By Collin Gallant on September 26, 2017.
Medicine Hat News Maple Creek is the national Communities in Bloom winner for towns its size, with its landfill singled out by the body that promotes civic beautification. It’s the first time the town of about 2,100 residents has received the national award, competing with five other finalist that have fewer than 4,500 citizens. Special recognition was given to efforts in the town’s heritage district. The landfill offices fall under new categories that recognize environmental action and tidiness. It features “a pristine business front” with sorting facilities marked with potted plants, bird houses and recycled ornaments, according to judges. Judges also made note of efforts throughout the town towards appealing landscape, floral design, urban forestry and heritage conservation. Stonewall, Man., and Coburg, Ont., were national award winners in other population classes. In specialty categories, Brooks received special mention for completing a challenge regarding its composting centre, and Coaldale won a Canada 150 Award for medium-sized communities. 9