Moving & Living in Northern Sunrise County

 

 Living in a Rural Community

"In 1928 and 1929, during Alberta’s huge homestead trek into the Peace Country, a well-beaten, crude wagon trail roughed out by the early settlers served as an entrance into the search for this last Northern frontier."
 
FROM THE BOOK “RED HARDCOVER COUNTY HISTORY BOOKS” ELIZABETH IFTODY
 

Rural living in Northern Sunrise County is rich and rewarding, but it’s important for new residents to understand that life here differs significantly from city living. Agriculture plays a central role in shaping the economic, cultural, and social fabric of the County. By choosing to live in a rural setting among ranch and farm families, you’ll experience both the benefits and challenges of this lifestyle, including open spaces, tranquility, wildlife sightings, and variable weather and road conditions.

Adapting to Rural Life

Living in an agricultural setting where land is primarily used for growing crops and raising livestock brings unique aspects that new residents may need to adapt to:

  • Self-Sufficiency: Managing your own residential water and sewage, maintaining large properties, and handling snow removal are common responsibilities. Due to the longer distances and isolated gravel roads, it’s essential to be prepared and self-reliant, as emergency and rescue crews may take longer to respond.

  • Farming Activities: Farmers often work around the clock, especially during seeding and harvest seasons. Depending on environmental conditions, activities like operating loud machinery, swathing hay, hauling grain, and combining can occur at any time, day or night.

  • Dust and Odours: Dust is common when farmers are tilling and harrowing fields, particularly in dry and windy weather. The odours from chemicals used to control weeds, pests, or diseases can also be noticeable, especially to those sensitive to such smells. Pesticides are generally not used during high winds.

  • Burning Fields and Ditches: Although rare, burning fields and ditches to control weeds or rejuvenate fields may produce smoke that some residents find bothersome.

  • Road Safety: Agricultural equipment, such as tractors, combines, swathers, grain trucks, and livestock carriers, may be on the roads at any time, particularly in the spring and fall. Exercise caution when approaching these vehicles.

  • Livestock Considerations: Animals and manure can emit strong odours, especially during the spring thaw. If you’re considering moving near a livestock operation, it’s important to be aware of these smells.

  • Safety Around Farm Animals and Equipment: Farm animals and equipment can be dangerous, especially for those unfamiliar with agricultural environments. It takes time to understand and observe all the necessary safety precautions.

Rural life in Northern Sunrise County offers a unique and fulfilling experience, but it requires an understanding and appreciation of the agricultural way of life.

 Choosing a Building Site in a Rural Area

Selecting a building site in a rural area involves more than just choosing the most scenic view. It’s essential to consider several important factors to ensure your property is suitable for construction and safe for long-term living:

  1. Soil Type and Water Table:
    The type of soil and the depth of the water table can significantly influence the location and type of buildings that can be safely constructed. It is recommended to request a soil test before purchasing a property. Geotechnical engineering companies that perform soil testing can be found under “Engineers” in the Yellow Pages.

  2. Drainage and Wind Direction:
    Evaluate the property for low-lying areas, drainage patterns, and the direction of prevailing winds. Wind can carry drifting snow, dust from gravel roads, chemicals from agricultural operations, and livestock odours, which may impact your living conditions.

  3. Waterways and Slopes:
    Be mindful of creeks and streams, which may appear harmless but can become torrents during runoff, posing hazards for children and pets. Steep slopes can also become unstable, especially in wet weather, increasing the risk of landslides.

  4. Tree Location:
    Mature trees can provide valuable windbreaks, but they also pose potential risks, such as fire hazards or damage to buildings if they fall during a storm. Carefully consider their placement relative to your building site.

  5. Maintenance Responsibilities:
    Property owners are responsible for the maintenance of all roads and driveways on their land throughout all seasons. This includes snow removal, grading, and general upkeep to ensure accessibility.

  6. Water and Sewage Systems:
    On properties not serviced by municipal water and sewer systems, consider the optimal locations for a water well or holding tank, as well as a sewage disposal system. Some systems, like septic fields, require substantial space and must be installed within specific property boundaries.

Taking these factors into account will help you select a building site that not only meets your aesthetic preferences but also ensures safety, functionality, and long-term sustainability in a rural setting.

 Communities in Northern Sunrise County

Northern Sunrise County is located in northwestern Alberta, adjacent to the Town of Peace River, a hub for northern Alberta. The County is approximately 473 km north of Edmonton and 284 km northwest of Grande Prairie. Residents of Northern Sunrise County enjoy ample opportunities to connect with their neighbors, explore the great outdoors, and experience a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.

The County is well-equipped with essential services, including water, internet, electricity, and gas, meeting the diverse needs of those living in the region. Northern Sunrise County also offers abundant recreational opportunities, with options ranging from walking trails and sports courts to a jumbo bounce pillow and geocaching. Whether you prefer outdoor activities with friends and family or solo adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active.

For those who enjoy community events, Northern Sunrise County hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, catering to all interests. When we say, “Northern Sunrise County, We’ve Got It All,” we mean it—from the friendly community and exciting activities to the stunning landscapes, there truly is something for everyone here in Northern Sunrise County.

 

Cadotte Lake | Harmon ValleyLittle Buffalo | Marie ReineReno | St Isidore| Three Creeks

  Amenities and Community Halls

Agricultural Societies & Cultural Committees

Agricultural Societies and Cultural Committees play a vital role in supporting the growth and maintenance of Northern Sunrise County and its surrounding communities. Participation in Agricultural Societies and Cultural Committees can enhance your understanding of the services and programs available within the County. They also offer opportunities to develop and adapt programs or services that meet the evolving needs of the community and its residents.

Community Halls & Cultural Centres

Community Halls and Cultural Centres are available for rent for a variety of functions, including weddings, dances, educational opportunities, and meetings. These venues provide flexible spaces to accommodate the diverse needs of the community.

 

Comite Culturel St. Isidore: (780) 624-8481
Harmon Valley Agricultural Society: (780) 322-2625
Marie Reine Cultural Centre: (780) 618-1476
Mamowintowin Cultural Centre: (780) 629-2476
McKinney Hall: (780)618-4871
Nampa Agricultural Society: (780) 618-8846
Peace River Agricultural Society: (780) 618-8258
 
Libraries
The Peace Region has three libraries located as follows:
Bibliothèque de St. Isidore 
Phone: (780) 624-8182 
Location: View Map 

 

Nampa Municipal Library
Phone: (780) 322-3805
Location: View Map

 

Peace River Municipal Library
Phone: (780) 624-4076
Location: View Map