Overview
- Developers can begin Indigenous consultation and public engagement now, with applications expected within one to two months and a 150‑day review before decisions.
- The province projects up to 24,000 jobs, $4 billion in visitor spending and $3.6 billion in GDP over the next decade if proposals proceed.
- Officials stress that designation is not project approval, and any development must satisfy the Public Lands Act, Water Act and Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act with full environmental assessments.
- Minor park boundary adjustments place long‑used ski terrain under the proper regulator, affecting less than 0.03% of Alberta’s parks system.
- Conservation groups warn that year‑round operations could increase visitation pressure and wildlife impacts, as the government highlights opportunities for Indigenous economic participation.