Public engagement is ramping up regarding a proposed all-seasons resort in Alberta’s picturesque Kananaskis Country. The provincial government revealed plans in December to establish three all-season resort areas, which are projected to generate thousands of jobs and inject billions into the local economy. This initiative marks a significant shift, as Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska will be the first designated all-season resorts on provincial lands. However, this move also involves modifications to certain provincial park boundaries.
Plans for Fortress Mountain
The focus of recent discussions has been Fortress Mountain, a former ski area located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary. Once a thriving ski destination, Fortress Mountain ceased lift operations in 2004 and has since only offered Cat skiing. An open house event held at Mount Royal University in Calgary on Friday invited the public to learn about revitalisation plans for the area, which aim to include hotels, gondolas, trail networks, and private real estate developments.
Proponents of the project, including David McKenna from Ridge North America, are keen to gather public input on what elements of the development residents would support or oppose. “What we’re doing right now is trying to figure out exactly where the points are that Albertans generally would like to see as part of this project or not see as part of this project,” McKenna stated, emphasising the importance of community feedback in shaping the future of the resort.
Economic Opportunities and Job Creation
Supporters of the project assert that the development could create over 1,000 jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. The proposed all-season resort aims to attract visitors year-round, diversifying the economic benefits that the region currently derives from seasonal tourism.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Alberta government to enhance the province’s tourism sector, which has faced challenges in recent years. By drawing attention to Kananaskis Country as a year-round destination, the government hopes to elevate Alberta’s profile in the competitive tourism market.
Environmental Concerns
Despite the optimistic economic outlook, the project has sparked considerable concern among environmental advocates regarding its potential impact on local ecosystems. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed reservations about the adequacy of the environmental assessments conducted thus far. “The environmental assessment that was done failed to answer many of those questions and is insufficient,” he remarked, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the project’s effects on wildlife and plant life.
Kananaskis Country already attracts around 5 million visitors annually, which is notably more than the number of visitors to Banff National Park. With this level of traffic, concerns regarding transportation congestion and ecological strain are particularly pressing. Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society pointed out that the proposed site overlaps with critical habitats for various species, including grizzly bears and wolverines, as well as threatened bull trout.
Upcoming Consultations
The next round of public consultations is slated for February 23 in Edmonton, providing another opportunity for residents to voice their opinions on the proposed developments. As stakeholders from both sides of the debate prepare for the discussions, the future of this project hangs in the balance.
Why it Matters
The proposed transformation of Kananaskis Country into an all-seasons resort underscores a pivotal moment for Alberta’s tourism and environmental stewardship. While the promise of economic growth and job creation is enticing, it raises critical questions about balancing development with the preservation of Alberta’s natural heritage. The outcome of this project could set a precedent for future tourism initiatives in sensitive ecological areas, making the forthcoming consultations vital for ensuring that the voices of both economic advocates and environmental guardians are heard.