12015 Range Road 63
Rural Cypress County Rural Cypress County T0K 1Z0

$999,000
Residential beds: 5 baths: 4.0 2,569 sq. ft. built: 1986

Main Photo: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 1: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 2: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 3: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 4: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 5: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 6: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 7: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 8: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 9: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 10: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 11: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 12: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 13: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 14: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 15: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 16: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 17: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 18: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 19: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 20: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 21: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 22: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 23: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 24: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 25: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 26: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 27: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 28: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 29: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 30: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 31: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 32: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 33: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 34: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 35: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 36: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 37: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 38: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 39: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 40: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 41: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 42: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 43: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 44: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 45: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 46: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 47: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 48: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 49: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Photo 50: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
Status:
Active
Prop. Type:
Residential
MLS® Num:
A2331747
Bedrooms:
5
Bathrooms:
4
Year Built:
1986
Welcome to your own private country retreat just minutes from Medicine Hat! Set on an impressive 16.01 acres, this exceptional acreage offers the perfect combination of peaceful rural living, breathtaking prairie views, and the convenience of being only a short drive from the city. With S.M.R.I.D . water rights, West Side Water Co-op and a spacious 2,569 sq. ft. home, 5 bedrooms, a horse/animal barn, and a double attached garage, this property is ideal for families, hobby farmers, or anyone looking to enjoy the acreage lifestyle. Step inside to a bright and welcoming living room that flows effortlessly into the formal dining area before leading to the spacious kitchen and breakfast nook. The kitchen is thoughtfully designed with a large Centre island, generous pantry, ample cabinetry and counter space, and includes all appliances. Just steps away, the cozy family room features a beautiful stone-faced fireplace and access to the expansive covered deck—an ideal place to relax while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding property. The main level offers 4 generously sized bedrooms, including a spacious primary suite complete with a walk-in closet and private 3pc ensuite. A convenient 2pc powder room and main floor laundry add to the home's functional layout. The lower level provides an abundance of additional living space with two large family rooms, a recreation/games area, a 5th bedroom, a 3pc bathroom, a convenient kitchenette, and extensive storage throughout—perfect for entertaining, accommodating guests. Outside, this meticulously maintained property truly shines. The 16.01 acres provide endless possibilities, whether you're raising horses, keeping animals, or simply enjoying the wide open space. A well equipped horse/animal barn, shed, double attached garage, oversized driveway, and ample parking for vehicles, trailers, and recreational equipment complete this outstanding acreage. If you've been searching for the perfect balance of country living, space, and convenience, this exceptional property is one you won't want to miss.
Property Type:
Residential
Property Sub Type:
Detached
Condo Type:
Not a Condo
Transaction Type:
For Sale
Possession:
Possession Date:
Suite:
No
Num Legal Suites:
0
Num Illegal Suites:
0
Home Style:
Acreage with Residence, Bungalow
Total Living Area:
2,569 sq. ft.
Lower Level Finished Area:
Above Grade Finished Area:
Taxes:
Tax Assessed Value:
HOA Fee Includes:
Acreage:
Yes
Lot Area:
16 acre(s)
Acres Cleared:
Acres Cultivated:
Acres Irrigated:
Acres Leasehold:
Acres Not Cultivated:
Acres Freehold:
Acres Seeded:
Acres Tame Hay:
Acres Treed:
Acres Waste:
Acres Water Rights:
Front Exposure:
West
Reg. Size:
Reg. Size Includes:
Levels:
One
Total Rooms Above Grade:
8
Year built:
1986 (Age: 40)
Bedrooms:
5 (Above Grd: 4)
Bedrooms Above Grade:
4
Bedrooms On Main:
4
Bedrooms Below Grade:
1
Bathrooms:
4.0 (Full:3, Half:1)
Num Ensuite Baths:
1
Heating:
Forced Air, Natural Gas
Basement:
Full, Partially Finished, None
Foundation:
Poured Concrete
New Constr.:
No
Construction Material:
Brick, Stucco
Structure Type:
House
Roof:
Asphalt Shingle
Ensuite:
Yes
Flooring:
Carpet, Linoleum
Cooling:
None
Fireplaces:
1
Fireplace Details:
Wood Burning
Water Supply:
Co-operative
Sewer:
Septic System
Garage:
Yes
Garage Spaces:
2
Parking:
Double Garage Attached, Driveway, Garage Door Opener, Heated Garage, RV Access/Parking
Laundry Features:
Main Level
Built-In Oven, Built-In Range, Dishwasher, Freezer, Garage Control(s), Refrigerator, Stove(s), Washer/Dryer, Window Coverings
stove x2, fridge x2, freezer, garage door opener x2, ceiling fans x3, central vacuum + attachments, underground sprinklers + timer, window coverings, shed, pool table, washer and dryer
None Known
Floor
Type
Size
Other
Main Floor
Bedroom
11'4" × 11'
Main Floor
Bedroom
12'2" × 11'2"
Main Floor
Bedroom
14'7" × 13'6"
Main Floor
Walk-In Closet
6'7" × 6'7"
Main Floor
Bedroom
12'1" × 12'
Main Floor
Entrance
7'4" × 6'2"
Main Floor
Family Room
23'5" × 17'3"
Main Floor
Kitchen
13'6" × 12'
Main Floor
Breakfast Nook
13'6" × 8'4"
Main Floor
Dining Room
12'6" × 11'2"
Main Floor
Living Room
19'5" × 11'4"
Main Floor
Laundry
10'5" × 9'11"
Lower Level
Family Room
28'4" × 22'5"
Lower Level
Bedroom
13'5" × 11'11"
Lower Level
Furnace/Utility Room
16'10" × 7'4"
Lower Level
Furnace/Utility Room
20'10" × 14'6"
Lower Level
Family Room
42'5" × 10'7"
Lower Level
Game Room
17'4" × 13'9"
Lower Level
Kitchenette
19'6" × 14'11"
Floor
Ensuite
Pieces
Other
Main Floor
No
4
8'3" x 8'4"
Main Floor
Yes
3
8'7" x 6'7"
Main Floor
No
2
6'10" x 5'
Lower Level
No
3
10'10" x 6'1"
Title to Land:
Fee Simple
Community Features:
None
Interior Features:
Ceiling Fan(s), Kitchen Island, Pantry, Storage, Walk-In Closet(s)
Exterior Features:
Storage
Patio And Porch Features:
Deck
Lot Features:
Landscaped, Many Trees
Num. of Parcels:
0
Outbuildings:
Shed, Barn
Fencing:
Partial
Nearest Town:
Medicine Hat
Region:
Cypress County
Zoning:
A1-IDP
Listed Date:
Jul 29, 2026
Days on Mkt:
  • Photo 1: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 1 of 50
  • Photo 2: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 2 of 50
  • Photo 3: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 3 of 50
  • Photo 4: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 4 of 50
  • Photo 5: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 5 of 50
  • Photo 6: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 6 of 50
  • Photo 7: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 7 of 50
  • Photo 8: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 8 of 50
  • Photo 9: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 9 of 50
  • Photo 10: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 10 of 50
  • Photo 11: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 11 of 50
  • Photo 12: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 12 of 50
  • Photo 13: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 13 of 50
  • Photo 14: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 14 of 50
  • Photo 15: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 15 of 50
  • Photo 16: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 16 of 50
  • Photo 17: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 17 of 50
  • Photo 18: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 18 of 50
  • Photo 19: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 19 of 50
  • Photo 20: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 20 of 50
  • Photo 21: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 21 of 50
  • Photo 22: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 22 of 50
  • Photo 23: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 23 of 50
  • Photo 24: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 24 of 50
  • Photo 25: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 25 of 50
  • Photo 26: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 26 of 50
  • Photo 27: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 27 of 50
  • Photo 28: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 28 of 50
  • Photo 29: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 29 of 50
  • Photo 30: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 30 of 50
  • Photo 31: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 31 of 50
  • Photo 32: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 32 of 50
  • Photo 33: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 33 of 50
  • Photo 34: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 34 of 50
  • Photo 35: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 35 of 50
  • Photo 36: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 36 of 50
  • Photo 37: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 37 of 50
  • Photo 38: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 38 of 50
  • Photo 39: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 39 of 50
  • Photo 40: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 40 of 50
  • Photo 41: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 41 of 50
  • Photo 42: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 42 of 50
  • Photo 43: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 43 of 50
  • Photo 44: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 44 of 50
  • Photo 45: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 45 of 50
  • Photo 46: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 46 of 50
  • Photo 47: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 47 of 50
  • Photo 48: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 48 of 50
  • Photo 49: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 49 of 50
  • Photo 50: 12015 Range Road 63 in Rural Cypress County: Detached for sale : MLS®# A2331747
    Photo 50 of 50
Larger map options:
Listed by ROYAL LEPAGE COMMUNITY REALTY
Data was last updated August 21, 2026 at 12:05 AM (UTC)
Area Statistics
Listings on market:
25
Avg list price:
$850,000
Min list price:
$179,000
Max list price:
$3,000,000
Avg days on market:
80
Min days on market:
14
Max days on market:
574
Avg price per sq.ft.:
$487.42
These statistics are generated based on the current listing's property type and located in Rural Cypress County. Average values are derived using median calculations. This data is not produced by the MLS® system.
powered by myRealPage.com

Bow Island Alberta Information

Bow Island (/bo?/) is a town in Alberta, Canada. It is located on Highway 3 in southern Alberta, approximately 100 km (62 mi) north of the United States border, 320 km (200 mi) southeast of Calgary and 51 km (32 mi) southwest of Medicine Hat. The community of Bow Island received its first post-colonial families in 1900. In February 1910,[6] the Village of Bow Island was formed, and by March 1912 the village was declared the Town of Bow Island. The naming of Bow Island brings many stories to the forefront, but the most prominent one is that the communities of Grassy Lake, approximately 25 km (16 mi) to the west, and Bow Island had their respective names mixed up. An island named “Bow Island” is located north of Grassy Lake near the confluence of the Bow River and the Oldman River, while a low depressional area named “Grassy Lake” is located south of Bow Island. Bow Island was one of the first towns in Alberta to have natural gas wells and operated them until the franchise was sold to a private company. In the early 1950s, irrigation was extended to the Bow Island area, and the town doubled in population. Bow Island is surrounded by 110,000 acres (445 km2) of highly productive lands. Some of the most modern irrigation systems in the world are located in the area; the first pivot and linear sprinkler systems in Canada were erected in the Bow Island area. A completely automated distribution system was installed in 1982 by the St. Mary River Irrigation District (SMRID), and it serves an area of 5,000 acres (20 km2). The system is known as the Lateral 12 System and has been toured by groups from around the world. Bow Island is located between the cities of Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. Its nearest community is the Hamlet of Burdett. The town of Bow Island sits inside of Forty Mile County. In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Bow Island had a population of 2,036 living in 674 of its 724 total private dwellings, a change of 2.7% from its 2016 population of 1,983. With a land area of 5.68 km2 (2.19 sq mi), it had a population density of 358.5/km2 (928.4/sq mi) in 2021.[3] The population of the Town of Bow Island according to its 2017 municipal census is 2,043,[7] a change of 9.4% from its 2007 municipal census population of 1,868.[8] In the 2016 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, the Town of Bow Island recorded a population of 1,983 living in 636 of its 682 total private dwellings, a -2.1% change from its 2011 population of 2,025. With a land area of 5.81 km2 (2.24 sq mi), it had a population density of 341.3/km2 (884.0/sq mi) in 2016.[9] Bow Island is well known for its dry edible bean industry. A 5.5 metre (18 ft) tall statue of the mascot “Pinto MacBean” is located adjacent to Highway No. 3 and greets everyone coming into town. Bow Island is also the largest spearmint-producing region in Canada, with 4 farms in the surrounding area producing 25% of the North American demand for Scotch spearmint essential oil, used in flavouring candy, gum, mints and toothpaste.[10] A mustard seed processing facility was opened in Bow Island in 2019.[11] The site was originally the home of Spitz, which started producing sunflower seeds there in 1982. Spitz was sold to PepsiCo in 2008, and production was moved out in 2018.[12] “Blues at the Bow Live”, located in the historic Bow Theatre, is an internationally renowned live blues venue featuring Grammy and Juno Award winning blues artists. This nonprofit, solely volunteer operated Canadian blues society was formed in 1993. The society’s first show to be held in the Bow Theatre took place on December 17, 1994. They have been hosting sold-out performances since inception. Blues at the Bow draws patrons from every corner of the province of Alberta and beyond.[13] Bow Island has three public schools, Senator Gershaw School (which serves Grades 4-12), Bow Island Elementary School (serving K-Grade 3), and St. Michael’s School, a Catholic school that educates children from Pre-K to Grade 12. Senator Gershaw and Bow Island Elementary are part of the Prairie Rose School Division, while St. Michael’s is part of Holy Spirit Catholic Schools. Bow Island also has one private Christian school: Cherry Coulee Christian Academy. A Mennonite Christian school is also located is Bow Island just south of Centennial Park, called Sun Country Christian School. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bow_Island

Bow Island Alberta Homes MLS®

Welcome to our Bow Island Alberta Homes MLS® Search page, where you can explore a diverse selection of Homes MLS® listings.

www.FarmForSale.ca is produced by Steve LeBlanc, an experienced Farm and Commercial Realtor®, The search pre-set includes Homes listings within a 50 km radius of Bow Island Alberta, each listing provides detailed insights into the Bow Island Alberta area.

Whether looking for Farms, Ranch, Land, Commercial or Residential, you will find valuable information about the local community, amenities, and market trends. Our advanced search filters allow you to easily refine your search by location, property type, price range, and more, while interactive maps help you visualize property locations and explore surrounding areas.

Each listing includes comprehensive details, high-quality photos, and key features to assist you in making informed decisions. Additionally, Steve LeBlanc offers insights into the Bow Island Alberta area real estate market, community highlights, and essential amenities, helping you understand each property’s unique characteristics.

Steve LeBlanc’s years of experience in Farm and Commercial real estate ensure you receive knowledgeable and personalized assistance throughout your buying or selling journey.

Welcome to www.FarmForSale.ca

Steve LeBlanc

Farm | Ranch | Land | Commercial
Alberta & Saskatchewan

Licensed Realtor® | Associate
Marcel LeBlanc Real Estate Inc.

Contact
Phone: 403-391-6447
Email: steve@leblancrealty.ca
Website: www.FarmForSale.ca

Contact by
Phone | Text | Email | Contact Form

steve leblanc farm realtor home picture Alberta & Saskatchewan
topsoil Depth (in) Alberta Source aafc slc version 3.2

Understanding Topsoil Depth in Alberta: Insights from AAFC SLC Version 3.2 Data

Topsoil depth is a critical factor for agricultural productivity, influencing water retention, nutrient availability, and root growth. The provided map of Alberta illustrates the topsoil depth in inches, highlighting significant regional variations. This analysis is based on data from the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Soil Landscapes of Canada (SLC) Version 3.2.

Key Observations

The topsoil depth in Western Alberta and the Rockies is generally shallow, ranging from 0 to 6 inches. This is due to the rugged terrain and erosional processes associated with mountainous regions. The shallow topsoil in these areas supports forests and natural vegetation rather than extensive agriculture.

Central Alberta, including areas around Edmonton and Red Deer, exhibits moderate to deep topsoil depths, generally between 8 to 14 inches. These depths are conducive to productive agriculture, supporting a variety of crops. The deeper topsoil in central regions contributes to higher agricultural yields and sustainable farming practices.

In Southern and Eastern Alberta, regions such as Calgary and areas towards the Saskatchewan border show variable topsoil depths ranging from 6 to 10 inches. While suitable for agriculture, these areas may require careful soil management to maintain productivity. Areas with shallower topsoil are more drought-resistant and may need irrigation and soil conservation practices.

Regional Analysis

The Rocky Mountain Influence is evident in the shallow topsoil of the Rocky Mountain foothills, resulting from the rocky and rugged terrain, limiting soil accumulation. These areas are more suited to forest growth and natural vegetation rather than intensive agriculture.

In contrast, the Prairie Conditions in central Alberta benefit from moderate to deep topsoil, which is ideal for crop production and supports Alberta’s agricultural economy. Maintaining topsoil depth through conservation practices is essential for sustaining long-term agrarian productivity in these areas.

Implications for Agriculture

Understanding topsoil depth is crucial for effective soil management practices, including crop selection, irrigation, and fertilization. Farmers can use this data to optimize their farming practices, choosing crops suited to the available topsoil depth and implementing appropriate soil conservation measures. Deeper topsoil improves water retention and nutrient availability, which is essential for healthy crop growth and high yields.

Conclusion

The topsoil depth map of Alberta reveals significant regional variations influenced by geographical features such as the Rocky Mountains and the fertile plains of central Alberta. Understanding these variations is crucial for optimizing agricultural practices and ensuring sustainable farming. By leveraging this data, farmers can improve crop yields, manage soil health, and enhance overall agrarian productivity in Alberta.

Sources

  • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Soil Landscapes of Canada (SLC) Version 3.2 Data
  • Alberta Agriculture and Forestry