In September 2025, the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis (CANCEA) was proud to support Woodlands County, Alberta in completing its latest municipal census and community analysis. This comprehensive project was designed to give County Council, residents, and stakeholders a clear understanding of the people, services, and opportunities that shape the community’s future.
What We Did
CANCEA worked with Woodlands County to design, conduct, and analyze the municipal census and community survey. This included:
- Collecting detailed household and demographic data across all regions of the County.
- Measuring community engagement with services such as recreation, arts and culture, healthcare, shopping, and fire protection.
- Applying advanced statistical methods to correct for survey drop-off, ensuring results accurately represent the community as a whole.
- Mapping service use and destination preferences to highlight geographic differences across areas like Anselmo, Goose Lake/Freeman, Blue Ridge, and the Whitecourt zones.
Key Insights
The 2025 Census Analysis revealed important trends:
- Population Shifts: Woodlands County has 5,254 residents, with long-term residents making up about 60% and more than 25% moving in within the last decade. The population is aging, with notable growth in residents over 60.
- Community Services: Around 63% of households use community halls and event spaces, while fewer than 30% engage with urban-run recreational programs. Recreation use patterns differ significantly between rural and urban zones.
- Destinations: Whitecourt remains the primary hub for groceries, recreation, and healthcare, although Barrhead plays a key role for some rural communities.
- Economic Development: Nearly 68% of residents believe Woodlands County is a good place to invest, with strong but regionally varied support for exploring a Small Modular Reactor project.
- Fire and Service Funding: Road maintenance and snow removal remain top service priorities, with broad support for covering fire call-out costs through County taxation.
Why It Matters
This census analysis equips Woodlands County Council with reliable, representative data to guide planning, service delivery, and investment decisions. By understanding both current realities and future needs, the County is better positioned to build resilient, vibrant communities for all residents.
The report was presented to Woodlands County Council on September 10, 2025.
