Spatial consequences of a regional development program : some insights from the Interlake of Manitoba

Abstract

Appraisals of the spatial effectiveness of Canadian government rural development programs are too infrequently undertaken. Geography can be a useful component in this respect, because its concepts can be successfully employed to describe spatial variations in the rate of growth which result from such programs. This study examines the spatial distribution of agricultural improvements precipitated by the Fund for Rural Economic Development (FRED) in the Interlake region of Manitoba. Consequently, a methodology is employed which considers both spatial variations in the rate of growth, and the factors responsible for existing trends in growth. Findings from this study reveal that some degree of success has been attained through FRED's agricultural development program. However, the magnitude of FRED's achievements did vary intra-regionally, and this was influenced by such factors as ethnicity and the processes of urbanization and suburbanization. In this thesis, it is recommended that future research must be undertaken to determine the long-term benefits of FRED's agricultural programs in the Interlake. To this end, this study can serve as a comparative base for considering future happenings in the region's agricultural structure. Furthermore, it is become beneficial to those who feel the need for further geographically oriented government development planning.