The Rural Municipality of Birtle is located along Provincial Trunk Highway(PTH)83 linking Manitoba's Parkland Region with the The scenic valley community surrounds the incorporated Town of Birtle, and lies 150 kilometres north of Brandon and 325 kilometres north west of Winnipeg, the provincial capital.
History
The Rural Municipality of Birtle, and the town bearing the same name, began as a stopping place on the Edmonton Trail out of Fort Garry. The community arose after surveyors to the area returned east and described the rich, fertile soil, the beautiful rolling hills, and the plentiful timber the region had to offer. The "Hamilton Colonization Company" was formed and began selling the town site of Birtle as a worthy place to live and do business. The natural potential of the area lured the first wave of settlers from Ontario in the 1880's. Soon, others heard of the wonders of the Birtle area, and more settlers arrived through the 1890's and the turn of the century. The community grew quickly. Much of the products needed by the townsfolk were produced locally, following the construction of a sawmill, creamery, cheese factory, and cement producing kilns. Homes, buildings and barns began to rise quickly, and many still stand today.
Economic Base
The primary source of Birtle's income is from agriculture and related industries. The Town of Birtle is an agricultural service centre for the prosperous farming community in the area. Several more agriculture related businesses operate in the surrounding municipality to further serve local farms. Cereal crops and oilseeds are principal crops, but livestock and specialty animals are becoming increasingly important to the economy. Tourism is a growing part of Birtle's economy as well. The Town and Municipality of Birtle, and the Birdtail Valley have much to offer in the way of recreational facilities and activities.
Major Attractions
Throughout the municipality, vast farm fields and dense wooded areas make perfect habitat for deer and many types of fowl. The Birdtail River, winding through the municipality, offers great fishing. Outdoors enthusiasts both locally and from afar, enjoy fishing throughout the year, and hunting in the fall. Boating and canoeing on the river are always popular, and a campground sits near the public beach for weekend adventures in the outdoors. The Birtle Riverside Golf Course is a quaint little course that plays along the edge of the river and up the side of the valley. The beautiful course must be played by any golfer visiting the area, if not for the scenery alone. During the winter months, several cross-country ski and snowmobile trails wind their way through the municipality. The Town of Birtle, only moments away, offers several more facilities including hockey and curling rinks, baseball diamonds and tennis courts. Winter or summer, there is always something to be done in Birtle.
