Response to SAGE letter (https://www.sage-environment.org/all-season-resorts-act-bill-35/)

Thank you for reaching out to share your concerns regarding Bill 35, the All Season Resorts Act. I appreciate the time and effort you have taken to advocate for Alberta’s natural spaces.

The All Season Resorts Act was introduced to establish a clear and streamlined approval process for resort development, ensuring investment certainty while balancing economic development, job creation, and environmental protection. The goal is to revitalize underutilized areas in a responsible and sustainable manner, mitigating environmental impacts and preventing unnecessary disturbance of Alberta’s pristine landscapes.

I want to emphasize that any development proposed under this Act will be subject to rigorous environmental reviews and meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities. All necessary approvals must be obtained before any project proceeds. Additionally, Bill 35 aligns with existing legislation, including the Public Lands Act and the Alberta Land Stewardship Act, ensuring that land use decisions remain in accordance with provincial land-use policies and regulations.

It is important to note that protected areas, such as provincial parks, recreation areas, wilderness areas, ecological reserves, and heritage rangelands, will not be automatically reclassified for development. These designations can only be changed through a decision by the Lieutenant Governor in Council or through amendments to existing legislation.

British Columbia implemented a similar All Season Resorts Policy decades ago, which has resulted in over 13 all-season resorts on provincial Crown land, contributing $2 billion annually to their economy while preserving natural spaces. Alberta’s approach is informed by this model, ensuring that economic growth in the tourism sector is achieved without compromising environmental responsibility.

Environmental oversight remains a priority. Any appeals regarding environmental decisions can be made through the Environmental Appeals Board under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act or the Public Lands Appeal Board under the Public Lands Act.

I recognize the importance of Alberta’s natural landscapes, and I appreciate your continued engagement on this matter. If you have any further concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.