Public consultations are currently taking place for an ambitious all-seasons resort planned for Fortress Mountain in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country. This initiative, announced by the provincial government last December, aims to establish three all-season resort areas — Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska — which officials claim will generate thousands of jobs and inject billions into the local economy. However, the project has sparked significant debate over its potential environmental impact.
Open House Draws Community Interest
On Friday, a public open house was hosted at Calgary’s Mount Royal University to gather community feedback on the proposed development at Fortress Mountain, located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary. Once a popular ski destination, Fortress Mountain has remained dormant since its ski lift closed in 2004, currently offering only Cat skiing. The revitalisation plans include constructing hotels, gondolas, and extensive trail networks, as well as opportunities for private real estate developments.
David McKenna, representing Ridge North America, which is collaborating with Western Securities for the project, emphasised the importance of public input. “What we’re doing right now is trying to pinpoint exactly what Albertans would like to see included in this project or excluded from it. We genuinely want to gather as much information as possible,” he stated during the discussions.
Job Creation and Economic Prospects
Proponents of the resort assert that the development will create over 1,000 jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Supporters believe that transforming Fortress Mountain into an all-season resort will not only enhance tourism but also position Alberta as a leading destination for year-round recreational activities. The government touts the potential economic benefits as a vital step toward diversifying the province’s economy.
However, while the economic arguments are compelling, the reality of the environmental impact cannot be overlooked.
Environmental Concerns Raised
Opposition to the project has emerged from various environmental groups, who warn of the risks posed to local wildlife and ecosystems. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed his apprehensions about the adequacy of the environmental assessments conducted thus far. “The assessment failed to address many critical questions. Given the lack of clear answers, we cannot support the development as it currently stands,” he remarked.
Kananaskis Country already attracts around five million visitors annually, surpassing even the more famous Banff National Park. Thomson highlighted the congestion issues that arise during peak times, illustrating the strain increased traffic could place on the region’s infrastructure.
Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society further elaborated on the ecological stakes involved. “Fortress overlaps with crucial wildlife habitats for various species, including grizzly bears and wolverine, which are already under threat. Moreover, the site contains critical habitat for endangered bull trout,” she noted, underscoring the need for careful consideration of the environmental implications of such a large-scale development.
Next Steps in Community Engagement
The next round of public consultations is set to take place in Edmonton on February 23, where further discussions are expected to inform the project’s planning and potential adjustments. These engagements are critical for ensuring that both the economic and environmental concerns are duly addressed.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-seasons resort at Fortress Mountain represents a crossroads for Alberta, balancing the promise of economic growth against the preservation of its cherished natural landscapes. As public consultations progress, it is vital that the voices of both proponents and opponents are heard, ensuring that any development undertaken prioritises environmental integrity alongside economic aspirations. The outcome of this project could set a significant precedent for future developments in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in Alberta’s evolving energy and tourism sectors.
