Public consultations are currently in progress concerning a proposed all-seasons resort in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Launched in December by the Alberta government, this initiative aims to establish three new all-season resort areas in the province, with promises of creating thousands of jobs and generating significant economic benefits.
New Resort Designations and Economic Promises
The proposed resorts at Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska will be the first of their kind on provincial lands in Alberta. The government asserts that these changes will not only enhance tourism but also stimulate local economies, claiming the potential to create over 1,000 jobs. However, these developments come with alterations to some provincial park boundaries, raising questions about the balance between economic growth and environmental preservation.
On Friday, an open house at Mount Royal University in Calgary attracted numerous stakeholders eager to learn about the plans for Fortress Mountain, a once-thriving ski hill located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary. After closing its ski lift in 2004, the area now only accommodates Cat skiing. The revitalisation plans include the construction of hotels, gondolas, extensive trail networks, and opportunities for private real estate sales.
Community Engagement and Feedback
David McKenna from Ridge North America, collaborating with Western Securities on the resort’s development, emphasised the importance of community input. “What we’re doing right now is trying to pinpoint what aspects of this project Albertans would like to see included or excluded,” he noted. The team is committed to gathering comprehensive feedback from residents to refine their proposal.
Despite the optimistic economic outlook, not all community members share the same enthusiasm. Environmental advocates have expressed significant unease regarding the impact of the proposed attractions on local ecosystems. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley remarked that the environmental assessment conducted thus far has not adequately addressed many critical questions. “Given that we don’t have answers to any of our inquiries, we cannot support the development as it stands,” he stated, highlighting the area’s existing burden of 5 million annual visitors—outpacing even Banff National Park.
Wildlife Concerns
The potential threat to local wildlife has emerged as a central point of contention. Chloe Hahn of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society pointed out that the proposed resort overlaps with vital habitats for several species, including grizzly bears and wolverines. Furthermore, the site is home to critical habitats for threatened bull trout, raising alarm among conservationists.
“The environmental implications are profound,” Hahn warned, stressing the need for thorough studies before any developments proceed. The influx of visitors, combined with the newly proposed infrastructures, could exacerbate existing challenges related to traffic and habitat disruption, particularly during peak seasons.
Looking Ahead
The next opportunity for public input will occur on February 23 in Edmonton, providing another platform for residents and stakeholders to voice their opinions. As discussions continue, it remains crucial for both developers and the government to consider the long-term environmental impacts alongside the economic benefits promised by the all-seasons resort initiative.
Why it Matters
The proposed development in Kananaskis Country represents a critical juncture for Alberta, balancing the need for economic growth with the imperative of environmental stewardship. As the province seeks to attract tourism and create jobs, the potential consequences for local wildlife and ecosystems cannot be overlooked. This initiative serves as a vital reminder of the intricate relationship between development and nature, urging a careful examination of how we can harness economic opportunities while safeguarding Alberta’s natural heritage for future generations.
