The
Town of The Pas and Neighboring Opaskwayak Cree Nation
are commonly referred to as "The Gateway To The
North". Located on Highway 10 just over 600 kilometers
north of Winnipeg, the two communities and surrounding
area have a population base of approximately 15,000.
Accessible by road, bus and rail, the community also
features a.m. and p.m. flights to Winnipeg
Opaskwayak
Cree Nation is one of the most affluent and
progressive native populations in all of Canada. With
a land base of almost 15,000 acres the band is very
progressive in its economic, education and recreational
development. Its economy and educational ventures include
the Otineka Mall, Gordon Lathlin Memorial Centre, Band
Offices, Joe A. Ross School, the new $8 million Kikiwak
Inn and the newly built Aseneskak Casino. OCN proudly
celebrates Opaskwayak Indian Days each summer during
the month of August a celebration of the history and
pride in the aboriginal culture.
The
Pas itself has a highly diversified economy
including agriculture, forestry, fishing, tourism, and
educational/health services. The famous Tolko, Manitoba
is world renown for its pulp and paper production and
has a work force of over 900. Keewatin Community College,
with a total enrollment of over 3,000, is the north's
focal point for post secondary education and is in the
process of being expanded into a University College.
Recreational opportunities range from indoor swimming
and bowling to some of the top fishing and hunting in
the West. The highlight of the area is beautiful Clearwater
Lake, one of the three true blue lakes in the world.
Each year during the third week of February, The Pas
celebrates during the Northern Manitoba Trappers' Festival-the
longest running festival in the province and second
longest running festival in the country.