Economy
Canadian Forces Base/Area Support Unit Wainwright
The Canadian Forces Base/Area Support Unit Wainwright is very important to the M.D. of Wainwright. CFB/ASU Wainwright trains over 6,000 troops annually and has over 600 permanent military positions in place. Sources have indicated that the economic impact to the area is in excess of $40 million annually. Military presence in the area is planned to continue to grow in the near future. Infrastructure development impact at CFB/ASU Wainwright and surrounding area has been and will continue to be immense in the forthcoming future.
Agriculture
The agriculture industry within the M.D. of Wainwright is an integral part of the success of our area. As with much of Alberta, agriculture is a very large part of industry within the municipal district, making up approximately 40% of our work force. Throughout the M.D. of Wainwright are numerous grain farming and livestock operations, as well as some specialized crops and dairy farming.
Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry plays a key part in the operation of the M.D. of Wainwright. The Oil and Gas industry has been in the Wainwright area since the mid 1950’s starting with wells north of the Town of Wainwright. Some of these fields are still in production today. Over 72% of the M.D. of Wainwright's tax base comes from the oil and gas sector, resulting in a lower tax rate due to our large assessment base, providing great benefit to all of our ratepayers. This sector also provides a huge employment opportunity for our local people as well as bringing new individuals to live in the M.D. of Wainwright. The industry employs many on a full-time basis as well as provides farmers with the opportunity to work outside their farm to subsidize their agricultural operation.