Turtleford, Saskatchewan, is a charming town nestled in the Rural Municipality of Mervin No. 499. Conveniently located on Highway 26 near the intersection with Highway 3 and Highway 303, Turtleford is easily accessible from the larger communities of North Battleford and Lloydminster. The town is beautifully situated with the Turtle River running through it, and the nearby Bright Sand Lake and Turtle Lake adding to its natural allure.
Turtleford, Saskatchewan, is home to the nation's largest turtle statue, affectionately named Ernie. Standing at over eight feet tall, "Ernie the Turtle" is a sight to behold, located on Hwy 26 near the southern edge of town. This unique attraction adds a touch of whimsy to Turtleford and is a must-visit for tourists.
Turtleford, Saskatchewan, is not just known for its giant turtle statue. It also serves as a breeding ground for a small vulnerable songbird called Sprague's pipit. The northern Great Plains of North America, including Turtleford, are amongst the bird's breeding spots, making the town a significant location for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Turtleford, Saskatchewan, has a rich history dating back to its first settlement in 1907 and 1908. The town was named for its proximity to the early river crossing (or ford) on the Turtle River. A post office was established in 1913, and by 1914, the ongoing extension of a Canadian Northern Railway (CNoR) branch from North Battleford had reached Turtleford.
By 1915, Turtleford had grown into a major centre for the area population, with dozens of businesses opening their doors. The North Battleford - Turtleford Branch of the CNoR, which primarily serviced the grain elevators used by the farmers northwest of North Battleford, was operational until 2005. The branch served several communities and ran alongside Saskatchewan Highway 26 from Prince to St. Walburg.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Turtleford, Saskatchewan, had a population of 503 living in 213 of its 228 total private dwellings. This represented a change of 1.4% from its 2016 population of 496. With a land area of 1.66 km2 (0.64 sq mi), Turtleford had a population density of 303.0/km2 (784.8/sq mi) in 2021. This small but vibrant community continues to thrive, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and community spirit.
