Special Areas are a unique form of local government in Alberta covering parts of southeastern Alberta that were severely affected by drought and economic hardship in the 1930s. When many farmers abandoned their land and local municipalities became unviable, the provincial government created Special Areas under provincial administration rather than elected local councils. Today, the Special Areas Board (appointed by the province) manages these lands covering about 2.5 million acres, providing municipal services and managing public lands within the region. Special Areas represent a distinctive Alberta approach where provincial administration replaced conventional municipal government due to historical circumstances. The areas continue operating under this unique structure, though with some evolution toward more local input over time.