Public consultations are currently taking place regarding a proposed all-seasons resort in Alberta’s picturesque Kananaskis Country. Announced by the Alberta government last December, the initiative seeks to establish three new all-season resort areas—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska. Officials assert that the project could generate thousands of jobs and inject billions into the local economy. However, the plan has sparked significant debate, particularly concerning its environmental implications.
Resort Development Plans Unveiled
The proposed resort at Fortress Mountain, situated approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary, aims to revitalise a site that has been largely dormant since the ski lift’s closure in 2004. Currently, the area offers only Cat skiing, but the development plans include the construction of hotels, gondolas, extensive trail networks, and residential real estate.
On Friday, an open house was held at Mount Royal University in Calgary, providing an opportunity for developers to engage with the public. David McKenna of Ridge North America, who is collaborating with Western Securities on the project, expressed a desire to involve the community in shaping the development. “What we’re doing right now is trying to figure out exactly what Albertans would like to see as part of this project,” he stated. “We want to gather as much information as possible.”
Environmental Concerns Raised
While proponents of the all-season resort tout the potential economic benefits, numerous stakeholders are sounding alarms about the project’s environmental impact. Critics argue that the area is home to critical wildlife habitats and that the environmental assessments conducted thus far have fallen short of addressing these concerns.
Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley highlighted the overwhelming visitor traffic Kananaskis Country already experiences, noting that it attracts five million visitors annually—outpacing even Banff National Park. He raised concerns about the potential for increased congestion and the pressure this could place on local ecosystems, saying, “We cannot support the development as it’s proposed due to the unanswered questions regarding its environmental impact.”
Chloe Hahn of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the proposed development overlaps with critical habitats for various species, including grizzly bears and wolverines, as well as threatened bull trout. “The project’s location is not just about recreation; it also involves the survival of important wildlife,” she warned.
Next Steps in the Consultation Process
The next phase of public consultations is scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton. These meetings will provide further opportunities for community members to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the proposed developments. As the government continues to champion the economic potential of these resorts, the dialogue surrounding environmental stewardship and responsible development is likely to intensify.
Why it Matters
The ongoing discussions about the proposed all-seasons resort in Kananaskis highlight a critical intersection between economic growth and environmental sustainability. As Alberta seeks to enhance its tourism offerings, the decisions made in the coming months will not only shape the landscape of Kananaskis Country but will also set precedents for how the province balances development with ecological conservation. The outcome of this initiative could serve as a template for future projects across Western Canada, making it essential for all voices to be heard.
