Public consultations have commenced for an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming Alberta’s Kananaskis Country into a year-round resort destination. Announced by the provincial government last December, the plans involve the establishment of three all-season resort areas—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—with the expectation of generating thousands of jobs and delivering significant economic benefits to the region.
Transforming Fortress Mountain
The proposed redevelopment of Fortress Mountain, located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary, is at the forefront of these plans. Once a bustling ski area, the mountain has seen its lifts remain dormant since 2004, only offering cat skiing in recent years. An open house event held on Friday at Mount Royal University in Calgary allowed community members to engage with developers and express their opinions on the project.
David McKenna of Ridge North America, collaborating with Western Securities to spearhead the project, highlighted the importance of community input. “What we’re doing right now is trying to pinpoint what Albertans want to see included or excluded from this development,” he remarked. “We aim to gather as much feedback as possible.”
Job Creation and Economic Impact
Proponents of the project are optimistic about the economic ramifications, asserting that the revitalisation of Fortress Mountain could generate over 1,000 jobs. The vision for the resort includes the construction of hotels, gondolas, and extensive trail networks, as well as opportunities for private real estate development. This initiative is touted as a means to bolster local tourism and economy, promising to bring billions in benefits to the province.
Environmental Concerns Arise
However, the plans have sparked considerable concern among environmental advocates regarding their potential impact on local wildlife and ecosystems. Gareth Thomson, a representative from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, expressed skepticism over the adequacy of the environmental assessments conducted thus far. “Many critical questions remain unanswered, and without clarity, we cannot support the development as it stands,” he stated, noting that Kananaskis already experiences heavy visitor traffic, welcoming five million guests annually—outpacing even Banff National Park.
Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the development overlaps with crucial wildlife habitats for species such as grizzly bears and wolverines. “We also have critical habitat for threatened bull trout overlapping with the site,” she added, highlighting the delicate balance between development and conservation.
Next Steps in Public Consultation
The Alberta government is committed to ongoing dialogue with local communities, with the next round of public consultations scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton. This engagement is crucial as stakeholders navigate the complexities of balancing economic growth and environmental stewardship in the picturesque Kananaskis region.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-season resorts in Kananaskis Country represent a pivotal moment for Alberta, where the promise of economic revitalisation must be weighed against the ecological integrity of this cherished landscape. As the province grapples with the implications of such developments, the outcome will not only influence local communities but will also set a precedent for future projects across Canada. The challenge lies in ensuring that Alberta’s natural heritage is preserved while exploring avenues for sustainable economic growth.
