List of Indian reserves in Alberta facts for kids

Indian reserves in Alberta are special areas of land set aside for First Nations people. These lands were created through agreements called Numbered Treaties between First Nations and the Canadian government. In Alberta, the main treaties that set up these reserves are Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8.

The Government of Alberta says that these reserves cover a total area of about 1,622,630 acres. However, another government department, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, states the total area is about 866,022.8 hectares. Both Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada and Statistics Canada also recognize six special areas called Indian settlements within Alberta.

Understanding Reserves in Alberta

Reserves are lands where First Nations communities live and govern themselves. They are very important for preserving the culture, traditions, and way of life of Indigenous peoples.

How Reserves Were Formed

The reserves in Alberta were created through agreements known as the Numbered Treaties. These treaties were signed between the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were meant to share the land and resources between First Nations and the Canadian government. Each treaty covered a different part of Canada and involved different First Nations groups.

• Treaty 6: Signed in 1876, this treaty covers central Alberta and Saskatchewan.
• Treaty 7: Signed in 1877, this treaty covers southern Alberta.
• Treaty 8: Signed in 1899, this treaty covers northern Alberta, parts of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories.

These treaties are still very important today. They guide the relationship between First Nations and the Canadian government.

Who Lives on Reserves?

Many different First Nations groups live on reserves in Alberta. These groups have their own unique languages, cultures, and histories. Some of the main groups include:

• Cree
• Nakoda (Stoney)
• Blackfoot (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani)
• Dene (including Chipewyan, Slavey, and Dane-zaa)
• Anishinaabe

Each First Nation has its own government and manages its reserve lands.

List of Reserves and Settlements

Alberta has many different reserves and a few Indian settlements. These areas vary greatly in size and population. The table below shows some examples of these lands, including their size, the First Nation living there, and their population.

Indian Settlements

Besides reserves, there are also "Indian settlements" in Alberta. These are similar to reserves but might have slightly different legal arrangements. They are also lands where First Nations communities live.

See also

• First Nations in Alberta
• List of Indian reserves in Canada
• List of communities in Alberta
• List of municipalities in Alberta
• Métis in Alberta