Public consultations are currently being held regarding an ambitious proposal to establish an all-seasons resort in Alberta’s picturesque Kananaskis Country. Announced by the Alberta government in December, this initiative aims to create three new resort areas—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—that are expected to generate thousands of jobs and produce significant economic benefits for the province.
A Vision for Fortress Mountain
The plans for Fortress Mountain, located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary, encompass a range of developments including hotels, gondolas, and extensive trail networks. Once a thriving ski destination, Fortress Mountain ceased operations in 2004 but has since transitioned to offering Cat skiing. The revitalisation project is anticipated to create over 1,000 jobs, according to project advocates.
A public open house took place on Friday at Mount Royal University in Calgary, providing a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of Fortress Mountain. David McKenna from Ridge North America, collaborating with Western Securities on the project, stated, “We’re currently gathering feedback from Albertans to understand the elements they wish to see included or excluded in the development. Our goal is to collect as much input as possible.”
Balancing Development and Conservation
Despite the potential economic uplift, the proposed resort has sparked a wave of concern among environmentalists and local residents. Critics argue that the year-round attraction could adversely affect local wildlife and ecosystems. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed his reservations, stating that the initial environmental assessment failed to address many critical questions. He emphasized the heavy visitor traffic Kananaskis Country already experiences—five million annually, outpacing even Banff National Park.
Thomson pointed out the potential for transportation logjams during peak seasons, raising alarms about the ecological implications of increased human activity in the area. Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society echoed these concerns, highlighting that Fortress Mountain overlaps with vital habitats for species such as grizzly bears and wolverines. Furthermore, critical habitats for threatened bull trout are also situated within the proposed resort’s boundaries.
Future Consultations and Community Engagement
The next public consultation is scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton, providing another opportunity for community members to voice their opinions on the proposed developments. As the project unfolds, balancing the economic aspirations of the province with the ecological integrity of Kananaskis Country remains a pressing challenge.
Environmental advocates are urging the Alberta government to take a more cautious approach, insisting that comprehensive assessments and public consultations are essential to safeguard the region’s unique biodiversity. As the discourse continues, the fate of Alberta’s natural landscapes hangs in the balance against the backdrop of economic development.
Why it Matters
The outcome of this proposed all-seasons resort in Kananaskis Country could set a significant precedent for future developments in Alberta’s natural environments. As the province grapples with the dual objectives of economic growth and environmental conservation, the decisions made today will resonate for generations. The balance between fostering tourism and protecting biodiversity is delicate, and the responses from local communities will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this beloved natural landscape.
