Complete Travel Guide to Manning, Canada

Manning Manning is a town in northern Alberta, Canada. It is known as the "Land of the Mighty Moose". It is on Highway 35 on the Notikewin River, approximately 73 km (45 mi) north of Peace River. Positioned at coordinates 56.91683°N, -117.61945°E, Manning occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Manning place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 465.0 meters above sea level, Manning benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Manning creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 1126 residents, Manning maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Manning represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Manning reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Alberta province, Manning contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Manning in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Manning discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Manning

History The community of Manning sprung up as a result of growing agricultural development following the First World War as the Dominion government sought to provide land to returning soldiers to participate in the workforce The Soldier Settlement Board provided incentives to veterans to begin farming unsettled tracts on the Battle River Prairie 75 km (47 mi) north of the Town of Peace River and west of the Peace River.

By 1921 the district had a population of 500 and the community of Battle River Prairie (later Notikewin) grew as a regional hub In the late-1920s the communities of Hotchkiss and North Star sprang up in the region The northern communities suffered from limited medical resources, which were facilitated by mobile clinics staffed with registered nurses.

In 1928 nurse Mary Little was assigned to the region, and in 1929 she was replaced by Dr Mary Percy, who was recruited from England Percy served the area until 1937, when the new hospital was completed The population continued to grow in the 1930s, with farmers moving from the drought-stricken regions of southern Alberta.

Pressure began to grow for the construction of a hospital in the region, and the Women's Missionary Society of the United Church of Canada began collecting funds for the construction, with the Government of Alberta agreeing to match funds collected for the new hospital.

In fall 1936 construction began on the eight-bed Battle River Hospital, which was completed on September 4, 1937, and later become the hub of the new Aurora settlement The land was donated by John Robertson, and resident doctor Arthur Doige was secured to operate the hospital.

Construction was supervised by W Buchanon, and the structure included a operating room, waiting room, kitchen, and accommodation on the second floor for three nurses The official settlement was founded by American Patrick "Pat" Larry Craig, who purchased land on the south bank of the Notikewin River and built the Aurora hotel, secured a liquor licence and constructed other buildings after the Second World War.

The settlement originally intended to be founded under the name _Aurora_ , but was rejected by the postal authorities because of possibility of confusion with Aurora, Ontario In 1947 the Mackenzie Highway was pushed through the region, and the community became a government construction and maintenance centre, and quickly eclipsed North Star and Notikewin in population.

At a public meeting in 1947, the community was renamed in honour of Ernest Manning, who had become premier of Alberta four years earlier in 1943, and served in the role until 1968 Manning was incorporated as a village on December 31, 1951, and later a town on January 1, 1957.

During the 1950s the Manning Municipal Hospital was constructed at a cost of $127,000, and later in September 1962, the Great Slave Lake Railway was completed by Canadian National Railways linking the town to the rail network ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ _**c**_.

The historical trajectory of Manning demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Manning reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Manning remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

The topographic characteristics of Manning result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Manning region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Manning area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Manning has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Manning demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Manning create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

Climate Manning has a subarctic climate, very close to being a humid continental climate, with both May and September averaging only fractionally under 10 °C (50 °F). There are vast differences between the warm summers and very cold winters, although areas much further south more eastward in Canada have equally cold winters and cooler summers. The climate data is from minor settlement Notikewin very close to the town. Climate data for Notikewin/Manning Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 14 (57) 12. 6) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −10. 2) Daily mean °C (°F) −16. 8) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −22. 4) Record low °C (°F) −51 (−60) −49 (−56) −40. 9) −27 (−17) −39. 1) −45 (−49) −51 (−60) Average precipitation mm (inches) 37. Rainfall patterns in Manning determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. “Notikewin, Alberta”. Retrieved 2 January 2015. “Notikewin Temperature Averages”. Temperature patterns in Manning influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Retrieved 2 January 2015. “Notikewin Temperature Averages”. Temperature patterns in Manning influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Retrieved 2 January 2015.

The climatic regime of Manning reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Manning create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Manning determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Manning create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Manning demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Manning include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Federal census population historyYearPop. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1956726— 1961896+23. 6% Source:Statistics Canada In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Manning had a population of 1,126 living in 471 of its 540 total private dwellings, a change of -4. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 8% from its 2016 population of 1,183. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 3. 43 sq mi), it had a population density of 303. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1/sq mi) in 2021. In the 2016 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Manning recorded a population of 1,183 living in 484 of its 544 total private dwellings, a 1. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6% change from its 2011 population of 1,164. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 4. 56 sq mi), it had a population density of 292. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 5/sq mi) in 2016. “Table 6: Population by sex, for census subdivisions, 1956 and 1951”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Census of Canada, 1956. Ottawa: Dominion Bureau of Statistics. “Table 9: Population by census subdivisions, 1966 by sex, and 1961”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1966 Census of Canada. Western Provinces. Population: Divisions and Subdivisions. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Ottawa: Dominion Bureau of Statistics. “Table 3: Population for census divisions and subdivisions, 1971 and 1976”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1976 Census of Canada. Census Divisions and Subdivisions, Western Provinces and the Territories. Population: Geographic Distributions. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Ottawa: Statistics Canada. “Table 2: Census Subdivisions in Alphabetical Order, Showing Population Rank, Canada, 1981”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 1981 Census of Canada. Census subdivisions in decreasing population order. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Ottawa: Statistics Canada. ISBN 0-660-51563-6. “Table 2: Population and Dwelling Counts, for Census Divisions and Census Subdivisions, 1986 and 1991 – 100% Data”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Population and Dwelling Counts – Census Divisions and Census Subdivisions. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Ottawa: Statistics Canada. ISBN 0-660-57115-3. “Population and Dwelling Counts, for Canada, Provinces and Territories, and Census Divisions, 2001 and 1996 Censuses – 100% Data (Alberta)”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 2019-05-25. “Population and dwelling counts, for Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), 2006 and 2001 censuses – 100% data (Alberta)”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 2019-05-25. ^ a b “Population and dwelling counts, for Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), 2016 and 2011 censuses – 100% data (Alberta)”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Statistics Canada. February 8, 2017. Retrieved February 8, 2017. “Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities)”. The demographic composition of Manning reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Statistics Canada. February 9, 2022. Retrieved February 9, 2022.

The cultural landscape of Manning represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Manning reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Manning continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Manning provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Manning demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Manning provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

The economic structure of Manning reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Manning often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Manning serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Manning demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Manning has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Manning focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Manning reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Manning.

Regional connectivity from Manning provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Manning contains two public schools which are part of the Peace River School Division No. 10, Manning Elementary which provides kindergarten to grade six, and Paul Rowe High School which provides grades seven through twelve. Manning has one separate school under the Holy Family Catholic Regional Division No. 37, Rosary Separate School which provides kindergarten to grade nine. 1. Manning Elementary School

Educational institutions in Manning serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Manning

Successful visits to Manning require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Manning often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Manning include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Manning extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.