Discover the Municipal District of Peace
Welcome to the Municipal District of Peace, a vibrant community located approximately 500 km northwest of Edmonton and 150 km northeast of Grande Prairie. Our district offers diverse activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike.
Nestled alongside the mighty Peace River and surrounding Lac Cardinal, the MD is a stunning region enjoyed in all seasons by both residents and visitors. Discover incredible views and our well-kept campgrounds. While crossing the river on the Shaftesbury Ferry, take in the scenery and explore the forested trails and fishing spots in Wilderness Park—one of the region's treasured destinations. With a diverse mix of local businesses, dedicated farmers, and ranchers who contribute to our progressive community, the MD of Peace 135 celebrates the unique charm of rural living. Experience all that our community has to offer!
Our Vision
Prosperous • Progressive • Peaceful
Our Mission
Providing accountable leadership for an exceptional quality of life
Explore Our Attractions
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of our area. Enjoy camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing, or explore our historical attractions and museums. From picturesque scenic vistas to vibrant market gardens, there's something to delight every interest and season. Experience the excitement of the Alberta Pond Hockey Championships at Lac Cardinal in winter or celebrate Pioneer Day at the Lac Cardinal Museum in summer. Take a leisurely paddle on the Peace River, fish in its bountiful waters, or stay in one of our charming B&Bs. Don’t miss the annual Paddle the Peace summer event for a unique outdoor adventure, and the Harvest Moon Festival in Grimshaw every September.
Urban Amenities
Our urban centers—Peace River, Grimshaw, and Berwyn—offer a variety of shopping options, motels, and restaurants to meet your needs. With a current population of 1,747 (as of the 2016 census), our community continues to grow and thrive. The Hamlet of Brownvale is a key part of our vibrant District, offering additional local amenities and attractions.
Economic Base
Agriculture forms the backbone of our economy, with 92,488 hectares dedicated to grain farming, mixed farming, and game farming (elk, buffalo). The District also supports a strong cattle farming industry, beekeeping, and a growing oil and gas sector.
Recreational Opportunities
Our recreational facilities include:
- Lac Cardinal Recreation Area: An 88-acre site featuring camping facilities, a grandstand, a historical village, and more.
- Lac Cardinal Village Pioneer Museum: This museum represents life in the 1920's and 1940’s. Four homes, a hall, a Municipal office, a school, a barnyard, pole sheds, a church, a blacksmith shop, a railway station, a barbershop, a general store, and a bakery, all furnished, depict pioneering life in this area.
- Wilderness Park: Located on a quarter section 7 miles west of Peace River, this day-use area has picnic tables, fire pits, outhouses (wheelchair accessible), and several man-made ponds stocked with rainbow trout and grayling.
- Strong Creek Park: A 20-acre municipal park with camping and a playground, located adjacent to the Peace River.
- Elk Island Campsite: A 15-acre site offering camping and a playground.
- Brownvale Ball Diamonds: Located at the Brownvale Campground.
- Brownvale Agricultural Museum: The museum displays many agricultural artifacts and machinery from the early pioneering days in this area, as well as a mechanical bull and cowboy, originally commissioned for Expo ’86.
- Brownvale Campground: Located 1 mile west and 1/2 mile north of the Hamlet of Brownvale. As well as ball diamonds, there are fire pits, 10 basic camping sites, a day-use area, outhouses, and 2 horseshoe pits.
- Mackenzie Cairn: Located along the Shaftesbury Trail, this rock cairn was built in 1929 to honor explorer Sir Alexander Mackenzie.
- Fort Fork: Located across the river from Mackenzie Cairn, the flag shows the location of the original fort, which was erected in 1792 for the North West Company.
- Shaftesbury Ferry: Ride across the river on a working ferry! The ferry operates during daylight hours (7 a.m. to 11 p.m.) and there is no charge to cross the river on it.
- Additional Amenities: A riding arena, curling rink, playground/picnic area, library, and recreation center in Brownvale.
Health Care Services
The District is part of the Peace Health Region, providing access to hospitals and medical services in Grimshaw, Peace River, and Fairview. Senior residents benefit from facilities in Berwyn, Grimshaw, and Peace River, including lodges, self-contained units, apartments, and long-term care options.
The population (2021 census) is 1581 people within the MD of Peace 135, which includes the Hamlet of Brownvale.