Seventy-Five Years Along the Red Deer River

The Red Deer River area in Alberta has a rich history shaped by natural forces and human activity. The river originates in the Canadian Rockies and flows eastward, carving through the Badlands, where significant dinosaur fossils have been discovered. Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Blackfoot, and Assiniboine, lived along its banks for centuries, relying on its resources for sustenance and trade.

European exploration began in the 18th and 19th centuries, with fur traders and settlers moving into the region. In 1883, geologist Joseph Tyrrell discovered coal seams and dinosaur fossils near Drumheller, sparking scientific interest and economic development. The area later became known for agriculture, oil, and gas industries, contributing to Alberta’s growth.

The Red Deer River has also seen natural disasters, including the devastating 2013 Alberta floods, which affected communities along its course. Today, it remains a vital waterway, supporting wildlife, recreation, and historical sites like Dinosaur Provincial Park.