Public consultations have commenced regarding a proposed all-seasons resort in Alberta’s picturesque Kananaskis Country. The provincial government unveiled plans in December to establish three new all-seasons resort areas, which it claims will generate thousands of jobs and inject billions into the local economy. The sites in question—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—will mark Alberta’s first all-seasons resorts located on provincial land, although this transition entails adjustments to existing provincial park boundaries.
Community Engagement in the Planning Process
An open house at Mount Royal University in Calgary on Friday served as a platform for community discussions about the development plans for Fortress Mountain, a former ski hill situated approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary. Having ceased operations in 2004, the site now primarily offers Cat skiing. The revitalisation proposal includes the construction of hotels, gondolas, extensive trail networks, and opportunities for private real estate development.
David McKenna from Ridge North America, collaborating with Western Securities on the project, emphasised the importance of community input. “What we’re doing right now is trying to identify the aspects that Albertans would like to see included or excluded from this project. We genuinely want to gather as much information as possible,” he stated.
Economic Promises vs. Environmental Concerns
Proponents of the resort project assert that it will create over 1,000 jobs, which is a significant boon for the regional economy. However, opposition is mounting, with local advocates raising alarm over potential ecological impacts. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed his concerns about the adequacy of the environmental assessment conducted thus far.
“The environmental assessment that was done failed to answer many of those questions and is insufficient. We don’t have answers to any of our questions, so we cannot support the development as it is proposed,” Thomson explained. Notably, Kananaskis Country already attracts around 5 million visitors annually—more than Banff National Park by a million—raising concerns about the additional traffic and its environmental repercussions.
Wildlife Habitat at Risk
Environmental advocates are particularly worried about the resort’s implications for local wildlife. Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society highlighted the overlap of the proposed development area with crucial habitats for several species, including grizzly bears and wolverines.
“We also have critical habitat for threatened bull trout overlapping with the site,” Hahn noted. The potential disruption to these ecosystems has intensified calls for a more comprehensive environmental review before any development proceeds.
Next Steps in the Consultation Process
Following the recent open house, the next round of public consultations is scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton. Stakeholders from both sides of the debate are urged to participate, as the outcome of these discussions may significantly shape the future of Kananaskis Country.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-seasons resort in Kananaskis Country embodies a crucial intersection of economic development and environmental stewardship. While the promise of job creation and economic stimulation is enticing, the potential consequences for local ecosystems and wildlife cannot be overlooked. As Alberta navigates its path forward, it faces the challenge of balancing ambitious tourism initiatives with the preservation of its natural heritage—an endeavour that will require thoughtful consideration and active community engagement.
