Population: 2003 - 922,315  The City   Calgary is the economic center for Alberta, the most robust region in Canada. As one of the fastest growing cities in North America, Calgary has quickly become one of the most attractive destinations in the world for business and lifestyle.   Driven by Alberta's energy sector, Calgary is the home to many of the most influencial corporations in the world. This activity has brougth with it an economic diversity that has transformed the city from a quiet prairie town to a hub of commerce and social life. Migration to Calgary has brought a vibrant and youthful workforce into the city, enriching the lifestyle and attractions in the region.

The Province

Alberta has one of the world's most productive agricultural economies, producing about 25 percent of the value of Canada's annual output. Approximately 22 million hectares of cultivated and uncultivated land are used as pasture and forage for livestock. While wheat remains the primary crop, the production of new crops continues to expand as the industry diversifies. The province maintains the largest livestock population in Canada.

 

Long known as Canada's "energy province," Alberta has more than 65 percent of the country's reserves of conventional crude oil, over 80 percent of its natural gas, and all of its bitumen and oil-sands reserves.

*Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition, Copyright (c) 2003   

 

Attractions The city of Calgary boasts many of the most exciting events and attractions in North America. Foremost in this regard in the annual hosting of the world-renowned Calgary Stampede, a ten day celebration of rodeo and western lifestyle known as the "greatest outdoor show on earth". Calgary entertained the world as host of the 1988 Winter Olympics. This legacy lives on as the city has since been the center of winter athletics training in Canada, providing residents with world class facilities for sports and recreation. In addition, Calgarians enjoy the beautiful Bow River, which flows from the Rocky Mountains east through the city. The Bow River is regarded as one of the world's finest trout fishing destinations, and its pristine river valley contains countless recreational trails and wildlife habitats.

 

Only an hours drive west of Calgary lays the Rocky Mountains, home to some the world's most breathtaking mountains scenary and outdoor recreation. Unparalleled opportunities for skiing, hiking, biking, camping, fishing and hiking can be found within a short drive of Calgary in the Rockies.