Public consultations are currently in progress regarding a significant proposal for an all-seasons resort in Alberta’s picturesque Kananaskis Country. Announced in December, the Alberta government’s initiative aims to establish three new resort areas—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska—promising to generate thousands of jobs and inject billions into the provincial economy. This move marks a pioneering step, as these will be the first all-season resorts situated on provincial lands in Alberta, though it comes with adjustments to some existing provincial park boundaries.
Fortress Mountain: A New Chapter
An open house event took place at Mount Royal University in Calgary on Friday, focusing on the proposed developments at Fortress Mountain, a former ski area located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary. Once a bustling ski destination, Fortress Mountain has been largely dormant since its lift operations ceased in 2004, now offering only Cat skiing.
The revitalisation plans for Fortress Mountain encompass a wide array of developments, including hotels, gondolas, extensive trail networks, and potential private real estate opportunities. Proponents of the project assert that it will create over 1,000 jobs, fostering local economic growth.
David McKenna of Ridge North America, who is collaborating with Western Securities on the project, explained, “We’re currently gathering input from Albertans to determine what aspects they would like to see included or excluded from this development. It’s crucial for us to collect as much feedback as possible.”
Environmental Concerns Raised
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the economic prospects, considerable concern has been voiced regarding the potential ecological impacts of the year-round resort. Critics argue that the environmental assessment conducted thus far falls short of adequately addressing the implications for the local wildlife and plant ecosystems.
Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley highlighted the inadequacies of the current environmental evaluation. “The assessment failed to resolve many critical questions, leaving us unable to support the proposed development as it stands. Kananaskis Country already attracts 5 million visitors annually—outpacing Banff National Park by a million. The thought of increased transportation traffic and congestion during busy summer weekends is troubling,” he stated.
Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society further emphasised the ecological stakes, noting, “Fortress Mountain is situated in crucial wildlife habitat, home to multiple species, including grizzly bears and wolverines. Additionally, it overlaps with critical habitats for threatened bull trout.”
Next Steps in the Consultation Process
The next public consultation session is scheduled for February 23 in Edmonton, as stakeholders seek to balance the promise of economic benefits with the urgent need for environmental preservation. The ongoing discussions will play a vital role in shaping the future of Kananaskis Country and its natural heritage.
Why it Matters
As Alberta pursues ambitious plans to enhance its tourism sector through the establishment of all-season resorts, the balance between economic development and environmental stewardship remains a critical concern. With Kananaskis Country already experiencing significant visitor pressure, the decisions made during this consultation process will not only impact local wildlife and ecosystems but also set a precedent for future developments in the region. Engaging with the community and addressing environmental risks will be essential in ensuring that Alberta’s natural assets are preserved for generations to come.
