spirit River.
The area is also home to two First Nations communities: Sturgeon Lake Indian Reserve and Horse Lake Indian Reserve.
Where to find us
The area head office is in Grande Prairie. Fishing and hunting permits and Christmas tree licenses can be purchased at SRD offices in most major towns in the area. See map for locations of area offices.
The local economy
A thriving retail and wholesale sector has made Grande Prairie the service centre for northwestern Alberta and northeast British Columbia. Oil and gas, forestry and agriculture are also important contributors to the area's economy.
Area wildlife
The Smoky area shares wildlife with the grasslands, with the foothills in the west and the boreal forest to the north. The lakes and ponds in the area provide a major nesting area for the rare trumpeter swan. Deer, coyotes, beavers, turkey vultures and prairie falcons also call the Smoky area home.
Tourism and recreation
Albertans can enjoy the many provincial parks and recreational areas in the Smoky area. Fishing, hiking, canoeing, berry-picking and cycling are all popular activities. The area is also home to many popular camping spots including one of Alberta's first provincial parks, Saskatoon Island Provincial Park .
Other
This website provides information about how we manage this special region's natural resources for sustainable use. Welcome to the Smoky area!
