The Rural Municipality of Mossey River is located in the western section of Central Manitoba. The municipality is bordered on its north by the mighty Lake Winnipegosis, the third largest lake in Manitoba. The R.M. of Mossey River also touches the north shore of Lake Dauphin on its southern boundary. The R.M. of Mossey River connects both lakes together. The municipality is located 223 kilometres north of Brandon, Manitoba's second largest city and is well accessed by many highways. Provincial Trunk Highway 20 passes through the municipality, while Provincial Roads 269 and 364 also service the communities of Mossey River. Fork River, Oak Brae, Volga and the Village of Winnipegosis are the large centres that are found in the community.
History
Explorers were already active in this area by the late 1700's. Explorers such as David Thompson and relatives of La Verendrye, helped establish the future roots of the Village of Winnipegosis.
With the opening of the rail line from Dauphin in 1897, immigration into the region increased. Mossey River was incorporated as a municipality on May 1, 1906. The Village of Winnipegosis followed suit quickly and was incorporated in 1915. The Village became a central trading point for fishing, lumbering, and in its early years, fur trading. Lumbering and fishing soon took over, and became a major economic activity in Mossey River.
Economic Base
The economic base of the community is agriculture. Major crops grown in Mossey River include wheat, barley, oats and canola. The northern and western portions of the municipality are mostly ranch operations. Besides direct farming, agri-business has a presence in the region. Agricore is a prominent employer in Mossey River, and employs approximately 10 residents from Fork River.
Major Attractions
With its diverse geography of rolling farmlands, forests and lakes, Mossey River has excellent recreational opportunities. The area boasts excellent hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, hiking and camping. Hunting for deer, duck and goose is popular in the municipality. Fishing for pike and pickerel is also a common and fun way to spend time while visiting Mossey River.
Centennial Beach and Winnipegosis Beach offer great sporting, picnicking and camping facilites. These fine jewels of western Manitoba cannot be missed on a hot summer's day!
Other Information
"Winnipegosis" was derived from the native word meaning "Little Muddy Water".
