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A SPECIAL INTEREST SECTION BY MEDIAPLANET
Canada's Most Innovative Communities WOODLANDS COUNTY:
Affordable, Connected, and Ready for Growth
S PHOTO COURTESY OF WOODLANDS COUNT Y
Dave Kusch Reeve & Councillor, Woodlands County
Woodlands County offers affordable land, strong energy and agriculture sectors, and modern planning tools that make investment fast, predictable, and future-focused. Woodlands County Community Services Team
tretching across more than 7,600 square kilometres of forests, fields, river valleys, and vibrant rural communities, Woodlands County is emerging as one of Alberta’s most promising regions for long-term growth. Located northwest of Edmonton and grounded in the traditions of Treaty 6 and Treaty 8 territories, the County offers a rare combination of natural beauty, economic opportunity, and an exceptional quality of life. Boasting a modern transportation network, Woodlands County is highly connected and investment-ready. Highway 43 links the region directly to North America, while Highways 32 and 43 serve as a high-load energy corridor. The County also features a CN Rail line with multiple transload facilities and the CYZU Regional Airport. The population has grown from 4,558 in 2021 to 5,254 in 2025, clear proof that families and businesses are choosing Woodlands for long-term success.
A strategic vision for growth “Guided by a clear mission to create exceptional opportunities for families, businesses, and industries with an open-for-business attitude, Woodlands County has taken significant steps to modernize our approach
to development,” says Reeve Dave Kusch. A new Municipal Development Plan (MDP) and Land Use Bylaw (LUB) streamline approvals, reduce red tape, and create a faster, more predictable path for investment. The County’s Planning and Economic Development teams work closely to guide investors through a clear permitting process, delivering a true concierge experience. The LUB supports a wide range of industries, including energy production, resource processing, data centres, emerging technology, and agriculture. The County works collaboratively with neighbouring municipalities, regional alliances, and provincial programs to strengthen economic resilience and respond to emerging rural trends.
Advancing energy, agriculture, and innovation Economic diversification is planned for and encouraged. Woodlands County’s strengths in manufacturing, energy, agriculture, forestry, and tourism continue to evolve through innovation and sustainable development. The region is home to renewable power generation at the Whitecourt Power Plant, strong geothermal potential, and an approved carbon sequestration license in the Athabasca
Banks area. Agriculture remains vital, with high-yield crops, cattle operations, and regenerative practices Guided by a clear mission that improve soil health to create exceptional and reduce emissions. opportunities for families, Local businesses like businesses, and industries with Canfor integrate bioan open-for-business attitude, energ y solut ions, Woodlands County has while grid upgrades taken significant steps to and AltaLink’s $26 modernize our approach million battery storage to development. system ensure stable, modern infrastructure.
A place for builders, innovators, and digital nomads Affordability remains one of Woodlands County’s greatest advantages. Inexpensive large land parcels, flexible zoning, and space for residential, agricultural, and industrial development create extraordinary value. Over a quarter of residents have moved to the region within the last decade, reflecting the County’s appeal. With modern infrastructure, natural beauty, and growing partnerships with remote-work platforms like YOLO Nomads, the County offers a compelling lifestyle for digital workers seeking balance and opportunity.
Woodlands County is naturally innovative and ready to welcome your next investment. Learn more at woodlands.ab.ca.
This article was sponsored by Woodlands County.
How Fort St. John Can Help Find What You're Made of With urban living costs rising, many Canadians are choosing smaller communities, like Fort St. John for its amenities and small-town warmth. Ken Donohue
W
ith a population of more than 24,000, Fort St. John is the largest city in northeastern BC and one of the fastest growing in northern BC. It’s a city full of energy, literally. It’s called BC’s Energy Capital, a resourcerich region that helps the community boast one of the country’s highest standards of living, with a median household income of over $101,000. Affordable homes, friendly neighbours, and more hours of sunshine than anywhere in BC are just some things you’ll love about Fort St. John. And what’s not to like about an average commute time of 16 minutes?
Job opportunities abound in diverse sectors, including construction, energy, retail, healthcare, and food services. But it’s not all work and no play. Fort St. John is a place that’s easy to balance work and leisure. Located in the heart of the beautiful Peace River region, take advantage of four distinct seasons and access to endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Enjoy camping and lakeside fun in the summer then sledding, ice fishing and cross-country skiing in winter. With over 25 kilometers of trails that weave throughout the city and along the many parks and green spaces, there’s always something new waiting to be explored.
Learn how Fort St. John can help you enjoy life and be successful at northbound andfound.ca
This article was sponsored by Fort St. John.
For the ones who left to grow, home is calling you north. Find where you belong in Fort St. John
NorthboundAndFound.ca
Publisher: Katie Werner Business Development Manager: Luca Bidini Country Manager: Samantha Taylor Content & Client Success Manager: Nicole Kansakar Creative Director: Kylie Armishaw All images are from Getty Images unless otherwise credited. This section was created by Mediaplanet and did not involve The National Post or its editorial departments. Send all inquiries to ca.editorial@mediaplanet.com.