Economic Expert Highlights Vegreville’s Growing Population at ATB's AGRICulture Talks Conference

The Town of Vegreville was proud to sponsor ATB's AGRICulture Talks conference, held at the Vegreville Social Centre on February 13, 2025.

The event attracted approximately 300 producers from across the region, eager to hear insights from industry experts in both agriculture and finance. Among the featured speakers was Mark Parsons, Vice President and Chief Economist at ATB Financial, who brings over 20 years of experience in senior economic roles, including positions with Alberta Treasury Board and Finance.

Parsons' presentation provided a comprehensive economic outlook for Alberta, covering key topics such as the ongoing—but improving—battle against inflation, Canada’s economic relationship with the U.S. in light of recent tariff threats, and Alberta’s recent population boom, primarily driven by interprovincial migration.

Of particular interest, Parsons highlighted Vegreville’s significant population growth. According to his data, sourced from Statistics Canada, Vegreville’s population surpassed 6,100 as of July 1, 2024—an increase of 5% since 2022. He also noted broader regional trends, specifically referencing the projected growth of Census Division 10, which includes Lloydminster and Vegreville. Based on Statistics Canada projections, the region’s population is expected to rise from approximately 102,000 in 2024 to over 115,000 by 2040.

The AGRICulture Talks conference provided valuable insights into the economic landscape and reinforced agriculture's pivotal role in Alberta's economy.