(Supplied by Lake Louise Ski Resort)

By David Opinko

Total ski areas at Lake Louise to be reduced by nearly 30%

Sep 7, 2019 | 6:00 AM

LAKE LOUISE, AB – Parks Canada has announced several changes to the Lake Louise Ski Area in their new Long-Range Plan.

The changes being announced are done in the name of conservation and enhancing visitor experiences, as well as creating long-term business certainty for Banff National Park and the Lake Louise Ski Area.

There will be a permanent reduction in the ski area leasehold by almost 30%, or 669 acres.

According to Parks Canada, the land is “sensitive alpine wildlife habitat for grizzly bear, wolverine, mountain goat and other species, and will be designated as protected wilderness.”

As well, officials will work to relocate summer hiking and interpretation to a higher-elevation area to support improved habitats for grizzly bears.

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A “significant reduction” of water withdrawal will be made from the Pipestone River and Corral Creek during periods of low flow.

“The Long-Range Plan identifies a number of measures that will be undertaken to reduce the ski area’s dependence on water withdrawal during low-flow periods, including the development of water reservoirs,” reads the release from Parks Canada.

The Lake Louise Ski Area group will make investments into the protection of white park pine, a species at risk.

“Parks Canada recognizes downhill skiing is a cornerstone to winter tourism in Banff and Jasper national parks. Carefully planned and managed ski areas make the protection of ecology a priority while providing meaningful visitor experiences and contributing to the conservation objectives of Parks Canada.”

The full Lake Louise Ski Area Long Range Plan can be viewed online here.