Ponoka, Alberta facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ponoka
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Town
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| Town of Ponoka | |
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2018 Ponoka Stampede
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 Ponoka
Location in Alberta
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| Country | Canada |
| Province | Alberta |
| Region | Central Alberta |
| Census division | 8 |
| Municipal district | Ponoka County |
| Incorporated | |
| • Village | October 19, 1900 |
| • Town | October 15, 1904 |
| Area
(2021)
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| • Land | 17.22 km2 (6.65 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 807 m (2,648 ft) |
| Population
(2021)
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| • Total | 7,331 |
| • Density | 425.8/km2 (1,103/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC−7 (MST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−6 (MDT) |
| Forward sortation area |
T4J
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| Area code(s) | +1-403, +1-587 |
| Highways | Highway 2A Highway 53 |
| Waterway | Battle River |
Ponoka is a town in central Alberta, Canada. It is located where Highway 2A and Highway 53 meet. Ponoka is about 59 kilometers (37 miles) north of Red Deer and 95 kilometers (59 miles) south of Edmonton.
The name Ponoka comes from the Blackfoot language and means "elk." You can even see an elk on the town's flag! The main office for Ponoka County is also located in Ponoka.
Contents
History of Ponoka
The area where Ponoka is located was home to the Cree people for thousands of years. The town of Ponoka started in 1891 as a stop for the railway line that ran between Edmonton and Calgary. Ponoka officially became a town in 1904.
People Living in Ponoka
In 2021, the Town of Ponoka had a population of 7,331 people. This was a small increase from its 2016 population of 7,229. The town covers an area of about 17.22 square kilometers (6.65 square miles). This means there were about 425.8 people living in each square kilometer in 2021.
Ponoka's Economy
The main ways people make a living in Ponoka are through farming, especially growing grain and raising cattle. The town also has industries related to oil and gas production.
Fun Things to Do in Ponoka
Ponoka is famous for the Ponoka Stampede, a big seven-day rodeo event. It happens at the end of June or beginning of July, usually around the Canada Day long weekend. This event is part of a professional rodeo tour and includes a midway with rides and games. You can also watch exciting chuckwagon racing at the Stampede!
Outdoor Adventures in Ponoka
The Wolf Creek Trail is a great place to explore nature. It starts near the Ponoka Community Golf Course and follows the Battle River north for several kilometers. Along the trail, you'll find signs that tell you about local wild animals and interesting historical facts. There are also baseball fields, benches, and picnic tables for everyone to enjoy.
Lions Centennial Park is another large park in Ponoka. It has a pond with a dock, and a stage for events. You can see "The World's Largest Bucking Saddle Bronc and Rider" statue there! The park also has picnic areas, the Fort Ostell Museum, and a splash park for cooling off.
Important Services in Ponoka
Ponoka has several important health care facilities. These include the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre, which provides general health care. The Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury helps people with mental health needs and has a special program for brain injuries. There are also care centers like Northcott Care Centre and Rimoka Housing Facility that provide care for the elderly and people with disabilities.
Safety and Protection
The Ponoka County Volunteer Fire Department provides fire services to the town. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detachment in Ponoka is responsible for policing and keeping the community safe. The town also has special officers who work with the RCMP to enforce local rules.
See also
In Spanish: Ponoka para niños
