Plans for a new all-seasons resort in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country are sparking both excitement and apprehension as public consultations commence. Announced in December by the provincial government, the initiative aims to develop three all-season resorts—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—promising significant economic benefits and job creation. However, the shift in land designation raises critical environmental questions that stakeholders are eager to address.
Proposed Developments and Economic Promises
The all-year-round resort at Fortress Mountain, located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary, is expected to revitalise a site that has lain dormant since the ski lift’s closure in 2004. The project envisions a transformation that includes hotels, gondolas, extensive trail networks, and opportunities for private real estate sales. Proponents, including David McKenna from Ridge North America, project that the development could generate over 1,000 jobs, providing a substantial boost to the local economy.
During an open house held at Mount Royal University in Calgary, McKenna emphasised the importance of community feedback. “We’re trying to understand what aspects the public would like to see included or excluded from the project. Gathering as much input as possible is essential,” he stated.
Environmental Concerns Emerge
Despite the economic optimism, the proposed development has ignited concerns regarding its potential impact on the region’s delicate ecosystems. Critics highlight that Kananaskis Country already attracts an impressive five million visitors annually, outpacing even Banff National Park. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed his apprehensions, noting, “The environmental assessment conducted was insufficient and failed to address many crucial questions. Without clear answers, we cannot support this development as it stands.”
The potential disruption to local wildlife habitats has also been raised. Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society pointed out that the resort’s location overlaps with vital habitats for species such as grizzly bears and wolverines, as well as critical habitats for threatened bull trout.
Future Engagements and Next Steps
The dialogue surrounding the development is set to continue, with additional public consultations scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton. As discussions progress, the government and developers are tasked with balancing the promise of economic growth against the imperative of environmental stewardship.
The dual nature of this venture—economic opportunity versus ecological responsibility—will remain at the forefront of community and stakeholder deliberations.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-seasons resort in Kananaskis Country embodies the complex dynamics between economic development and environmental preservation. As Alberta seeks to harness its natural beauty for tourism, the decisions made now will shape the ecological landscape for generations. Striking a balance will be crucial, not only for the prosperity of local communities but also for the protection of Alberta’s rich biodiversity. The outcome of these consultations could set a precedent for how the province approaches similar projects in the future, making this a pivotal moment in Alberta’s commitment to sustainable development.
