The Town of Birtle is located along Provincial Trunk Highways 42 and 83, and links Manitoba's Parkland Region to the United States. This scenic valley community lies 150 kilometres northwest of Brandon and 325 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg, the provincial capital.
History
Birtle and the surrounding Rural Municipality of Birtle began as a stopping place on the Edmonton Trail, out of Fort Garry. The community developed after surveyors to the area discovered the rich, fertile soil, the beautiful rolling hills, and the plentiful timber the region had to offer. The area also had fresh clean water from a natural spring at the edge of the Birdtail River. 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 pop up quickly, and many still stand today.
Economic Base
The primary source of Birtle's economy is agriculture. The Town of Birtle is an agricultural service centre for the prosperous farming community in the area. Several more agriculturally related businesses operate in the surrounding municipality to further serve local farms. Cereal crops and oilseeds are principal crops, with livestock and specialty animals becoming an increasingly important part of 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
Summer facilities include the Birtle Riverside Golf Course, and a public beach and swimming area complete with a campground. Summer activities include hiking, biking and horseback riding, tennis, baseball, and leisurely strolls on the river walkway.
The Birdtail River is also a great place for boating, canoeing and fishing in the summer. In the winter months, the curling rink and hockey arena are always busy with activity, while kilometres of hiking trails provide the playing field for cross-country skiers, and snowmobilers of all caliber.
For those interested in culture and history, the Birtle museum features displays depicting much of the history of the area and of its original pioneers.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
The Birdtail Valley cuts deeply into the prairie landscape, and is a beautiful backdrop for all outdoor activities in all seasons. Recreational amenities in the area are diverse and well developed.
The Birtle Riverside Campground is located 1 kilometre west of Birtle, and is open from May - September. The campground has 34 sites designed for campers of all sizes, with eight being located alongside the beautiful Birdtail River. There are also five cabins and three tenting sites available for rent. The golf course, tennis courts, and swimming pool are just a short walk from the campground. A serviced site is $14/night, $84/week, tenting sites are $8/night, $48/week and cabin rentals are $14/night, $84/week, which may be paid by Interac, Visa or Mastercard. To reserve a campsite, contact the Birtle Tourist Information Centre at 842-3854 or 1-800-417-1022.
Birtle Riverside Golf Course is situated on the side of the valley just two minutes from town. This is a scenic nine-hole course with mature greens along the picturesque Birdtail River. The course had recently undergone a major renovation that included the building of new tee boxes and the planting of many new trees. The clubhouse has a convenient kitchen and comfortable licensed dining area complete with outdoor deck overlooking the river. The club sponsors several tournaments during the season including an annual member's tournament, men's and ladies' open, and a R.C.M.P tournament to raise funds for local causes. Golf carts and clubs are available for rent. For more information please call 842-5364.
The tennis courts are adjacent to the golf course. They are constructed of asphalt, have a plexipave finish and are enclosed by a 12-foot chain link fence. Tournaments and clinics are offered throughout the season.
The swimming area is a pleasant site alongside the river and has the advantage of a large, sandy beach plus chlorinated water. During the summer months, there are qualified lifeguards for public swimming, and swimming lessons for all levels.
The beautiful Birdtail Valley provides the setting for well-groomed, cross-country ski trails that double as hiking trails or a challenging ride for mountain bikers. Two-minutes west of Birtle, you will find a 15-kilometre loop with options of 2 1/2, 4, 5, or 7 1/2 kilometres, all along the side of the valley. Be prepared to surprise or be surprised by deer, porcupines, squirrels, partridge and many other critters that share the valley.
There is a large deer population, as well as, ducks, geese, pheasant and wild turkey in this area. Moose and elk can be found further north towards Riding Mountain National Park.
The Snake Creek Wildlife Association is involved with the conservation of wildlife habitat, and works closely with the Gun Club and Ducks Unlimited. Hunter Safety courses are offered yearly.
Snowtraxx Snowmobile Club Inc, a non-profit organization, has developed approximately 322 kilometres of groomed snowmobile trails, servicing the communities of Birtle, Foxwarren, Russell, Binscarth, St.Lazare, Rossburn, Waywayseecappo, and Angusville. The Snowtraxx Trails provide safe, enjoyable passage for snowmobile enthusiasts. Birtle also has designated trails in town that allow snowmobilers access to food and gas.
The Birtle and District Community Centre is a relatively new arena, which boasts a large artificial ice surface, spacious indoor viewing area, and sideline bleachers. There is a well-equipped kitchen from which many meals are served. The arena is the centre for a full-range of Intermediate Minor Hockey for boys and girls, which include the local high school team, and recreational and old timer hockey. Manitoba Rural Female Hockey League west division teams also exist in the area.
The Curling Rink is the centre of much activity all winter. Four sheets of artificial ice guarantee a regular league season from November until March. Mixed curling takes place one afternoon and one evening a week,
