The Rural Municipality of Hanover has a population that is ten years younger than the national average.

New Census data was released this week, showing Hanover's average age to be 31, which is up slightly from the 2011 Census when it was 30.6. The provincial average is 39.2 years, while the national average is 41 years. Only about 7 percent of Hanover's population is 65 years of age and older.

Hanover Reeve Stan Toews says having a younger population is always good news.

"Because these people they work, they recreate, they add to the economy," explains Toews.

But, he says younger people want more recreation opportunities and are more fussy about Internet and cellular availability.

"It means that obviously, we have the services and things that are drawing young families to our municipality," says Lisa Baldwin, Manager of Recreation and Community Services.

But she says it also means they must make sure services and infrastructure are in place for young families. As it turns out, Hanover has just completed a recreation feasibility study which looks at the potential for new rec facilities in the municipality. Hanover council is trying to determine whether to build a new arena in Grunthal, expand the arena in Mitchell or construct a community centre in Blumenort.

"We have prioritized recreation over our last few strategic planning sessions," notes Baldwin. " I think our council does a good job of that."

The RM of La Broquerie also has an average age of 31, with only 6 percent of their population being 65 years and older. Reeve Lewis Weiss says La Broquerie is young and vibrant, which is a good thing.

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