Public consultations are currently taking place regarding an ambitious proposal for an all-seasons resort in Alberta’s picturesque Kananaskis Country. The Alberta government has announced plans to establish three new all-season resort areas—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—asserting that these developments will generate significant economic benefits, including thousands of jobs and billions in revenue.
Proposed Developments and Economic Impact
The proposed resorts will mark a significant shift in how provincial lands are utilised, as this will be the first time all-season resorts are designated on public land in Alberta. As part of this transition, some park boundaries will be adjusted to accommodate the new developments. The Fortress Mountain area, which previously operated a ski hill until 2004 and now only offers Cat skiing, is at the forefront of this initiative. The revitalisation plans for the site include the construction of hotels, gondolas, expansive trail networks, and opportunities for private real estate development.
During an open house event held at Mount Royal University in Calgary, stakeholders discussed the potential for Fortress Mountain to create over 1,000 new jobs. David McKenna from Ridge North America, a key player in the development alongside Western Securities, emphasised the importance of community input: “We’re trying to determine exactly what features Albertans would like to see included in the project and what they would prefer to avoid. Gathering comprehensive feedback is our primary goal.”
Environmental Concerns Raised
Despite the economic promises, the proposal has sparked concern among environmental advocates regarding its potential impact on local ecosystems. Gareth Thomson of the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley voiced apprehensions about the project’s environmental assessments, stating that they fail to address critical questions regarding wildlife and plant life. “We cannot support the development as it’s currently proposed, given that we still lack answers to fundamental questions,” he asserted. Kananaskis Country already attracts upwards of five million visitors each year—surpassing even the busy Banff National Park—raising concerns about potential traffic congestion and environmental degradation.
Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society highlighted the serious implications for local wildlife, noting that Fortress Mountain overlaps with vital habitats for several species, including grizzly bears and wolverines. Additionally, the site is critical for the threatened bull trout, further complicating the potential for development.
Future Consultations Scheduled
The next round of public consultations is set to take place on February 23 in Edmonton, providing another opportunity for community members to voice their opinions and concerns about the proposed all-season resort. These discussions will be crucial in shaping the project’s trajectory and addressing the environmental implications highlighted by local activists.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-season resorts in Kananaskis Country represent a significant economic opportunity for Alberta, potentially creating jobs and attracting tourism. However, this development raises critical questions about environmental stewardship and the balance between economic growth and ecological preservation. With Kananaskis already a popular destination, careful consideration must be given to how development will affect the region’s fragile ecosystems and wildlife habitats. As Albertans weigh the potential benefits against environmental costs, these consultations will play a vital role in determining the future of this beloved natural landscape.
