Summary Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan is a federal electoral district located in the province of Alberta, Canada. It is situated northeast of the capital city of Edmonton, and covers parts of Strathcona County and Fort Saskatchewan. The district is diverse and has a mix of urban and rural communities.

Population centres The district comprises several population centres, including Sherwood Park, which is one of the fastest growing communities in Alberta. The town has a population of over 70,000 people, and is known for its excellent schools, parks and recreational facilities. Another significant centre is Fort Saskatchewan, a city with a population of over 27,000 people. It boasts a thriving petrochemical industry and is home to several major companies.

Issues and events Between 2019 and 2022, the district has been impacted by a number of local issues and events. One notable event was the Fort Saskatchewan explosion that took place in 2019, which disrupted operations at the nearby petrochemical plants and caused significant damage to the surrounding area. The district has also had to contend with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with local businesses and residents impacted by lockdowns, school closures and other measures.

Economy Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan has a diverse economy with a mix of industries, including petrochemical, construction and retail sectors. Major employers in the area include Dow Chemical, Shell Canada, and Walmart. Recently, the district has experienced economic growth in the construction sector, with several new residential and commercial projects emerging. However, the economy has also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with businesses forced to adapt to changing conditions.

Important landmarks One of the key landmarks in the area is Elk Island National Park, known for its grasslands, forests and lakes, which provide habitat for bison, moose and other wildlife. Other natural attractions in the area include the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, a popular destination for hiking and cross-country skiing. The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, which is an open-air museum showcasing the cultural heritage of Ukrainian settlers in the area, is also an important landmark.

Arts and culture The district has a thriving arts and culture scene, with several notable institutions and events. The Sherwood Park Music Festival, which takes place annually, is one of the largest non-profit music festivals in Canada. The Festival Place Cultural Arts Centre, which features a theatre and gallery space, hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year. Another important institution is the Strathcona County Museum and Archives, which preserves and celebrates the history of the local area.

Electoral issues During the 2021 federal election, the key issues in Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan were the economy and healthcare. Candidates debated issues such as job creation, tax policy and healthcare funding, with a focus on how to support local businesses and improve access to healthcare services.

Community organizations There are several important community organizations in the district, including the Strathcona County Library, which provides access to information and resources for residents, and the Fort Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, which advocates for local businesses. The Strathcona Food Bank is also an important organization, providing food assistance to those in need. Other organizations include the Strathcona County Museum and Archives Society and the Sherwood Park Arts Council.

Multicultural groups Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan has a diverse population, with significant cultural communities including Ukrainian, German and Polish groups. The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is an important institution that celebrates Ukrainian culture and history in the area. There are also several multicultural organizations in the district, such as the Strathcona County Diversity Committee and the Fort Saskatchewan Multicultural Association, which promote understanding and unity among different cultural groups.

In conclusion, Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan is a diverse and dynamic district with a mix of urban and rural communities. It has a thriving arts and culture scene, a range of natural attractions, and is home to several major employers. While the district has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other local issues, it remains a vibrant and welcoming community.