Hamiota, Manitoba
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Hamiota is a growing community located on Provincial Trunk Highway 21 (PTH 21) in Manitoba, Canada, midway between the Trans-Canada Highway and the Yellowhead Highway.
Hamiota has a population of 850 people, including the rural population the population is 1,360. It is located in Western Manitoba, 84 kilometers to the northwest of the city of Brandon, Manitoba. It is surrounded by the Rural Municipality of Hamiota. The trading area radius of 20 kilometers has approximately 10,000 people. The Town of Hamiota has seen continued growth for over 25 years.
Hamiota is known for its local sports teams, active arts and culture community, and quality heath care. Hamiota was the home of Dr. John E. Hudson ("Dr. Ed": 1917–2003), a member of the Order of Canada (2001) and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Anniversary Medal (2003). Dr. Hudson led Hamiota District Health Center to become the model rural health care facility in Manitoba. A memorial statue of Dr. Hudson was erected near the hospital in 2004. MP Inky Mark was a good friend of Dr. Hudson, and was the main force behind the statue project. With local support from the Town and RM of Hamiota, the project was completed. Hamiota is the birthplace of former Scottish rugby player Grahame Budge and Dallas Smith who played hockey with the Boston Bruins.
The agriculture, healthcare and education sectors are the major employers within the area. Within the last four years, the region has seen significant growth in the agriculture sector. Over 100 new jobs have been created in Hamiota and area in the last 3–4 years with many of these in the expanding livestock sector.
Hamiota District Health Care Centre embraced the "community health care concept in the early 1970s.
The community also demonstrates a balance between recreation and cultural/arts activities. Hamiota has many varied and newly developed recreational facilities with associated programming. After healthcare, Hamiota is recognized for its support of sports programming within the community. The community also offers arts/cultural opportunities through the new Heritage Arts Center.
The educational system in Hamiota has continually remained above provincial averages in Provincial Exams and provides an integrated academic, recreational and music curriculum.
Hamiota's retail and service sectors are diverse and provide a full range of services for residents and surrounding area. The retail trade radius ranges from 15 kilometers to over 65 kilometers for some operations.
The Pope National Wildlife Reserve was originally used as a water storage area for the railway during the age of steam locomotives, these parcels of land were returned to the federal government with the advent of the diesel engine. This area was designated as a national wildlife reserve in 1972. It is one of the few federally-owned parcels of land remaining in Manitoba, and is an important water source for the wetlands and marshes located downstream.
Hamiota also has one of the few known nesting sites for the Western Plains Garter Snake a species once thought to be extinct. A hibernaculum was built, 6.5 kilometers west of town, for the snakes.
Pope National Wildlife Reserve — This reserve is located within the Rural Municipality of Hamiota and represents one of only two federally owned parcels of land within the Province of Manitoba. Originally utilized as a water source storage area for the steam-operated railways, it was later determined as surplus land by the railway and returned to the ownership of the federal government who identified it as a national wildlife reserve in 1972.
Mid-West Arts Council — Formally known as the Royal Bank Building, the Heritage Arts Center was originally constructed as the Union Bank in 1905. Now occupied by the Mid-West Arts Council, the building provides a space for exhibiting various forms of art, serving as the only exhibition space within the district.
Hamiota Pioneer Club Museum — Features artifacts relating to the settlement and development of the district, including a taxidermy display, the former McConnell railway station and their most recent addition — Oakner Church. Open Sundays in July and August or by appointment.
Pitlockery Trail — Takes walkers east of Hamiota to view the marsh life and enjoy the sounds of the varied bird population, which thrives in the area. Spring brings warblers, blackbirds and a wide array of ducks. Many stay to raise their young for the summer, only to migrate south in the fall season. Chickadees keep watch over the frozen marsh during winter, awaiting the return of spring. Located along the former railway line.
Chumah Trail — Leads outdoor enthusiasts west of Hamiota to enjoy the prairie grasslands and native vegetation. A viewing platform, constructed at the end of the trail branching off to the north, affords bird watching enthusiasts a quiet place to get out their binoculars. With more tree and bush cover, this trail is better situated for cross country skiing in the winter and is groomed regularly. Located along the former railway line.
Hamiota Municipal Park — Established in 1967 as part of Canada's centennial celebrations, it is home to seven ball diamonds, an outdoor equestrian arena, horse and cattle barns, soccer pitch, beach volleyball, children's playground, 28 site serviced campground, Hamiota Municipal Museum and the Hamiota Aquatic Centre. Conveniently located next to the Hamiota & District Sports Complex and the Hamiota Golf Course, the park is the host location of a variety of events on an annual basis.
Hamiota Golf Club — A public 9-hole grass green facility. The new licensed clubhouse boasts a food concession, large lounge area, as well as an outdoor patio area.
Hamiota Aquatic Center — A modern facility complete with change rooms and showers.
