Located just east of the City of Winnipeg, Springfield has an abundance of aggregate resources, good ground water, and a thriving agricultural community. Lying on the edge of the Red River Valley, the municipality is mostly composed of flat agricultural prairie. In areas to the north and east of the municipality, the farm fields give way to scattered brush and wooded areas. The Shoal Lake Aqueduct and the Deacon Reservoir that are situated in the southern part of the municipality, provide the only source of drinking water to the Capital City of Winnipeg. The Red River Flood Way dissects the western portion of Springfield. The Floodway is one of the world's greatest engineering achievements, and one of the few man-made structures visible from space. "Duff's Ditch", named for former premier Duff Roblin, provides some of the best flood protection in the world to the city of Winnipeg and the Red River Valley.
History
First created as the Rural Municipality of Springfield-Sunnyside in 1873, the Rural Municipality of Springfield is the oldest municipality established in the Province of Manitoba. The R.M. celebrated its 125th birthday in 1998. Within the municipality's boundaries are the Unincorporated Urban Centres of Dugald and Oakbank, as well as, other village communities.
Economic Base
Centuries ago, the area of Springfield comprised the shores of prehistoric Lake Agassiz. Glacial deposits of sand and gravel support a major portion of the local economy today. Many sand and gravel pits and stone quarries dot the landscape providing building and construction materials to businesses in the municipality, and throughout the surrounding area. Farm supply and service centres in Oakbank, Dougald, and other urban centres support the local farming community with necessary supplies and services. The local economy is also bolstered by one of the highest per capita horse populations in the entire country. Numerous small firms and businesses provide goods and services to residents of the municipality. Highway 15 connects Winnipeg with cabin country Whiteshell Provincial Park and the eastern areas of the province, and runs through Springfield. Many businesses here offer a chance to stop for last minute fuel or supplies on a weekend outing.
Major Attractions
The largest recreation facility in the Municipality is Bird's Hill Provincial Park. Created in the late 1960's, the natural area offers camping and picnic grounds, walking and hiking trails, and a small man-made lake and sandy beach for swimming and water fun. The main entrance to the park is located just off Highway 59, which is a four-lane route providing easy north-south access to the other areas of the province. Community events such as rodeos, sporting tournaments and fairs are held here on many weekends throughout the summer months, and many times during the winter.
Other Information
With many residents of the Rural Municipality of Springfield commuting to Winnipeg to work, the area has become known as a "bedroom community". This quiet rural community offers a convenient alternative to the fast-paced life of the big city.
