Public consultations are currently taking place regarding a proposed all-seasons resort in Alberta’s Kananaskis Country. This initiative, announced by the Alberta government last December, aims to establish three all-season resort areas—Castle, Fortress, and Nakiska. The province claims these developments could catalyse the creation of thousands of jobs and generate billions in economic benefits. However, the initiative has raised significant environmental concerns among local stakeholders.
Proposed Developments at Fortress Mountain
The plans for Fortress Mountain, located approximately 125 kilometres west of Calgary, include various amenities such as hotels, gondolas, and an extensive network of trails. Once a thriving ski destination, Fortress Mountain has not operated its ski lifts since 2004, currently offering only Cat skiing.
An open house event held at Mount Royal University in Calgary on Friday sought to gather public input on the proposed developments. David McKenna of Ridge North America, who is collaborating with Western Securities on the project, emphasised the importance of community feedback. “What we’re doing right now is trying to figure out exactly where the points are that Albertans would like to see as part of this project or not see. We really want to gather as much information as we can,” he stated.
Economic Benefits vs. Environmental Concerns
While proponents of the resort highlight the potential for over 1,000 new jobs, opposition voices raise alarms about the environmental implications. Gareth Thomson from the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley expressed concerns regarding the adequacy of the environmental assessments conducted so far. “The environmental assessment that was done failed to answer many of those questions and is insufficient,” he remarked. With Kananaskis Country already welcoming around 5 million visitors annually—exceeding the numbers seen in Banff National Park—the impact of increased traffic and overcrowding is a pressing issue.
Chloe Hahn from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society also voiced her worries, pointing out that the Fortress area overlaps with crucial wildlife habitats. “Fortress overlaps with important wildlife habitat for multiple species, including grizzly bears and wolverines. We also have critical habitat for threatened bull trout overlapping with the site,” she noted.
Future Consultations Scheduled
The next public consultation session is set for February 23 in Edmonton, providing further opportunities for community engagement and feedback on the project. As discussions continue, the balance between economic development and environmental protection remains a central theme.
Why it Matters
The proposed all-seasons resort in Kananaskis Country encapsulates a broader debate about development in natural areas. While the economic prospects could provide significant benefits, the potential environmental ramifications cannot be overlooked. Stakeholders are faced with the challenge of finding a sustainable path forward that respects both the region’s ecological integrity and the economic aspirations of Alberta. As the consultations progress, the voices of local communities and environmental advocates will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this beloved landscape.
