Profit or preservation? Alberta’s Crown land at a crossroads

The proposed changes to Crown land resort development in Alberta has reignited a familiar debate: economic growth versus environmental preservation. The All-Season Resort Act, or Bill 35, would make it easier for private developers to build all-season resorts on Crown land. On the surface, the changes seem like it could be a win for Alberta’s economy. Advocates highlight its potential to boost local tourism, generate jobs, and inject much-needed revenue into surrounding communities. However, the risk to Alberta’s ecological legacy far outweighs these benefits. Preserving Crown land for future generations must take precedence over short-term economic gain, as sacrificing natural spaces for profit is a choice Alberta cannot afford to make.

Alberta’s natural landscapes are more than just picturesque backdrops. They are vital ecosystems that sustain biodiversity and support human well-being. Conservationists warn that large-scale development on Crown land could irreversibly disrupt habitats, threatening wildlife and altering the delicate balance that defines these spaces. Such risks are not abstract. Resort developments elsewhere have shown that even with mitigation efforts, the cumulative impact on ecosystems can be profound and lasting.

The tension between development and conservation is not new, but the stakes are higher than ever in the face of climate change. Alberta, like the rest of the world, is grappling with the need to transition to a more sustainable future. Sacrificing pristine land for short-term economic gain seems counterintuitive in an era that demands environmental stewardship. The long-term costs of environmental degradation often outweigh the immediate benefits of development. Once disrupted, ecosystems can take decades, if not centuries, to recover — if recovery is even possible.

Yet, outright rejection of economic opportunities is not the solution either. Alberta’s economy, which is deeply tied to industries like oil and gas, is under pressure to diversify. Projects like the proposed resort offer a chance to stimulate new sectors, including eco-tourism. However, this diversification cannot come at the expense of the province’s environmental heritage. The challenge lies in finding a sustainable path forward. A path that allows for growth without compromising the integrity of Alberta’s landscapes.

Sustainability must be more than a buzzword in discussions about this bill. Transparent environmental assessments, community consultations, and the implementation of robust ecological safeguards are non-negotiable prerequisites. Moreover, the government and developers must explore innovative approaches that prioritize environmental harmony. For instance, low-impact infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and measures to protect wildlife corridors could help minimize the environmental impact.

The question Albertans face is not just about whether any specific project should proceed, but about what kind of legacy they wish to leave behind. Crown land represents a shared resource, a public good that belongs not only to current generations but also to those who will inherit it. Every decision about its use should reflect a commitment to balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability.

In weighing the merits of the proposed changes to entice resort developments, Alberta has an opportunity to redefine how it approaches development in sensitive areas. Success will not be measured solely by economic returns. It will also be determined by the province’s ability to safeguard its natural treasures while fostering growth. Alberta must lead in harmonizing economic ambition with environmental responsibility, rejecting a false choice between progress and preservation.