Public consultations are currently taking place regarding a significant development project in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country, which aims to transform the region into a year-round resort destination. Announced by the Alberta government in December, the initiative will establish three all-season resorts—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—marking a noteworthy first for provincial land in Alberta. The government claims these developments could generate thousands of jobs and contribute billions to the local economy.
An Overview of the Proposed Developments
The focus of the recent public discussions centres around Fortress Mountain, a former ski area located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary. Once a thriving ski destination, Fortress Mountain ceased operations in 2004 and currently offers limited Cat skiing services. Plans for revitalising the site include the construction of hotels, gondolas, extensive trail networks, and opportunities for private real estate development.
During an open house event held at Mount Royal University in Calgary, David McKenna from Ridge North America, collaborating with Western Securities on the project, highlighted the importance of community input. “What we’re doing right now is trying to identify the aspects that Albertans would like to see included or excluded from this project. We want to gather as much feedback as possible,” McKenna stated.
Economic Promises and Job Creation
Proponents of the resort assert that the project has the potential to create more than 1,000 jobs, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy. The Alberta government has positioned these developments as essential for economic diversification and job creation in the region, which has been historically reliant on the oil and gas sector.
However, the promise of economic prosperity is met with skepticism by some local stakeholders.
Environmental Concerns Raised
Opposition to the development is mounting, particularly from environmental groups who are apprehensive about the potential impact on local wildlife and ecosystems. Gareth Thomson of the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed his concerns regarding the adequacy of the environmental assessments conducted. “The environmental assessment that was done failed to answer many of those questions and is insufficient. Given that we don’t have answers to our questions, we cannot support the development as it’s proposed,” Thomson asserted.
Kananaskis Country currently attracts approximately five million visitors annually, surpassing even the National Park of Banff by one million visitors. Concerns about transportation congestion and environmental degradation have been voiced, particularly during peak periods.
Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society echoed these environmental worries, stating, “Fortress overlaps with important wildlife habitat for multiple species, including grizzly bears and wolverines. We also have critical habitat for threatened bull trout overlapping with the site.”
As the project progresses, the next round of public consultations is scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton, where stakeholders will have further opportunities to voice their opinions and concerns about the proposed developments.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-season resort development in Kananaskis Country represents a pivotal moment for the region, balancing the potential for economic growth against significant environmental considerations. As Alberta grapples with the dual pressures of job creation and conservation, the outcome of these discussions could set a precedent for future developments in ecologically sensitive areas. Striking the right balance will be crucial not only for the local wildlife but also for the sustainability of tourism and community well-being in Alberta.
