The virtual road trip series by CBC,Land of Living Stories, delves into the hidden treasures scattered across Saskatchewan. Reporter Janani Whitfield embarked on a journey to Gravelbourg to uncover tales of community unity. This marks the beginning of a four-part series from that locality.
Although Canadian Thanksgiving had recently passed, a visit to the dining area at La Maison B&B in Gravelbourg would have revealed the distinct accents of American visitors sharing in the festive feast.
Despite ongoing international tensions between Canada and the U.S., statistics indicate that Americans have continued their tradition of traveling to Saskatchewan for fishing and hunting this year. Toos Giesen-Stefiuk, the proprietor of the B&B in Gravelbourg, expresses gratitude for the consistent patronage of American visitors.
“Their presence significantly benefits the community. They contribute to the local economy through expenditures on fuel, vehicle maintenance, accommodations, dining, and groceries,” she remarked.
She estimates that these hunters inject a $100,000 economic boost annually into the town, which boasts a population of just under 1,000 according to the 2021 census. Every week, a group flies into Regina before making the two-hour drive southwest to Gravelbourg, while others journey from states as distant as Michigan or Arkansas.
Visiting tourist Joe Dunbar expressed his delight, stating, “It’s a wonderful type of bird hunting that we no longer have the opportunity to experience back home.”
Here in Gravelbourg, Dunbar enjoys hunting mallards and geese in open fields, an experience he notes is not feasible in Texas due to bird migration changes and urban development.
Many of these hunters have established enduring traditions, visiting the area for years, even decades, and forging personal relationships with local residents.
Significant Economic Impact on Saskatchewan
Every year, tens of thousands of American anglers and hunters make their way to the province. The vast majority of outfitters report that 90% of their clientele originates from the U.S., with the outfitting industry generating $150 million in revenue and capital investment annually, as per Tourism Saskatchewan.
In April, the Saskatchewan Commission of Professional Outfitters conducted a survey among its members, with one-third expressing concerns about losing clients due to international tensions. Potential reasons included American discontent with counter-tariffs, border uncertainties, or apprehensions regarding their reception in Canada.
However, the data does not support these worries. While American tourism to Canada has declined in general, Saskatchewan has seen consistent numbers, with 12,394 hunting and fishing licenses