In the heart of southeastern Alberta’s grasslands lies Special Areas 2, 3, and 4. Special Areas is made up of the communities of Consort, Empress, Hanna, Oyen, Veteran, and Youngstown, and many farmers and ranchers who live in the surrounding Special Areas. Just a couple of hours away from major urban centres, Special Areas offers all the amenities of big-city life without the inconveniences of traffic and crowds.
The Special Areas Board was set up under the Special Areas Act in response to the extreme hardship of the depression in the 1930s. This region was first populated by settlers who braved the weather and harsh living conditions to carve out lives for themselves.
Since then, the Special Areas Board has been providing rural municipal government services and public land management to residents and businesses. The Board looks after roads and parks, provides water and emergency services, manages public land and community pastures, and develops economic and conservation strategies.
Living in the Special Areas is a unique experience. With ample land and accessible real estate prices, there are endless opportunities to make your dreams a reality, while still leaving plenty of time to relax on the front porch or explore the great outdoors. Get to know our region and discover why it’s a great place to start a business, raise a family, visit, or retire.
Congratulations to all the families in Special Areas who received the 2026 BMO Farm Family Award. Special Area No. 2 – WaltonFamily (Walton Land & Cattle) Special Area No. 3 – Andrew Family (Andrew Ranches) Th...
The Special Areas Board is holding a public hearing on Tuesday, July 28 at 1:00 pm in Hanna, AB at the Special Areas Board Office – Main Boardroom (212-2nd Ave. W.). You can learn more about the proposed Bridge Closure Board ...
Community members, students from Youngstown School, and Special Areas representatives gathered at Blood Indian Park on June 17 to celebrate a major milestone: the unveiling of the Special Areas logo on a STARS air ambulance h...
