Humboldt, Saskatchewan

Working to accommodate potential rapid growth

Ideally situated between Saskatchewan’s three largest centres of Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Regina, lies Humboldt, a quaint city rich in cultural history. Located two miles south of the Kloppenburg Wildlife Refuge (consisting of 160 acres which have never been cultivated), the city also functions as the primary, regional hub for agricultural, manufacturing and service industries in the area.

5678

Population

13.46

Land Area, km2

43.8

Median Age

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting, Manufacturing

MAIN INDUSTRIES

English

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES

Saskatoon, Prince Albert

NEIGHBOURING AREAS

Historically, Humboldt established itself as an agricultural community, but the economy in the area has since diversified and has steadily grown in recent years. Located centrally in an area known as the “Iron Triangle”, Humboldt’s growth is a result of metal fabrication, other industrial manufacturing activity and potash mining in the area. It has yet to be determined just how much development Humboldt will see, but with potash mining in the area likely to increase exponentially over the next decade, the city is poised for even more growth.

Adapting to the current growth and preparing for the forecasted surge of labour demands has placed increased pressures on the community and surrounding areas. Numerous community planning initiatives are underway, including hiring consultants for asset management planning and allocating resources to build new recreation facilities that will attract and retain new residents. Despite the recent growth, the community is collectively working towards a common vision of maintaining a ‘small town’ feeling of connectivity and safety.

The community is also actively involved in helping newcomers access services and settle into the area. But even with such great efforts on community planning, local skills shortages are still a major issue, with help wanted signs scattered around town.

As the city grows, Humboldt is facing increasing demand of services for childcare, transportation, space in schools, as well as for workers for both service and skills positions. Housing costs have increased, but so too have wages. As residents see growth, there is a greater expectation on the development of access to services, such as health care specialists and local social service providers.

Community leaders have been coming together to work on a progressive vision for Humboldt. With continued economic development, investment and planning, the community is well positioned to attract skilled workers and their families to the area, though pressures may still exist to meet demands if they continue to increase at the predicted rates.