Located in the heart of Southern Alberta, Lethbridge County is the epitome of natural beauty, featuring vast stretches of golden prairie fields, the river valleys of the Old Man and Little Bow, and historic coulees. In the 2016 Census its population was 10,353. The County surrounds the City of Lethbridge and is known as the business and agricultural service centre for Southern Alberta. The County is served by two irrigation districts providing a stable water supply and recreational opportunities. The economy is primarily agricultural, including 500 km² area of intensive livestock operations. The County is also an important centre for research, particularly as it relates to crop production, land use and animal husbandry. There are many recreational opportunities in the County's lakes, campgrounds, golf courses, and other attractions.