MLA Miranda Rosin wholeheartedly endorses K-Country pass

Banff-Kananaskis MLA Miranda Rosin has endorsed the new Kananaskis Country Conservation Pass that comes into effect on June 1.

"It's good news for local municipalities, businesses, and recreation groups alike," said Rosin, citing a few of the groups supporting the introduction of the pass.

She was pleased that up to $1 million will be spent upgrading the Canmore Nordic Centre so it will once again qualify as a location for Biathalon World Cup races, She calls it a world-class training facility that has allowed Canmore to become home to more Olympians per capita than anywhere in Canada.

"I first approached MInister Nixon and his department about this project in 2019, and have lobbied quite literally anyone who would lend me an ear since then."

She believes everyone wins from revenue generated from the passes.

"Whether you're an environmentalist, a camper, a hiker, a golfer, a kayaker, or just general outdoor enthusiast or maybe even a future Olympian in training, today's announcement to stand and protect our beautiful Kananaskis Country while funding design work for a complete nordic centre upgrade is amazing news."

The Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) says the pass is further evidence of the UCP government’s commitment to a user-fee model for funding parks.

"The evidence suggests that vehicle fees deter people from visiting parks," states Dr. Ian Urquhart, AWA conservation director, "And, by not applying this bad idea to all provincial parks, the Kananaskis fee will likely shift visitation pressures to other parks in the region.”

The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAW) Southern Alberta says the revenue generated must result in increased environmental protections and services that benefit Albertans and nature.

“Public comments indicated Albertans want to prioritize environmental protection, enforcement, and non-motorized recreation. These priorities must be clearly reflected in the management of both parks and public land moving forward,” states Becky Best-Bertwistle, conservation engagement coordinator at CPAWS Southern Alberta.  

The announcement follows the Alberta Government's introduction of random camping fees on Crown land in the Eastern Slopes.

It was hinted, fees for off-highway vehicle operators will follow shortly.