| Trade Area:
The trading area includes the R. M.’s of Coldwell and Siglunes. The total population of this trade area is 3,722.
Agriculture:
Agriculture and its related businesses continue to be the major economic activity in the Western Interlake. The relatively low land prices, the ability of this land to produce high quality forage crops, the abundance of clean water, and the stable cattle prices have combined to make this area one of the best beef producing areas in the country. The major products produced in this region are agricultural products, specifically grain, hay, forage seed, livestock and PMU (Pregnant Mares Urine). The production of cattle is perhaps the most important agricultural sector in the Western Interlake. Cattle farmers in the R. M. of Eriksdale Agriculture District (the Agriculture District includes Eriksdale, Coldwell and St. Laurent) area managing approximately 44,917 cattle in 2001 of which 15,781 were beef and dairy cows. The majority of cattle produced locally are feeder cattle and are purchased by feedlots in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario and the United States. Veterinary clinics are located in Lundar and Ashern, providing services for small and large animals. The R. M. of Eriksdale reported $7,282,337 in Farm Cash Receipts in 2000.
Fishing:
The local fishing industry is very active during the winter months. Commercial fishing on Lake Manitoba remains a major source of income for some residents. The fishermen of Eriksdale bring their catch to one of the local co‑op's which act as regional marketing agents for the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation. They pack and send the fish to Winnipeg for processing.
Eriksdale Consumers Co-op
The Eriksdale Consumers Co‑op was formed in the early 1950's. Presently there are approximately 1270 participating members. The Co‑op sells groceries, hardware, clothing and farm supplies.
Eriksdale Credit Union
The Eriksdale Credit Union Ltd. was established in 1972 with three employees. It now employs 13 people and has assets of $50 million. A new head office was completed a block south of their current location, in November, 1998. The 7,200 square foot building has a full service ATM machine. Branches of the Eriksdale Credit Union Ltd. are also in Ashern and Moosehorn.
Labour Force:
|
Labour Force Activity |
|
In the Labour Force |
400 |
|
Not in the Labour Force |
285 |
|
Participation Rate for the Community (15 yrs +) |
58.4% |
|
Participation Rate for the Province (15 yrs +) |
67.3% |
|
Employment Rate |
54.7%
|
|
Unemployment Rate |
6.2% |
|
Source: Statistics Canada, 2006 |
|
