Small town of Cabri is experiencing population growth
By Joan Janzen
“Raise them Rural” is a popular slogan used to attract families to rural living and a small-town lifestyle. Cabri, located in southwestern Saskatchewan, is an example of one of those rural towns experiencing population growth.
The community recently opened Zambogies Mini Golf as a welcoming activity for people of all ages. Cabri’s Community Development Director, Cheyenne Bradford, said the project was funded by a memorial fund.
Historical photos of Cabri, Saskatchewan. S.W. Sask. Oldtimers’ Museum & Archive
Historical photos of Cabri, Saskatchewan. S.W. Sask. Oldtimers’ Museum & Archive
The community of Cabri, Saskatchewan recently opened Zambogies Mini Golf, which is housed in their former curling rink building.
The community of Cabri, Saskatchewan recently opened Zambogies Mini Golf, which is housed in their former curling rink building.
“When our curling rink closed, we needed something to fill the gap that could be used year-round,” she explained. The mini golf opened during their memorial hockey tournament at the end of December. It has been well used and is affordably priced at $5 per round, per person, based on an honour system.
The town also has a mini mall, which houses a fitness centre, massage therapist, hairdresser, daycare centre, and more. “We have a lot of young families and definitely have a good volunteer base,” Cheyenne said. The K–12 school is at capacity for students, and the community also has a long-term care facility and health clinic.
“We began regional municipal conversations and action planning in 2014,” Cheyenne explained. Their Three Point Economic Partnership is a regional collaboration between Cabri, Abbey, and Hazlet, as well as the RMs of Miry Creek, Riverside, and Pittville. The group continues to pursue sustainable growth for the region.
“Together, we have hosted two successful Impact Awards showcasing our businesses, volunteers, youth, and community groups in the region,” she said. In March, they will be hosting their second annual career fair.
“We work on engaging youth to consider returning home following education or work experiences to grow our local population and employment,” she added.
Statistics show that their plans are working. The most recent census showed their population rose from 390 in 2016 to 413 in 2021.
“Cabri is experiencing population growth driven by several key factors, including the rising demand for more affordable living, a desire to step away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and the appeal of greater freedom and space for children,” Cheyenne observed. Many individuals are choosing to return to their hometown to be closer to family or to work in family-run businesses and farms. “The growth of remote work has made it possible for people to enjoy rural living while maintaining stable, well-paying employment.”
People who move to rural towns and villages appreciate the community connection and meeting their neighbours. Small-town living has been the heartbeat of prairie life since the early 1900s, and now many people are choosing to return to a more affordable and friendly rural lifestyle.