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Coordinates: 50°43′34″N 113°58′39″W / 50.72611°N 113.97750°W / 50.72611; -113.97750[1]
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{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{use Canadian English|date=March 2024}}
{{Short description|Town in Alberta, Canada}}
{{Short description|Town in Alberta, Canada}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name = Okotoks
| name = Okotoks
| official_name = Town of Okotoks
| official_name = Town of Okotoks
| other_name =
| other_name =
| native_name = <!-- for cities whose native name is not in English -->
| native_name = <!-- for cities whose native name is not in English -->
| nickname =
| nickname =
| settlement_type = Town<!--For Town or Village (Leave blank for the default City)-->
| settlement_type = Town<!--For Town or Village (Leave blank for the default City)-->
| motto = Historic Past, Sustainable Future
| motto = Historic Past, Sustainable Future
| image_skyline = Okotoks2009.JPG
| image_skyline = Okotoks2009.JPG
| image_caption = A view of Okotoks; overlooking downtown and facing south.
| image_caption = A view of Okotoks; overlooking downtown and facing south.
| image_flag =
| image_flag =
| image_seal =
| image_seal =
| image_shield =
| image_shield =
| image_blank_emblem = Okotoks AB logo.jpg
| image_blank_emblem = Okotoks AB logo.jpg
| blank_emblem_type = Logo
| blank_emblem_type = Logo
| blank_emblem_size = 150px
| blank_emblem_size = 150px
| image_map =
| image_map =
| map_caption =
| map_caption =
| pushpin_map = CAN AB Foothills#Canada Alberta#Canada
| pushpin_map = CAN AB Foothills#Canada Alberta#Canada
| pushpin_label_position = <!-- the position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none -->
| pushpin_label_position = <!-- the position of the pushpin label: left, right, top, bottom, none -->
| pushpin_map_caption =
| pushpin_map_caption =
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_name = Canada
| subdivision_name = Canada
Line 32: Line 34:
| subdivision_name4 = [[Foothills County]]
| subdivision_name4 = [[Foothills County]]
| government_footnotes = <ref>{{AMOS}}</ref>
| government_footnotes = <ref>{{AMOS}}</ref>
| government_type =
| government_type =
| leader_title = Mayor
| leader_title = Mayor
| leader_name = Tanya Thorn
| leader_name = Tanya Thorn
Line 45: Line 47:
| leader_name4 = [[RJ Sigurdson]]
| leader_name4 = [[RJ Sigurdson]]
| established_title = Founded
| established_title = Founded
| established_date =
| established_date =
| established_title1 = Incorporated<ref name=AMATownProfiles>{{cite web | url=http://www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/cfml/MunicipalProfiles/basicReport/TOWN.PDF | publisher=[[Alberta Municipal Affairs]] | title=Location and History Profile: Town of Okotoks | page=435 | date=June 17, 2016 | access-date=June 19, 2016}}</ref>
| established_title1 = Incorporated<ref name=AMATownProfiles>{{cite web | url=http://www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/cfml/MunicipalProfiles/basicReport/TOWN.PDF | publisher=[[Alberta Municipal Affairs]] | title=Location and History Profile: Town of Okotoks | page=435 | date=17 June 2016 | access-date=19 June 2016}}</ref>
| established_date1 = &nbsp;
| established_date1 = &nbsp;
| established_title2 = &nbsp;•&nbsp;[[List of villages in Alberta|Village]]
| established_title2 = &nbsp;•&nbsp;[[List of villages in Alberta|Village]]
| established_date2 = October 25, 1899
| established_date2 = 25 October 1899
| established_title3 = &nbsp;•&nbsp;[[List of towns in Alberta|Town]]
| established_title3 = &nbsp;•&nbsp;[[List of towns in Alberta|Town]]
| established_date3 = June 1, 1904
| established_date3 = 1 June 1904
| area_footnotes = &nbsp;(2021)<ref name=2021census/>
| area_footnotes = &nbsp;(2021)<ref name=2021census/>
| area_land_km2 = 38.55
| area_land_km2 = 38.55
| area_urban_km2 =
| area_urban_km2 =
| area_metro_km2 =
| area_metro_km2 =
| population_as_of = 2021
| population_as_of = 2021
| population_footnotes = <ref name=2021census/><ref name=2021censusPC>{{cite web | url=https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810001101 | title=Population and dwelling counts: Canada and population centres | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=February 9, 2022 | accessdate=February 13, 2022}}</ref><ref name=2021censusCMA>{{cite web | url=https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810000501 | title=Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, census metropolitan areas and census agglomerations | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=February 9, 2022 | accessdate=February 13, 2022}}</ref>
| population_footnotes = <ref name=2021census/><ref name=2021censusPC>{{cite web | url=https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810001101 | title=Population and dwelling counts: Canada and population centres | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=9 February 2022 | access-date=13 February 2022}}</ref><ref name=2021censusCMA>{{cite web | url=https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810000501 | title=Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, census metropolitan areas and census agglomerations | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=9 February 2022 | access-date=13 February 2022}}</ref>
| population_note =
| population_note =
| population_total = 30405 <!-- 2021 StatCan census population only per [[WP:CANPOP]]; do not replace with latest municipal census population count; this municipal census population count can go in the population_blank1_title and population_blank1 parameters further below and can be noted in the article body (so long as it doesn't replace the 2021 StatCan census population in the body). -->
| population_total = 30405 <!-- 2021 StatCan census population only per [[WP:CANPOP]]; do not replace with latest municipal census population count; this municipal census population count can go in the population_blank1_title and population_blank1 parameters further below and can be noted in the article body (so long as it doesn't replace the 2021 StatCan census population in the body). -->
| population_density_km2 = 788.7
| population_density_km2 = 788.7
| population_urban =
| population_urban =
| population_density_urban_km2 =
| population_density_urban_km2 =
| population_metro =
| population_metro =
| population_density_metro_km2 =
| population_density_metro_km2 =
| population_blank1_title = [[Municipal census in Canada|Municipal census]] ([[Alberta municipal censuses, 2015|2015]])
| population_blank1_title = [[Municipal census in Canada|Municipal census]] ([[Alberta municipal censuses, 2015|2015]])
| population_blank1 = 28016<ref name=2015census/>
| population_blank1 = 28016<ref name=2015census/>
| population_blank2_title = Estimate (2020)
| population_blank2_title = Estimate (2020)
| population_blank2 = 31708<ref name=2020estimates>{{cite web | url= https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/c45f2f78-0d6c-4a7e-98bc-313fbb232040/resource/bc6ace82-9be4-404c-9d1c-995a392d2a5a/download/population-estimates-ab-census-subdivision-municipal-2016-to-current.xlsx | title= Census Subdivision (Municipal) Population Estimates, July 1, 2016 to 2020, Alberta | publisher=[[Alberta Municipal Affairs]] | date=March 23, 2021 | access-date=October 8, 2021}}</ref>
| population_blank2 = 31708<ref name=2020estimates>{{cite web | url= https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/c45f2f78-0d6c-4a7e-98bc-313fbb232040/resource/bc6ace82-9be4-404c-9d1c-995a392d2a5a/download/population-estimates-ab-census-subdivision-municipal-2016-to-current.xlsx | title= Census Subdivision (Municipal) Population Estimates, July 1, 2016 to 2020, Alberta | publisher=[[Alberta Municipal Affairs]] | date=23 March 2021 | access-date=8 October 2021}}</ref>
| coordinates = {{coord|50|43.5|N|113|58.5|W|region:CA-AB|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|50|43|34|N|113|58|39|W|region:CA-AB|notes=<ref>{{Cite cgndb|IANAR|Okotoks}}</ref>||display=inline,title}}
| timezone = [[Mountain Standard Time|MST]]
| timezone = [[Mountain Standard Time|MST]]
| utc_offset = −07:00
| utc_offset = −07:00
| timezone_DST = MDT
| timezone_DST = MDT
| utc_offset_DST = −06:00
| utc_offset_DST = −06:00
| elevation_footnotes = <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.safetycodes.ab.ca/Public/Documents/PSSSOP_Handbook_Version_12_Online_Feb_21_2012b.pdf | title=Alberta Private Sewage Systems 2009 Standard of Practice Handbook: Appendix A.3 Alberta Design Data (A.3.A. Alberta Climate Design Data by Town) | publisher=Safety Codes Council | type=PDF | pages=212–215 (PDF pages 226–229) | date=January 2012 | access-date=October 9, 2013}}</ref>
| elevation_footnotes = <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.safetycodes.ab.ca/Public/Documents/PSSSOP_Handbook_Version_12_Online_Feb_21_2012b.pdf | title=Alberta Private Sewage Systems 2009 Standard of Practice Handbook: Appendix A.3 Alberta Design Data (A.3.A. Alberta Climate Design Data by Town) | publisher=Safety Codes Council | type=PDF | pages=212–215 (PDF pages 226–229) | date=January 2012 | access-date=9 October 2013}}</ref>
| elevation_m = 1051
| elevation_m = 1051
| postal_code_type = [[Canadian postal code#Forward sortation areas|Forward sortation area]]
| postal_code_type = [[Canadian postal code#Forward sortation areas|Forward sortation area]]
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| blank1_info = [[Sheep River (Alberta)|Sheep River]]
| blank1_info = [[Sheep River (Alberta)|Sheep River]]
| website = {{Official website|www.okotoks.ca}}
| website = {{Official website|www.okotoks.ca}}
| footnotes =
| footnotes =
}}
}}


'''Okotoks''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|oʊ|k|ə|t|oʊ|k|s}} {{respell|OH|kə|tohks}}, originally {{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɒ|k|ə|t|ɒ|k|s}} {{respell|OK|ə|toks}}) is a town in the [[Calgary Metropolitan Region|Calgary Region]] of [[Alberta]], Canada. It is on the [[Sheep River]], approximately {{convert|38|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of [[Downtown Calgary]]. Okotoks has emerged as a [[bedroom community]] of [[Calgary]].<ref name=cbc>{{cite news | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/fast-growing-okotoks-wrestles-with-sustainability-1.668219 | title=2006 census | author=The Canadian Press | publisher=Canadian Press | access-date=2007-03-14 | work=CBC News | date=2007-03-14}}</ref> According to the 2021 Federal Census, the town has a population of 30,214<ref name="2011censusABmunis">{{cite web |date=2023-02-01 |title=Profile table, Census Profile, 2021 Census of Population - Okotoks [Population centre], Alberta |url=https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&SearchText=Okotoks&DGUIDlist=2021S05100606&GENDERlist=1,2,3&STATISTIClist=1&HEADERlist=0 |access-date=2023-06-14 |website=Statistics Canada |publisher=Government of Canada}}</ref> making it the [[List of towns in Alberta|largest town]] in Alberta.
'''Okotoks''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|oʊ|k|ə|t|oʊ|k|s}} {{respell|OH|kə|tohks}}, originally {{IPAc-en|ˈ|ɒ|k|ə|t|ɒ|k|s}} {{respell|OK|ə|toks}}) is a town in the [[Calgary Metropolitan Region|Calgary Region]] of [[Alberta]], Canada. It is on the [[Sheep River]], approximately {{cvt|38|km}} south of [[Downtown Calgary]]. Okotoks has emerged as a [[bedroom community]] of [[Calgary]].<ref name=cbc>{{cite news | url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/fast-growing-okotoks-wrestles-with-sustainability-1.668219 | title=2006 census | author=The Canadian Press | publisher=Canadian Press | access-date=2007-03-14 | work=CBC News | date=2007-03-14}}</ref> According to the 2021 Federal Census, the town has a population of 30,214,<ref name="2011censusABmunis">{{cite web |date=2023-02-01 |title=Profile table, Census Profile, 2021 Census of Population - Okotoks [Population centre], Alberta |url=https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&SearchText=Okotoks&DGUIDlist=2021S05100606&GENDERlist=1,2,3&STATISTIClist=1&HEADERlist=0 |access-date=2023-06-14 |website=Statistics Canada |publisher=Government of Canada}}</ref> making it the [[List of towns in Alberta|largest town]] in Alberta.


== History ==
== History ==
[[File:Bigrock.jpg|thumb|left|[[Big Rock (glacial erratic)|Big Rock]] glacial erratic]]
[[File:Bigrock.jpg|thumb|left|[[Big Rock (glacial erratic)|Big Rock]] glacial erratic]]
The town's name is derived from ''"ohkotok"'', the [[Blackfoot]] [[First Nations in Canada|First Nation]] word for "rock". The name may refer to [[Big Rock (glacial erratic)|Big Rock]], the largest [[glacial erratic]] in the [[Foothills Erratics Train]], situated about {{convert|7|km|mi|abbr=on}} west of the town.<ref>[http://www.okotoks.ca/default.aspx?cid=337&lang=1 Town of Okotoks - Okotoks' Beginnings] Retrieved 2012-02-10</ref>
The town's name is derived from ''"ohkotok"'', the [[Blackfoot language]] word for "rock". The name may refer to [[Big Rock (glacial erratic)|Big Rock]], the largest [[glacial erratic]] in the [[Foothills Erratics Train]], situated about {{cvt|7|km}} west of the town.<ref>[http://www.okotoks.ca/default.aspx?cid=337&lang=1 Town of Okotoks - Okotoks' Beginnings] Retrieved 2012-02-10</ref>


Before European settlement, journeying First Nations used the rock as a marker to find the river crossing situated at Okotoks. The tribes were nomadic and often followed large [[American Bison|buffalo]] herds for their sustenance. [[David Thompson (explorer)|David Thompson]] explored the area as early as 1800. Soon [[trading post]]s were established, including one built in 1874 at the Sheep River crossing in the current town. This crossing was on a trade route called the [[Macleod Trail (Calgary)|Macleod Trail]], which led from [[Fort Benton, Montana]] to Calgary.
Before European settlement, journeying [[First Nations in Canada|First Nations]], members of the [[Blackfoot Confederacy]], used the rock as a marker to find the river crossing situated at Okotoks. The tribes were nomadic and often followed large [[American Bison|buffalo]] herds for their sustenance. [[David Thompson (explorer)|David Thompson]] explored the area as early as 1800.
[[File:Okotoks Trail Sign.jpeg|thumb|left|This section of the Old Macleod Trail in Okotoks passed through a ravine that made it easier for wagons, stagecoaches and horse riders to get up the northern escarpment of the Sheep River valley.]]


In the late 1870s and early 1880s, the site of the future town was a river crossing location on the freight wagon route from [[Fort Macleod]] to [[Fort Calgary]]. [[Stagecoaches]] also used the trail. Known as the [[Old Macleod Trail|Macleod Trail]] or the Macleod-Calgary Trail, the route was an extension of the Fort Benton-Fort Macleod Trail, which led from [[Fort Benton, Montana]] to Fort Macleod. There were two fords on the Sheep River, and two stopping houses were established on the north side of the river for rest and shelter for the travellers. Because of these stopping houses, the area attracted settlement. Once the railway was built through the town in 1892, the old trail fell out of use.<ref>{{cite news|title=Pioneers' wagon route receives marker|url=https://www.westernwheel.ca/local-news/pioneers-wagon-route-receives-marker-1526096|access-date=18 June 2024|work=Western Wheel|date=12 October 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://hermis.alberta.ca/ARHP/Details.aspx?DeptID=1&ObjectID=4664-0450 |title= Alberta Register of Historic Places - Macleod Trail Cultural Landscape |access-date= 18 June 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.pc.gc.ca/apps/dfhd/page_nhs_eng.aspx?id=1587 |title= Fort Macleod Trail National Historic Event |access-date= 18 June 2024}}</ref>
In 1879, the area saw the killing of the last buffalo. Government leasing of land for one cent per acre ($2.47/km²) began in 1880. This created a major change in the region. The first settlers arrived in 1882.<ref>{{cite book|last=Okotoks and District Historical Society|title=A century of memories : Okotoks and District, 1883-1983|year=1983|asin=B000XQVF0K|oclc=12201781|page=6|url=http://www.ourfutureourpast.ca/loc_hist/page.aspx?id=3540186}}</ref>


In 1879, the area saw the killing of the last buffalo. Government leasing of land for {{cvt|0.01|$/acre}} or {{cvt|2.47|$/km2}} began in 1880. This created a major change in the region. The first settlers arrived in 1882.<ref>{{cite book|last=Okotoks and District Historical Society|title=A century of memories : Okotoks and District, 1883-1983|year=1983|asin=B000XQVF0K|oclc=12201781|page=6|url=https://digitalcollections.ucalgary.ca/archive/A--century-of-memories---Okotoks-and-District--1883-1983-2R3BF1O13H9RL.html}}</ref>
A community grew around a [[sawmill]] that was established in 1891, and it would grow in size. The last stagecoach stopped in Okotoks in 1891 when rail service between Calgary and [[Fort Macleod]] replaced horse-drawn travel. By 1897 the community name had changed three times, first from Sheep Creek, to Dewdney after [[Edgar Dewdney]] the [[Lieutenant Governor of the Northwest Territories]], and later being informed by post office authorities in Ottawa of an older settlement named [[Dewdney, British Columbia|Dewdney]] in [[Lower Mainland, British Columbia]], the name Okotoks was chosen by local businessman [[John Lineham]].<ref name="CgyHld1985">{{cite news |last1=Peach |first1=Jack |title=Pioneer entrepreneur left name on map |work=[[Calgary Herald]] |date=April 13, 1985 |page=G18}}</ref> The rail line is still a main line south to the U.S. border, but the last of the passenger service ([[Dayliner]] unit) ended in 1971.<ref>Train Web. [http://www.trainweb.org/oldtimetrains/london_dayliner.html London Dayliner]</ref>

A community grew around a [[sawmill]] that was established in 1891, and it would grow in size. The last stagecoach stopped in Okotoks in 1891 when rail service between Calgary and Fort Macleod replaced horse-drawn travel.

By 1897, the community name had changed three times, first from Sheep Creek, to Dewdney after [[Edgar Dewdney]] the [[Lieutenant Governor of the Northwest Territories]], and later being informed by post office authorities in Ottawa of an older settlement named [[Dewdney, British Columbia|Dewdney]] in [[Lower Mainland, British Columbia]], the name Okotoks was chosen by local businessman [[John Lineham]].<ref name="CgyHld1985">{{cite news |last1=Peach |first1=Jack |title=Pioneer entrepreneur left name on map |work=[[Calgary Herald]] |date=13 April 1985 |page=G18}}</ref> The rail line is still a main line south to the United States border, but the last of the passenger service ([[Dayliner]] unit) ended in 1971.<ref>Train Web. [http://www.trainweb.org/oldtimetrains/london_dayliner.html London Dayliner]</ref>


In 2007, the energy efficient [[Drake Landing Solar Community]] was established in Okotoks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/media/newsreleases/2007/200784_e.htm|title=Unique Community a Model for a Greener, Healthier Canada|author=Natural Resources Canada|author-link=Natural Resources Canada|access-date=2008-02-09 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071106023111/http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/media/newsreleases/2007/200784_e.htm <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = 2007-11-06}}</ref>
In 2007, the energy efficient [[Drake Landing Solar Community]] was established in Okotoks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/media/newsreleases/2007/200784_e.htm|title=Unique Community a Model for a Greener, Healthier Canada|author=Natural Resources Canada|author-link=Natural Resources Canada|access-date=2008-02-09 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071106023111/http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/media/newsreleases/2007/200784_e.htm <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = 2007-11-06}}</ref>


=== Flooding ===
=== Flooding ===
Okotoks has experienced three major flooding events, in 1995, 2005 and 2013.<ref name=1995flood>{{cite web | url= http://www.okotoks.ca/default.aspx?cid=343&lang=1 |title= Okotoks Life and Times |access-date= February 10, 2012}}</ref><ref name=2005flood>{{cite web | url= http://www.okotoks.ca/flood2005.html | title=2005 Flood |publisher= Town of Okotoks |access-date= January 27, 2007 | url-status=dead | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060216072839/http://okotoks.ca/flood2005.html | archive-date= February 16, 2006}}</ref><ref name=2013flood>{{cite web | url= http://www.okotoks.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/publications/Flood%20Projects%20Update.pdf |title=Town of Okotoks Floods Remediation and Mitigation Updates |publisher= Town of Okotoks |date= June 5, 2014 | access-date= August 13, 2016}}</ref> The 2005 event, which affected much of southern Alberta, flooded virtually all lands adjacent to the [[Sheep River (Alberta)|Sheep River]], including the central business district, were at least briefly flooded, with the most serious damage being inflicted to riverside pathways, parks and campgrounds.<ref name=2005flood/> Okotoks was also affected by the [[2013 Alberta floods]].<ref name=2013flood/>
Okotoks has experienced three major flooding events, in 1995, 2005 and 2013.<ref name=1995flood>{{cite web | url= http://www.okotoks.ca/default.aspx?cid=343&lang=1 |title= Okotoks Life and Times |access-date= 10 February 2012}}</ref><ref name=2005flood>{{cite web | url= http://www.okotoks.ca/flood2005.html | title=2005 Flood |publisher= Town of Okotoks |access-date= 27 January 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060216072839/http://okotoks.ca/flood2005.html | archive-date= 16 February 2006}}</ref><ref name=2013flood>{{cite web | url= http://www.okotoks.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/publications/Flood%20Projects%20Update.pdf |title=Town of Okotoks Floods Remediation and Mitigation Updates |publisher= Town of Okotoks |date= 5 June 2014 | access-date= 13 August 2016}}</ref> The 2005 event, which affected much of southern Alberta, flooded virtually all lands adjacent to the [[Sheep River (Alberta)|Sheep River]], including the central business district, were at least briefly flooded, with the most serious damage being inflicted to riverside pathways, parks and campgrounds.<ref name=2005flood/> Okotoks was also affected by the [[2013 Alberta floods]].<ref name=2013flood/>


=== Heritage conservation ===
=== Heritage conservation ===
Numerous old buildings have been restored, and one house was even resituated<ref>Alberta Archives. [http://www.archivesalberta.org/walls/okotoks.htm Okotoks]</ref> blocks away to avoid destruction by the widening of the highway through the townsite.
Numerous old buildings have been restored, and one house was even resited<ref>Alberta Archives. [http://www.archivesalberta.org/walls/okotoks.htm Okotoks]</ref> blocks away to avoid destruction by the widening of the highway through the townsite.


== Geography ==
== Geography ==


=== Land annexation ===
=== Land annexation ===
Effective July 1, 2017 the Government of Alberta approved the annexation of approximately 1,950 hectares (4,900 acres) of land. Okotoks and the [[Municipal District of Foothills No. 31|Municipal District of Foothills]] reached an agreement more than three years after the town first issued its notice of intent to seek more land to accommodate its long-term growth plans. Okotoks will gain a 60-year land supply that will enable the Town to develop housing and other services over the next several decades.<ref>[https://www.okotoks.ca/town-services/planning-development/planning/annexation Okotoks Annexation] Retrieved May 13, 2018</ref>
Effective 1 July 2017, the Government of Alberta approved the annexation of approximately {{cvt|1,950|ha}} of land. Okotoks and the [[Municipal District of Foothills No. 31|Municipal District of Foothills]] reached an agreement more than three years after the town first issued its notice of intent to seek more land to accommodate its long-term growth plans. Okotoks will gain a 60-year land supply that will enable the Town to develop housing and other services over the next several decades.<ref>[https://www.okotoks.ca/town-services/planning-development/planning/annexation Okotoks Annexation] Retrieved 13 May 2018</ref>


=== Water conservation ===
=== Water conservation ===
Although the [[Sheep River (Alberta)|Sheep River]] runs through Okotoks year round, [[Artesian aquifer|artesian]] wells near the river supply the town with its water. In September 1998, Okotoks became one of the first communities in Canada to recognize its [[natural environment|environmental]] limits to growth were restricted by the carrying capacity of the local [[drainage basin|watershed]]. In concern for the supply of water, the town announced a unique and controversial suggestion of capping its population at 25,000 residents.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.okotoks.ca/sustainable/overview.asp|title=Sustainable Okotoks|accessdate=6 April 2023}}</ref> In an interview on ''[[The Current (radio program)|The Current]]'', Mayor Bill McAlpine stated that this objective may be politically difficult due to the surrounding region.<ref>Mayor Bill McAlpine interviewed by [[Anna Maria Tremonti]] on the [[CBC Radio One]] radio show ''[[The Current (radio program)|The Current]]'', January 9, 2007</ref>
Although the [[Sheep River (Alberta)|Sheep River]] runs through Okotoks year round, [[Artesian aquifer|artesian]] wells near the river supply the town with its water. In September 1998, Okotoks became one of the first communities in Canada to recognize its [[natural environment|environmental]] limits to growth were restricted by the carrying capacity of the local [[drainage basin|watershed]]. In concern for the supply of water, the town announced a unique and controversial suggestion of capping its population at 25,000 residents.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.okotoks.ca/sustainable/overview.asp|title=Sustainable Okotoks|access-date=6 April 2023}}</ref> In an interview on ''[[The Current (radio program)|The Current]]'', Mayor Bill McAlpine stated that this objective may be politically difficult due to the surrounding region.<ref>Mayor Bill McAlpine interviewed by [[Anna Maria Tremonti]] on the [[CBC Radio One]] radio show ''[[The Current (radio program)|The Current]]'', 9 January 2007</ref>


=== Climate ===
=== Climate ===

<div style=width:79%>
Okotoks experiences a [[humid continental climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]] ''Dfb''), with generally warm summers and long, cold winters. Rainfall is usually limited to the summer, with most of it falling between the months of May and September.{{Weather box
Okotoks experiences a [[humid continental climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]] ''Dfb''), with generally warm summers and long, cold winters. Rainfall is usually limited to the summer, with most of it falling between the months of May and September.
{{Weather box
|location = Okotoks (1981−2010)
|location = Okotoks (1981−2010)
|metric first = Y
|metric first = Y
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| title = Okotoks
| title = Okotoks
| work = Canadian Climate Normals 1981–2010
| work = Canadian Climate Normals 1981–2010
| date=25 September 2013 | access-date = March 27, 2016}}</ref>
| date=25 September 2013 | access-date = 27 March 2016}}</ref>
|date=March 2016}}
|date=March 2016}}

</div>


=== Neighbourhoods ===
=== Neighbourhoods ===
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[[File:Okotoks Mainstreet.JPG|thumb|Downtown Okotoks]]
[[File:Okotoks Mainstreet.JPG|thumb|Downtown Okotoks]]


Neighbourhoods of Okotoks are:<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.okotoks.ca/data/1/rec_imgs/1020_map.jpg|title= Christmas Eve Parade route| author=Town of Okotoks/Western Wheel Newspaper (2010-12-17) |access-date=2012-02-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.okotoks.ca/data/1/rec_docs/1923_AddressWeb_Nov2011.pdf|title= Detailed Okotoks Address Map| author=Town Of Okotoks Mapping Services (11-2011 Edition) |access-date=2012-02-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://greenhavenokotoks.com/|title= Green Haven Estates| author=Green Haven Development Corp. |access-date=2018-06-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://darcyokotoks.com/|title= D'Arcy| author=Anthem United |access-date=2021-09-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://wedderburnokotoks.com/|title= Wedderburn| author=Anthem United |access-date=2021-09-09}}</ref>
Neighbourhoods of Okotoks are:<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.okotoks.ca/data/1/rec_imgs/1020_map.jpg|title= Christmas Eve Parade route| publisher=Town of Okotoks/Western Wheel Newspaper (2010-12-17) |access-date=2012-02-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.okotoks.ca/data/1/rec_docs/1923_AddressWeb_Nov2011.pdf|title= Detailed Okotoks Address Map| publisher=Town Of Okotoks Mapping Services (11-2011 Edition) |access-date=2012-02-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=http://greenhavenokotoks.com/|title= Green Haven Estates| author=Green Haven Development Corp. |access-date=2018-06-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://darcyokotoks.com/|title= D'Arcy| author=Anthem United |access-date=2021-09-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://wedderburnokotoks.com/|title= Wedderburn| author=Anthem United |access-date=2021-09-09}}</ref>
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
* Air Ranch
* Air Ranch
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== Demographics ==
== Demographics ==
{{Historical populations
{{Historical populations
| title = Federal census<br/>population history
| title = Federal census<br/>population history
| type = Canada
| type = Canada
| align = right
| align = right
| width =
| width =
| state =
| state =
| shading =
| shading =
| percentages =
| percentages =
| footnote = ''Source: [[Statistics Canada]]''<br><ref name=1906census>{{cite book | title=Census of the Northwest Provinces, 1906 | volume=Sessional Paper No. 17a | year=1907 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=100 | chapter=Table IX: Population of cities, towns and incorporated villages in 1906 and 1901 as classed in 1906}}</ref><ref name=1911census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1911 | volume=I | year=1912 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=2–39 | chapter=Table I: Area and Population of Canada by Provinces, Districts and Subdistricts in 1911 and Population in 1901}}</ref><ref name=1916census>{{cite book | title=Census of Prairie Provinces, 1916 | volume=Population and Agriculture | year=1918 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=77–140 | chapter=Table I: Population of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta by Districts, Townships, Cities, Towns, and Incorporated Villages in 1916, 1911, 1906, and 1901}}</ref><ref name=1921census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1921 | year=1922 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=169–215 | chapter=Table 8: Population by districts and sub-districts according to the Redistribution Act of 1914 and the amending act of 1915, compared for the census years 1921, 1911 and 1901}}</ref><ref name=1926census>{{cite book | title=Census of Prairie Provinces, 1926 | volume=Census of Alberta, 1926 | year=1927 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=565–567 | chapter=Table 7: Population of cities, towns and villages for the province of Alberta in census years 1901-26, as classed in 1926}}</ref><ref name=1931census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1931 | year=1932 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=98–102 | chapter=Table 12: Population of Canada by provinces, counties or census divisions and subdivisions, 1871-1931}}</ref><ref name=1936census>{{cite book | title=Census of the Prairie Provinces, 1936 | volume=I: Population and Agriculture | year=1938 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | pages=833–836 | chapter=Table 4: Population in incorporated cities, towns and villages, 1901-1936}}</ref><ref name=1941census>{{cite book | title=Eighth Census of Canada, 1941 | volume=II: Population by Local Subdivisions | year=1944 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | pages=134–141 | chapter=Table 10: Population by census subdivisions, 1871–1941}}</ref><ref name=1946census>{{cite book | title=Census of the Prairie Provinces, 1946 | volume=I: Population | year=1949 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | pages=401–414 | chapter=Table 6: Population by census subdivisions, 1926-1946}}</ref><ref name=1951census>{{cite book | title=Ninth Census of Canada, 1951 | volume=I: Population, General Characteristics | year=1953 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.73–6.83 | chapter=Table 6: Population by census subdivisions, 1871–1951}}</ref><ref name=1956census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1956 | volume=Population, Counties and Subdivisions | year=1957 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.50–6.53 | chapter=Table 6: Population by sex, for census subdivisions, 1956 and 1951}}</ref><br>
| footnote = ''Source: [[Statistics Canada]]''<br><ref name=1906census>{{cite book | title=Census of the Northwest Provinces, 1906 | volume=Sessional Paper No. 17a | year=1907 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=100 | chapter=Table IX: Population of cities, towns and incorporated villages in 1906 and 1901 as classed in 1906}}</ref><ref name=1911census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1911 | volume=I | year=1912 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=2–39 | chapter=Table I: Area and Population of Canada by Provinces, Districts and Subdistricts in 1911 and Population in 1901}}</ref><ref name=1916census>{{cite book | title=Census of Prairie Provinces, 1916 | volume=Population and Agriculture | year=1918 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=77–140 | chapter=Table I: Population of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta by Districts, Townships, Cities, Towns, and Incorporated Villages in 1916, 1911, 1906, and 1901}}</ref><ref name=1921census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1921 | year=1922 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=169–215 | chapter=Table 8: Population by districts and sub-districts according to the Redistribution Act of 1914 and the amending act of 1915, compared for the census years 1921, 1911 and 1901}}</ref><ref name=1926census>{{cite book | title=Census of Prairie Provinces, 1926 | volume=Census of Alberta, 1926 | year=1927 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=565–567 | chapter=Table 7: Population of cities, towns and villages for the province of Alberta in census years 1901-26, as classed in 1926}}</ref><ref name=1931census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1931 | year=1932 | publisher=[[Government of Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=98–102 | chapter=Table 12: Population of Canada by provinces, counties or census divisions and subdivisions, 1871-1931}}</ref><ref name=1936census>{{cite book | title=Census of the Prairie Provinces, 1936 | volume=I: Population and Agriculture | year=1938 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | pages=833–836 | chapter=Table 4: Population in incorporated cities, towns and villages, 1901-1936}}</ref><ref name=1941census>{{cite book | title=Eighth Census of Canada, 1941 | volume=II: Population by Local Subdivisions | year=1944 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | pages=134–141 | chapter=Table 10: Population by census subdivisions, 1871–1941}}</ref><ref name=1946census>{{cite book | title=Census of the Prairie Provinces, 1946 | volume=I: Population | year=1949 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | pages=401–414 | chapter=Table 6: Population by census subdivisions, 1926-1946}}</ref><ref name=1951census>{{cite book | title=Ninth Census of Canada, 1951 | volume=I: Population, General Characteristics | year=1953 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.73–6.83 | chapter=Table 6: Population by census subdivisions, 1871–1951}}</ref><ref name=1956census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1956 | volume=Population, Counties and Subdivisions | year=1957 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.50–6.53 | chapter=Table 6: Population by sex, for census subdivisions, 1956 and 1951}}</ref><br>
<ref name=2011censusABmunis/><ref name=1961census>{{cite book | title=1961 Census of Canada | series=Series 1.1: Historical, 1901–1961 | volume=I: Population | year=1963 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.77-6.83 | chapter=Table 6: Population by census subdivisions, 1901–1961}}</ref><ref name=1966census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1966 | volume=Population, Specified Age Groups and Sex for Counties and Census Subdivisions, 1966 | year=1968 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.50–6.53 | chapter=Population by specified age groups and sex, for census subdivisions, 1966}}</ref><ref name=1971census>{{cite book | title=1971 Census of Canada | volume=I: Population, Census Subdivisions (Historical) | year=1973 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=2.102-2.111 | chapter=Table 2: Population of Census Subdivisions, 1921–1971}}</ref><ref name=1976census>{{cite book | title=1976 Census of Canada | series=Census Divisions and Subdivisions, Western Provinces and the Territories | volume=I: Population, Geographic Distributions | year=1977 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=3.40–3.43| chapter=Table 3: Population for census divisions and subdivisions, 1971 and 1976}}</ref><ref name=1981census>{{cite book | title=1981 Census of Canada | volume=II: Provincial series, Population, Geographic distributions (Alberta) | year=1982 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=4.1–4.10| chapter=Table 4: Population and Total Occupied Dwellings, for Census Divisions and Subdivisions, 1976 and 1981 | isbn=0-660-51095-2}}</ref><ref name=1986census>{{cite book | title=Census Canada 1986 | volume=Population and Dwelling Counts – Provinces and Territories (Alberta) | year=1987 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=2.1–2.10 | chapter=Table 2: Census Divisions and Subdivisions – Population and Occupied Private Dwellings, 1981 and 1986 | isbn=0-660-53463-0}}</ref><ref name=1991census>{{cite book | title=91 Census | volume=Population and Dwelling Counts – Census Divisions and Census Subdivisions | year=1992 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=100–108 | chapter=Table 2: Population and Dwelling Counts, for Census Divisions and Census Subdivisions, 1986 and 1991 – 100% Data | isbn=0-660-57115-3}}</ref><ref name=1996census>{{cite book | title=96 Census | volume=A National Overview – Population and Dwelling Counts | year=1997 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=136–146 | chapter=Table 10: Population and Dwelling Counts, for Census Divisions, Census Subdivisions (Municipalities) and Designated Places, 1991 and 1996 Censuses – 100% Data | isbn=0-660-59283-5}}</ref><ref name=2001census>{{cite web | title=Population and Dwelling Counts, for Canada, Provinces and Territories, and Census Divisions, 2001 and 1996 Censuses - 100% Data (Alberta) | url=http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/english/census01/products/standard/popdwell/Table-CSD-D.cfm?PR=48 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | access-date=2012-04-02}}</ref><ref name=2006census>{{cite web | title=Population and dwelling counts, for Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), 2006 and 2001 censuses - 100% data (Alberta) | url=http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2006/dp-pd/hlt/97-550/Index.cfm?TPL=P1C&Page=RETR&LANG=Eng&T=302&SR=1&S=1&O=A&RPP=9999&PR=48&CMA=0 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=2010-01-06 | access-date=2012-04-02}}</ref><ref name=2016censusABmunis/>
<ref name=2011censusABmunis/><ref name=1961census>{{cite book | title=1961 Census of Canada | series=Series 1.1: Historical, 1901–1961 | volume=I: Population | year=1963 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.77-6.83 | chapter=Table 6: Population by census subdivisions, 1901–1961}}</ref><ref name=1966census>{{cite book | title=Census of Canada, 1966 | volume=Population, Specified Age Groups and Sex for Counties and Census Subdivisions, 1966 | year=1968 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada|Dominion Bureau of Statistics]] | location=Ottawa | page=6.50–6.53 | chapter=Population by specified age groups and sex, for census subdivisions, 1966}}</ref><ref name=1971census>{{cite book | title=1971 Census of Canada | volume=I: Population, Census Subdivisions (Historical) | year=1973 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=2.102-2.111 | chapter=Table 2: Population of Census Subdivisions, 1921–1971}}</ref><ref name=1976census>{{cite book | title=1976 Census of Canada | series=Census Divisions and Subdivisions, Western Provinces and the Territories | volume=I: Population, Geographic Distributions | year=1977 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=3.40–3.43| chapter=Table 3: Population for census divisions and subdivisions, 1971 and 1976}}</ref><ref name=1981census>{{cite book | title=1981 Census of Canada | volume=II: Provincial series, Population, Geographic distributions (Alberta) | year=1982 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=4.1–4.10| chapter=Table 4: Population and Total Occupied Dwellings, for Census Divisions and Subdivisions, 1976 and 1981 | isbn=0-660-51095-2}}</ref><ref name=1986census>{{cite book | title=Census Canada 1986 | volume=Population and Dwelling Counts – Provinces and Territories (Alberta) | year=1987 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | page=2.1–2.10 | chapter=Table 2: Census Divisions and Subdivisions – Population and Occupied Private Dwellings, 1981 and 1986 | isbn=0-660-53463-0}}</ref><ref name=1991census>{{cite book | title=91 Census | volume=Population and Dwelling Counts – Census Divisions and Census Subdivisions | year=1992 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=100–108 | chapter=Table 2: Population and Dwelling Counts, for Census Divisions and Census Subdivisions, 1986 and 1991 – 100% Data | isbn=0-660-57115-3}}</ref><ref name=1996census>{{cite book | title=96 Census | volume=A National Overview – Population and Dwelling Counts | year=1997 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | location=Ottawa | pages=136–146 | chapter=Table 10: Population and Dwelling Counts, for Census Divisions, Census Subdivisions (Municipalities) and Designated Places, 1991 and 1996 Censuses – 100% Data | isbn=0-660-59283-5}}</ref><ref name=2001census>{{cite web | title=Population and Dwelling Counts, for Canada, Provinces and Territories, and Census Divisions, 2001 and 1996 Censuses - 100% Data (Alberta) | url=http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/english/census01/products/standard/popdwell/Table-CSD-D.cfm?PR=48 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | access-date=2012-04-02}}</ref><ref name=2006census>{{cite web | title=Population and dwelling counts, for Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), 2006 and 2001 censuses - 100% data (Alberta) | url=http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2006/dp-pd/hlt/97-550/Index.cfm?TPL=P1C&Page=RETR&LANG=Eng&T=302&SR=1&S=1&O=A&RPP=9999&PR=48&CMA=0 | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=2010-01-06 | access-date=2012-04-02}}</ref><ref name=2016censusABmunis/>
|1901|245
|1901|245
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}}
}}


In the [[2021 Canadian census|2021 Census of Population]] conducted by [[Statistics Canada]], the Town of Okotoks had a population of 30,405 living in 10,476 of its 10,750 total private dwellings, a change of {{percentage|{{#expr:30405-29016}}|29016|1}} from its 2016 population of 29,016. With a land area of {{cvt|38.55|km2}}, it had a population density of {{Pop density|30405|38.55|km2|sqmi|prec=1}} in 2021.<ref name=2021census>{{cite web | url=https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810000202&geocode=A000248 | title=Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities) | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=February 9, 2022 | accessdate=February 9, 2022}}</ref>
In the [[2021 Canadian census]] conducted by [[Statistics Canada]], the Town of Okotoks had a population of 30,405 living in 10,476 of its 10,750 total private dwellings, a change of {{percentage|{{#expr:30405-29016}}|29016|1}} from its 2016 population of 29,016. With a land area of {{cvt|38.55|km2}}, it had a population density of {{Pop density|30405|38.55|km2|sqmi|prec=1}} in 2021.<ref name=2021census>{{cite web | url=https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=9810000202&geocode=A000248 | title=Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities) | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=9 February 2022 | access-date=9 February 2022}}</ref>


In the [[Canada 2016 Census|2016 Census of Population]] conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Okotoks recorded a population of 28,881 living in 9,667 of its 9,840 total private dwellings, a {{percentage|{{#expr:28881-24511}}|24511|1}} change from its 2011 population of 24,511. With a land area of {{convert|19.63|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}, it had a population density of {{Pop density|28881|19.63|km2|sqmi|prec=1}} in 2016.<ref name=2016censusABmunis>{{cite web | url=http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2016/dp-pd/hlt-fst/pd-pl/Table.cfm?Lang=Eng&T=302&SR=1&S=86&O=A&RPP=9999&PR=48 | title=Population and dwelling counts, for Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), 2016 and 2011 censuses – 100% data (Alberta) | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=February 8, 2017 | access-date=February 8, 2017}}</ref>
In the [[Canada 2016 Census]] conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Okotoks recorded a population of 28,881 living in 9,667 of its 9,840 total private dwellings, a {{percentage|{{#expr:28881-24511}}|24511|1}} change from its 2011 population of 24,511. With a land area of {{cvt|19.63|km2}}, it had a population density of {{Pop density|28881|19.63|km2|sqmi|prec=1}} in 2016.<ref name=2016censusABmunis>{{cite web | url=http://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2016/dp-pd/hlt-fst/pd-pl/Table.cfm?Lang=Eng&T=302&SR=1&S=86&O=A&RPP=9999&PR=48 | title=Population and dwelling counts, for Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), 2016 and 2011 censuses – 100% data (Alberta) | publisher=[[Statistics Canada]] | date=8 February 2017 | access-date=8 February 2017}}</ref>


The population of the Town of Okotoks according to its [[Alberta municipal censuses, 2015|2015 municipal census]] is 28,016, a {{percentage|{{#expr:28016-27331}}|27331|1}} change from its [[Alberta municipal censuses, 2014|2014 municipal census]] population of 27,331.<ref name=2015census>{{cite web | url=http://www.okotoks.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/meetings/agendas/13%20July%2013%2C%202015%20Agenda%20Package.pdf | title=Regular Council Meeting Agenda: Item 4.5 &ndash; 2015 Municipal Census | page=69 | publisher=Town of Okotoks | date=July 13, 2015 | access-date=July 11, 2015}}</ref> At its current population, Okotoks is the largest town in the province<ref name=2011pop>{{cite web | url=http://www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/documents/msb/2011_pop.pdf | title=2011 Municipal Affairs Population List | publisher=Alberta Municipal Affairs | date=2010-10-05 | access-date=2011-12-12}}</ref> and is eligible for city status. According to Alberta's ''Municipal Government Act'', a town is eligible for city status when it reaches 10,000 residents.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.qp.alberta.ca/574.cfm?page=m26.cfm&leg_type=Acts&isbncln=9780779745739 | title=Municipal Government Act | publisher=Alberta Queen's Printer | access-date=2012-09-05}}</ref>
The population of the Town of Okotoks according to its [[Alberta municipal censuses, 2015|2015 municipal census]] is 28,016, a {{percentage|{{#expr:28016-27331}}|27331|1}} change from its [[Alberta municipal censuses, 2014|2014 municipal census]] population of 27,331.<ref name=2015census>{{cite web | url=http://www.okotoks.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/meetings/agendas/13%20July%2013%2C%202015%20Agenda%20Package.pdf | title=Regular Council Meeting Agenda: Item 4.5 &ndash; 2015 Municipal Census | page=69 | publisher=Town of Okotoks | date=13 July 2015 | access-date=11 July 2015}}</ref> At its current population, Okotoks is the largest town in the province<ref name=2011pop>{{cite web | url=http://www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/documents/msb/2011_pop.pdf | title=2011 Municipal Affairs Population List | publisher=Alberta Municipal Affairs | date=2010-10-05 | access-date=2011-12-12}}</ref> and is eligible for city status. According to Alberta's ''Municipal Government Act'', a town is eligible for city status when it reaches 10,000 residents.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.qp.alberta.ca/574.cfm?page=m26.cfm&leg_type=Acts&isbncln=9780779745739 | title=Municipal Government Act | publisher=Alberta Queen's Printer | access-date=2012-09-05}}</ref>


=== Ethnicity ===
=== Ethnicity ===
Almost 3% of Okotoks residents identified themselves as aboriginal at the time of the 2006 census.<ref>{{cite web | title = Okotoks | work = Aboriginal Identity (8), Sex (3) and Age Groups (12) for the Population of Canada, Provinces, Territories, Census Metropolitan Areas and Census Agglomerations, 2006 Census - 20% Sample Data | publisher = Statistics Canada | date = 2008-01-15 | url = http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census06/data/topics/RetrieveProductTable.cfm?ALEVEL=3&APATH=3&CATNO=&DETAIL=0&DIM=&DS=99&FL=0&FREE=0&GAL=0&GC=99&GK=NA&GRP=1&IPS=&METH=0&ORDER=1&PID=89122&PTYPE=88971&RL=0&S=1&ShowAll=No&StartRow=1&SUB=0&Temporal=2006&Theme=73&VID=0&VNAMEE=&VNAMEF=&GID=838049 | access-date = 2008-02-06}}</ref>
Almost 3% of Okotoks residents identified themselves as aboriginal at the time of the 2006 census.<ref>{{cite web | title = Okotoks | work = Aboriginal Identity (8), Sex (3) and Age Groups (12) for the Population of Canada, Provinces, Territories, Census Metropolitan Areas and Census Agglomerations, 2006 Census - 20% Sample Data | publisher = Statistics Canada | date = 2008-01-15 | url = http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census06/data/topics/RetrieveProductTable.cfm?ALEVEL=3&APATH=3&CATNO=&DETAIL=0&DIM=&DS=99&FL=0&FREE=0&GAL=0&GC=99&GK=NA&GRP=1&IPS=&METH=0&ORDER=1&PID=89122&PTYPE=88971&RL=0&S=1&ShowAll=No&StartRow=1&SUB=0&Temporal=2006&Theme=73&VID=0&VNAMEE=&VNAMEF=&GID=838049 | access-date = 2008-02-06}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable collapsible sortable"
{| class="wikitable collapsible sortable"
|+ [[Panethnicity|Panethnic]] groups in the Town of Okotoks (2001−2021)
|+ [[Panethnicity|Panethnic]] groups in the Town of Okotoks (2001−2021)
Line 514: Line 520:


=== Language ===
=== Language ===
According to the 2006 census, about 93% of residents identified [[English language|English]] as their [[first language]] while 1.4% identified [[French language|French]] and 1.0% identified [[German language|German]] as their first language learned. The next most common languages were [[Spanish language|Spanish]], [[Tagalog language|Tagalog]], [[Chinese language|Chinese]], [[Korean language|Korean]], and [[Slovak language|Slovak]].<ref>{{cite web | title = Okotoks | work = Detailed Mother Tongue (186), Knowledge of Official Languages (5), Age Groups (17A) and Sex (3) for the Population of Canada, Provinces, Territories, Census Metropolitan Areas and Census Agglomerations, 2001 and 2006 Censuses - 20% Sample Data | publisher = Statistics Canada | date = 2007-11-20 | url = http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census06/data/topics/RetrieveProductTable.cfm?ALEVEL=3&APATH=3&CATNO=&DETAIL=0&DIM=&DS=99&FL=0&FREE=0&GAL=0&GC=99&GK=NA&GRP=1&IPS=&METH=0&ORDER=1&PID=89201&PTYPE=88971&RL=0&S=1&ShowAll=No&StartRow=1&SUB=701&Temporal=2006&Theme=70&VID=0&VNAMEE=&VNAMEF=&GID=838049 | access-date = 2008-02-06}}</ref>
According to the 2006 census, about 93% of residents identified English as their [[first language]] while 1.4% identified French and 1.0% identified German as their first language learned. The next most common languages were Spanish, [[Tagalog language|Tagalog]], Chinese, [[Korean language|Korean]], and [[Slovak language|Slovak]].<ref>{{cite web | title = Okotoks | work = Detailed Mother Tongue (186), Knowledge of Official Languages (5), Age Groups (17A) and Sex (3) for the Population of Canada, Provinces, Territories, Census Metropolitan Areas and Census Agglomerations, 2001 and 2006 Censuses - 20% Sample Data | publisher = Statistics Canada | date = 2007-11-20 | url = http://www12.statcan.ca/english/census06/data/topics/RetrieveProductTable.cfm?ALEVEL=3&APATH=3&CATNO=&DETAIL=0&DIM=&DS=99&FL=0&FREE=0&GAL=0&GC=99&GK=NA&GRP=1&IPS=&METH=0&ORDER=1&PID=89201&PTYPE=88971&RL=0&S=1&ShowAll=No&StartRow=1&SUB=701&Temporal=2006&Theme=70&VID=0&VNAMEE=&VNAMEF=&GID=838049 | access-date = 2008-02-06}}</ref>
[[File:Okotoks2007.jpg|thumb|center|1000px|A view of Okotoks in 2007; overlooking downtown facing the south]]
[[File:Okotoks2007.jpg|thumb|center|1000px|A view of Okotoks in 2007; overlooking downtown facing the south]]


== Economy ==
== Economy ==
[[File:Okotoksplaza.jpg|thumb|Olde Towne Plaza in downtown Okotoks]]
[[File:Okotoksplaza.jpg|thumb|Olde Towne Plaza in downtown Okotoks]]
The sawmill that was established by [[John Lineham]] along the Sheep River in 1891 operated for 25 years and was a major part of the local economy. At one time it employed 135 people, producing an average of 30,000 feet (9,000 m) of lumber per day. The growth of the Canadian Pacific Railway created a demand for railway ties and the mill helped meet that demand. Logs were brought down from the west via the Sheep River. The mill has long since disappeared but one building (one of the oldest remaining in the township) still stands. It housed an award-winning (butter) [[dairy]] from the 1920s to the 1940s. It currently houses a law office and restaurant. In May 2015 the Old Creamery was severely damaged following a suspected arson attack. On 15 June 2015 the Town Council voted to demolish the building.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107173702/http://www.westernwheel.com/article/20150618/WHE0801/306189963/0/whe |publisher=Okotoks Western Wheel |date=18 June 2015 |access-date=2 August 2015}}</ref>
The sawmill that was established by [[John Lineham]] along the Sheep River in 1891 operated for 25 years and was a major part of the local economy. At one time it employed 135 people, producing an average of {{cvt|30,000|ft|order=flip}} of lumber per day. The growth of the Canadian Pacific Railway created a demand for railway ties and the mill helped meet that demand. Logs were brought down from the west via the Sheep River. The mill has long since disappeared but one building (one of the oldest remaining in the township) still stands. It housed an award-winning (butter) [[dairy]] from the 1920s to the 1940s. It currently houses a law office and restaurant. In May 2015, the Old Creamery was severely damaged following a suspected arson attack. On 15 June 2015, the Town Council voted to demolish the building.<ref>{{cite web |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107173702/http://www.westernwheel.com/article/20150618/WHE0801/306189963/0/whe |url=http://www.westernwheel.com/article/20150618/WHE0801/306189963/0/whe |archive-date=7 January 2016 |title=Century-old barn to be demolished |publisher=Okotoks Western Wheel |date=18 June 2015 |access-date=2 August 2015}}</ref>


In 1900, just west of Okotoks, four brick-making plants were opened. Many of the first brick buildings in Okotoks (of which a number still exist) were constructed using locally-made brick. The industry reached its peak in 1912, when twelve million bricks were manufactured. The outbreak of [[World War I]] caused the shutdown of “Sandstone” as it was known.
In 1900, just west of Okotoks, four brick-making plants were opened. Many of the first brick buildings in Okotoks (of which a number still exist) were constructed using locally-made brick. The industry reached its peak in 1912, when twelve million bricks were manufactured. The outbreak of [[World War I]] caused the shutdown of “Sandstone” as it was known.


By 1906 the population had hit 1900, a figure that would not be reached again until 1977.
By 1906, the population had hit 1900, a figure that would not be reached again until 1977.


Oil was discovered west of Okotoks on October 7, 1913.<ref>{{cite news|title=This Week in Business History|url=http://www.pressreader.com/canada/toronto-star/20161001/281887297802604|access-date=1 October 2016|work=[[The Toronto Star]]|date=1 October 2016}}</ref> Okotoks became the supply centre. In its heyday, from 1913 to the 1960s, Okotoks was busy with horses, wagons, and transports hauling all types of equipment to the oil fields, and [[crude oil]] back through town to [[refineries]] in Calgary.
Oil was discovered west of Okotoks on 7 October 1913.<ref>{{cite news|title=This Week in Business History|url=http://www.pressreader.com/canada/toronto-star/20161001/281887297802604 |access-date=1 October 2016|work=[[The Toronto Star]]|date=1 October 2016}}</ref> Okotoks became the supply centre. In its heyday, from 1913 to the 1960s, Okotoks was busy with horses, wagons, and transports hauling all types of equipment to the oil fields, and [[crude oil]] back through town to [[refineries]] in Calgary.


The Texas Gulf [[sulphur]] plant (known as CanOxy) opened in 1959, employing 45 people. It was not unusual to see the bright yellow, three-story high, block-long, block-wide pile of sulphur waiting to be melted or ground up and poured into railway cars.
The Texas Gulf [[sulphur]] plant (known as CanOxy) opened in 1959, employing 45 people. It was not unusual to see the bright yellow, three-story high, block-long, block-wide pile of sulphur waiting to be melted or ground up and poured into railway cars.


Since 1974, Okotoks has been hosting a collector car auction in late May. It is the longest running collector car auction in Canada.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-05-17|title=5 cool vehicles to watch at Canada's oldest collector car auction|url=https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/canadas-okotoks-collector-car-auction/|access-date=2020-07-08|website=Hagerty Media|language=en-US}}</ref>
Since 1974, Okotoks has been hosting a collector car auction in late May. It is the longest running collector car auction in Canada.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-05-17|title=5 cool vehicles to watch at Canada's oldest collector car auction|url=https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/canadas-okotoks-collector-car-auction/|access-date=2020-07-08|website=Hagerty Media}}</ref>


Okotoks was one of the few communities its size with its own airport. A number of small air shows were held there over the years. It was the home of an aircraft charter company, flight school, and a [[helicopter]] flying school. The site has now evolved into an airpark community called the [[Calgary/Okotoks Air Park]], where the property owners, if they wish, can build homes with attached [[hangar]]s for their private planes. There is also a small private aerodrome, [[Calgary/Okotoks (Rowland Field) Aerodrome]]. Otherwise, like other communities in the vicinity of Calgary, it is served by [[Calgary International Airport]].
Okotoks was one of the few communities its size with its own airport. A number of small air shows were held there over the years. It was the home of an aircraft charter company, flight school, and a [[helicopter]] flying school. The site has now evolved into an airpark community called the [[Calgary/Okotoks Air Park]], where the property owners, if they wish, can build homes with attached [[hangar]]s for their private planes. There is also a small private aerodrome, [[Calgary/Okotoks (Rowland Field) Aerodrome]]. Otherwise, like other communities in the vicinity of Calgary, it is served by [[Calgary International Airport]].


[[File:Okotoks2013ii.JPG|thumb|center|1000px|Looking SW from the valley's Northern slope]]
[[File:Okotoks2013ii.JPG|thumb|center|1000px|Looking southwest from the valley's Northern slope]]


==Transit==
==Transit==


Okotoks Transit operates an on-demand bus service within the town boundaries.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.okotokstransit.ca/map|title=Map &#124; Okotoks Transit|website=www.okotokstransit.ca|accessdate=6 April 2023}}</ref> The system began in 2019 with assessible vans instead of traditional buses.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://okotoksonline.com/articles/new-transit-bus-in-okotoks|title=New Transit Bus in Okotoks|website=OkotoksOnline|accessdate=6 April 2023}}</ref>
Okotoks Transit operates an on-demand bus service within the town boundaries.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.okotokstransit.ca/map|title=Map &#124; Okotoks Transit|website=www.okotokstransit.ca |access-date=6 April 2023}}</ref> The system began in 2019 with accessible vans instead of traditional buses.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://okotoksonline.com/articles/new-transit-bus-in-okotoks|title=New Transit Bus in Okotoks|website=OkotoksOnline|access-date=6 April 2023}}</ref>

==Media==
===Print===
*''Western Wheel,'' with a local weekly newspaper, [[Great West Newspapers]]

===Radio===
*100.9 [[FM broadcasting|FM]] — [[CKUV-FM]] (''The Eagle 100.9''), [[Golden West Broadcasting]]


== See also ==
== See also ==
Line 560: Line 573:


{{Geographic location
{{Geographic location
| Centre = Okotoks
| Centre = Okotoks
| North = [[Calgary, Alberta|Calgary]]
| North = [[Calgary, Alberta|Calgary]]
| Northeast = [[Strathmore, Alberta|Strathmore]]
| Northeast = [[Strathmore, Alberta|Strathmore]]
| East = [[Arrowwood, Alberta|Arrowwood]]
| East = [[Arrowwood, Alberta|Arrowwood]]
| Southeast = [[Vulcan, Alberta|Vulcan]]
| Southeast = [[Vulcan, Alberta|Vulcan]]
| South = [[High River]]
| South = [[High River]]
| Southwest = [[Longview, Alberta|Longview]]
| Southwest = [[Longview, Alberta|Longview]]
| West = [[Diamond Valley, Alberta|Diamond Valley]]
| West = [[Diamond Valley, Alberta|Diamond Valley]]
| Northwest = [[Bragg Creek, Alberta|Bragg Creek]]
| Northwest = [[Bragg Creek, Alberta|Bragg Creek]]
}}
}}

Latest revision as of 06:37, 26 June 2024

Okotoks
Town
Town of Okotoks
A view of Okotoks; overlooking downtown and facing south.
A view of Okotoks; overlooking downtown and facing south.
Official logo of Okotoks
Motto(s): 
Historic Past, Sustainable Future
Okotoks is located in Foothills County
Okotoks
Okotoks
Okotoks is located in Alberta
Okotoks
Okotoks
Okotoks is located in Canada
Okotoks
Okotoks
Coordinates: 50°43′34″N 113°58′39″W / 50.72611°N 113.97750°W / 50.72611; -113.97750[1]
CountryCanada
ProvinceAlberta
RegionCalgary Region
Census division6
Municipal districtFoothills County
Incorporated[2] 
 • Village25 October 1899
 • Town1 June 1904
Government
 • MayorTanya Thorn
 • Governing body
Okotoks Town Council
  • Cheryl Actemichuk
  • Oliver Hallmark
  • Ken Heemeryck
  • Gord Lang
  • Brent Robinson
  • Rachel Swendseid
 • CAOElaine Vincent
 • MPJohn Barlow
 • MLARJ Sigurdson
Area
 (2021)[4]
 • Land38.55 km2 (14.88 sq mi)
Elevation1,051 m (3,448 ft)
Population
 (2021)[4][8][9]
 • Total30,405
 • Density788.7/km2 (2,043/sq mi)
 • Municipal census (2015)
28,016[6]
 • Estimate (2020)
31,708[7]
Time zoneUTC−07:00 (MST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC−06:00 (MDT)
Forward sortation area
Area code(s)403, 587, 825, 368
HighwaysHighway 2A
Highway 7
Highway 549
WaterwaySheep River
WebsiteOfficial website

Okotoks (/ˈkətks/ OH-kə-tohks, originally /ˈɒkətɒks/ OK-ə-toks) is a town in the Calgary Region of Alberta, Canada. It is on the Sheep River, approximately 38 km (24 mi) south of Downtown Calgary. Okotoks has emerged as a bedroom community of Calgary.[10] According to the 2021 Federal Census, the town has a population of 30,214,[11] making it the largest town in Alberta.

History

[edit]
Big Rock glacial erratic

The town's name is derived from "ohkotok", the Blackfoot language word for "rock". The name may refer to Big Rock, the largest glacial erratic in the Foothills Erratics Train, situated about 7 km (4.3 mi) west of the town.[12]

Before European settlement, journeying First Nations, members of the Blackfoot Confederacy, used the rock as a marker to find the river crossing situated at Okotoks. The tribes were nomadic and often followed large buffalo herds for their sustenance. David Thompson explored the area as early as 1800.

This section of the Old Macleod Trail in Okotoks passed through a ravine that made it easier for wagons, stagecoaches and horse riders to get up the northern escarpment of the Sheep River valley.

In the late 1870s and early 1880s, the site of the future town was a river crossing location on the freight wagon route from Fort Macleod to Fort Calgary. Stagecoaches also used the trail. Known as the Macleod Trail or the Macleod-Calgary Trail, the route was an extension of the Fort Benton-Fort Macleod Trail, which led from Fort Benton, Montana to Fort Macleod. There were two fords on the Sheep River, and two stopping houses were established on the north side of the river for rest and shelter for the travellers. Because of these stopping houses, the area attracted settlement. Once the railway was built through the town in 1892, the old trail fell out of use.[13][14][15]

In 1879, the area saw the killing of the last buffalo. Government leasing of land for $0.01/acre ($0.025/ha) or $2.47/km2 ($6.4/sq mi) began in 1880. This created a major change in the region. The first settlers arrived in 1882.[16]

A community grew around a sawmill that was established in 1891, and it would grow in size. The last stagecoach stopped in Okotoks in 1891 when rail service between Calgary and Fort Macleod replaced horse-drawn travel.

By 1897, the community name had changed three times, first from Sheep Creek, to Dewdney after Edgar Dewdney the Lieutenant Governor of the Northwest Territories, and later being informed by post office authorities in Ottawa of an older settlement named Dewdney in Lower Mainland, British Columbia, the name Okotoks was chosen by local businessman John Lineham.[17] The rail line is still a main line south to the United States border, but the last of the passenger service (Dayliner unit) ended in 1971.[18]

In 2007, the energy efficient Drake Landing Solar Community was established in Okotoks.[19]

Flooding

[edit]

Okotoks has experienced three major flooding events, in 1995, 2005 and 2013.[20][21][22] The 2005 event, which affected much of southern Alberta, flooded virtually all lands adjacent to the Sheep River, including the central business district, were at least briefly flooded, with the most serious damage being inflicted to riverside pathways, parks and campgrounds.[21] Okotoks was also affected by the 2013 Alberta floods.[22]

Heritage conservation

[edit]

Numerous old buildings have been restored, and one house was even resited[23] blocks away to avoid destruction by the widening of the highway through the townsite.

Geography

[edit]

Land annexation

[edit]

Effective 1 July 2017, the Government of Alberta approved the annexation of approximately 1,950 ha (4,800 acres) of land. Okotoks and the Municipal District of Foothills reached an agreement more than three years after the town first issued its notice of intent to seek more land to accommodate its long-term growth plans. Okotoks will gain a 60-year land supply that will enable the Town to develop housing and other services over the next several decades.[24]

Water conservation

[edit]

Although the Sheep River runs through Okotoks year round, artesian wells near the river supply the town with its water. In September 1998, Okotoks became one of the first communities in Canada to recognize its environmental limits to growth were restricted by the carrying capacity of the local watershed. In concern for the supply of water, the town announced a unique and controversial suggestion of capping its population at 25,000 residents.[25] In an interview on The Current, Mayor Bill McAlpine stated that this objective may be politically difficult due to the surrounding region.[26]

Climate

[edit]

Okotoks experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb), with generally warm summers and long, cold winters. Rainfall is usually limited to the summer, with most of it falling between the months of May and September.

Climate data for Okotoks (1981−2010)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 14.5
(58.1)
23.0
(73.4)
25.0
(77.0)
25.5
(77.9)
31.5
(88.7)
32.5
(90.5)
34.5
(94.1)
34.0
(93.2)
33.5
(92.3)
27.5
(81.5)
23.0
(73.4)
18.0
(64.4)
34.5
(94.1)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −2.3
(27.9)
1.0
(33.8)
4.9
(40.8)
11.7
(53.1)
16.8
(62.2)
20.2
(68.4)
24.3
(75.7)
23.7
(74.7)
18.9
(66.0)
11.5
(52.7)
3.4
(38.1)
−0.5
(31.1)
11.1
(52.0)
Daily mean °C (°F) −8.1
(17.4)
−5.0
(23.0)
−1.4
(29.5)
5.0
(41.0)
9.8
(49.6)
13.7
(56.7)
17.0
(62.6)
16.2
(61.2)
11.5
(52.7)
5.0
(41.0)
−2.3
(27.9)
−6.3
(20.7)
4.6
(40.3)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −13.8
(7.2)
−10.9
(12.4)
−7.7
(18.1)
−1.7
(28.9)
2.8
(37.0)
7.1
(44.8)
9.6
(49.3)
8.6
(47.5)
4.1
(39.4)
−1.6
(29.1)
−8.0
(17.6)
−12.0
(10.4)
−2.0
(28.4)
Record low °C (°F) −39.0
(−38.2)
−36.0
(−32.8)
−32.0
(−25.6)
−20.5
(−4.9)
−8.0
(17.6)
−1.5
(29.3)
2.0
(35.6)
−3.0
(26.6)
−9.0
(15.8)
−26.0
(−14.8)
−32.5
(−26.5)
−39.0
(−38.2)
−39.0
(−38.2)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 14.8
(0.58)
17.3
(0.68)
28.6
(1.13)
37.9
(1.49)
70.4
(2.77)
123.6
(4.87)
54.4
(2.14)
61.7
(2.43)
45.8
(1.80)
25.3
(1.00)
21.9
(0.86)
12.9
(0.51)
514.5
(20.26)
Average rainfall mm (inches) 0.3
(0.01)
0.1
(0.00)
1.6
(0.06)
16.0
(0.63)
59.1
(2.33)
123.6
(4.87)
54.4
(2.14)
61.3
(2.41)
43.4
(1.71)
10.1
(0.40)
2.3
(0.09)
0.4
(0.02)
372.6
(14.67)
Average snowfall cm (inches) 14.5
(5.7)
17.2
(6.8)
26.9
(10.6)
21.9
(8.6)
11.3
(4.4)
0.0
(0.0)
0.0
(0.0)
0.4
(0.2)
2.5
(1.0)
15.2
(6.0)
19.6
(7.7)
12.4
(4.9)
141.9
(55.9)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.2 mm) 6.7 6.5 9.2 9.8 12.9 14.5 10.9 10.9 9.0 7.8 6.7 5.8 110.7
Average rainy days (≥ 0.2 mm) 0.2 0.3 1.3 5.7 11.8 14.5 10.9 10.9 8.6 4.4 1.3 0.5 70.4
Average snowy days (≥ 0.2 cm) 6.5 6.5 8.7 6.1 2.8 0.0 0.0 0.2 1.0 4.4 5.9 5.5 47.6
Source: Environment Canada[27]

Neighbourhoods

[edit]
Downtown Okotoks

Neighbourhoods of Okotoks are:[28][29][30][31][32]

  • Air Ranch
  • Central Heights
  • Cimarron
  • Cornerstone
  • Crystal Shores
  • Crystal Ridge
  • D'Arcy
  • Downey Ridge
  • Drake Landing Solar Community
  • Green Haven Estates
  • Hunter's Glen
  • Mountainview
  • Olde Towne
  • Rosemont
  • Ranchers Rise
  • Sandstone
  • Sheep River Ridge
  • Skunk Hollow
  • Suntree
  • Tower Hill
  • Wedderburn
  • Westmount
  • Westridge
  • Woodhaven

Demographics

[edit]
Federal census
population history
YearPop.±%
1901245—    
1906508+107.3%
1911516+1.6%
1916525+1.7%
1921448−14.7%
1926579+29.2%
1931760+31.3%
1936571−24.9%
1941591+3.5%
1946694+17.4%
1951767+10.5%
1956764−0.4%
19611,043+36.5%
1966922−11.6%
19711,247+35.2%
19761,795+43.9%
19813,847+114.3%
19865,214+35.5%
19916,720+28.9%
19968,510+26.6%
200111,664+37.1%
200617,145+47.0%
201124,511+43.0%
201628,881+17.8%
202130,405+5.3%
Source: Statistics Canada
[33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41][42][43]
[11][44][45][46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54]

In the 2021 Canadian census conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Okotoks had a population of 30,405 living in 10,476 of its 10,750 total private dwellings, a change of 4.8% from its 2016 population of 29,016. With a land area of 38.55 km2 (14.88 sq mi), it had a population density of 788.7/km2 (2,042.8/sq mi) in 2021.[4]

In the Canada 2016 Census conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Okotoks recorded a population of 28,881 living in 9,667 of its 9,840 total private dwellings, a 17.8% change from its 2011 population of 24,511. With a land area of 19.63 km2 (7.58 sq mi), it had a population density of 1,471.3/km2 (3,810.6/sq mi) in 2016.[54]

The population of the Town of Okotoks according to its 2015 municipal census is 28,016, a 2.5% change from its 2014 municipal census population of 27,331.[6] At its current population, Okotoks is the largest town in the province[55] and is eligible for city status. According to Alberta's Municipal Government Act, a town is eligible for city status when it reaches 10,000 residents.[56]

Ethnicity

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Almost 3% of Okotoks residents identified themselves as aboriginal at the time of the 2006 census.[57]

Panethnic groups in the Town of Okotoks (2001−2021)
Panethnic group 2021[58] 2016[59] 2011[60] 2006[61] 2001[62]
Pop. % Pop. % Pop. % Pop. % Pop. %
European[a] 26,130 87.04% 25,330 88.81% 22,490 92.08% 16,030 93.52% 11,135 95.7%
Indigenous 1,605 5.35% 1,135 3.98% 1,065 4.36% 460 2.68% 270 2.32%
Southeast Asian[b] 990 3.3% 840 2.95% 240 0.98% 110 0.64% 40 0.34%
South Asian 335 1.12% 335 1.17% 215 0.88% 145 0.85% 25 0.21%
African 260 0.87% 240 0.84% 165 0.68% 85 0.5% 80 0.69%
East Asian[c] 250 0.83% 370 1.3% 170 0.7% 210 1.23% 80 0.69%
Latin American 250 0.83% 145 0.51% 65 0.27% 55 0.32% 0 0%
Middle Eastern[d] 65 0.22% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 10 0.09%
Other/multiracial[e] 150 0.5% 140 0.49% 20 0.08% 35 0.2% 0 0%
Total responses 30,020 98.73% 28,520 98.29% 24,425 99.65% 17,140 99.97% 11,635 99.54%
Total population 30,405 100% 29,016 100% 24,511 100% 17,145 100% 11,689 100%
Note: Totals greater than 100% due to multiple origin responses

Language

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According to the 2006 census, about 93% of residents identified English as their first language while 1.4% identified French and 1.0% identified German as their first language learned. The next most common languages were Spanish, Tagalog, Chinese, Korean, and Slovak.[63]

A view of Okotoks in 2007; overlooking downtown facing the south

Economy

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Olde Towne Plaza in downtown Okotoks

The sawmill that was established by John Lineham along the Sheep River in 1891 operated for 25 years and was a major part of the local economy. At one time it employed 135 people, producing an average of 9,100 m (30,000 ft) of lumber per day. The growth of the Canadian Pacific Railway created a demand for railway ties and the mill helped meet that demand. Logs were brought down from the west via the Sheep River. The mill has long since disappeared but one building (one of the oldest remaining in the township) still stands. It housed an award-winning (butter) dairy from the 1920s to the 1940s. It currently houses a law office and restaurant. In May 2015, the Old Creamery was severely damaged following a suspected arson attack. On 15 June 2015, the Town Council voted to demolish the building.[64]

In 1900, just west of Okotoks, four brick-making plants were opened. Many of the first brick buildings in Okotoks (of which a number still exist) were constructed using locally-made brick. The industry reached its peak in 1912, when twelve million bricks were manufactured. The outbreak of World War I caused the shutdown of “Sandstone” as it was known.

By 1906, the population had hit 1900, a figure that would not be reached again until 1977.

Oil was discovered west of Okotoks on 7 October 1913.[65] Okotoks became the supply centre. In its heyday, from 1913 to the 1960s, Okotoks was busy with horses, wagons, and transports hauling all types of equipment to the oil fields, and crude oil back through town to refineries in Calgary.

The Texas Gulf sulphur plant (known as CanOxy) opened in 1959, employing 45 people. It was not unusual to see the bright yellow, three-story high, block-long, block-wide pile of sulphur waiting to be melted or ground up and poured into railway cars.

Since 1974, Okotoks has been hosting a collector car auction in late May. It is the longest running collector car auction in Canada.[66]

Okotoks was one of the few communities its size with its own airport. A number of small air shows were held there over the years. It was the home of an aircraft charter company, flight school, and a helicopter flying school. The site has now evolved into an airpark community called the Calgary/Okotoks Air Park, where the property owners, if they wish, can build homes with attached hangars for their private planes. There is also a small private aerodrome, Calgary/Okotoks (Rowland Field) Aerodrome. Otherwise, like other communities in the vicinity of Calgary, it is served by Calgary International Airport.

Looking southwest from the valley's Northern slope

Transit

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Okotoks Transit operates an on-demand bus service within the town boundaries.[67] The system began in 2019 with accessible vans instead of traditional buses.[68]

Media

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Print

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Radio

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See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ Statistic includes all persons that did not make up part of a visible minority or an indigenous identity.
  2. ^ Statistic includes total responses of "Filipino" and "Southeast Asian" under visible minority section on census.
  3. ^ Statistic includes total responses of "Chinese", "Korean", and "Japanese" under visible minority section on census.
  4. ^ Statistic includes total responses of "West Asian" and "Arab" under visible minority section on census.
  5. ^ Statistic includes total responses of "Visible minority, n.i.e." and "Multiple visible minorities" under visible minority section on census.

References

[edit]
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  68. ^ "New Transit Bus in Okotoks". OkotoksOnline. Retrieved 6 April 2023.

Further reading

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