Big decisions are unfolding in our region, from large-scale development proposals to the everyday choices that shape our community’s future. Whether you’re staying informed about regional land use, upgrading your home or building, or attending local events, there are many ways to be part of building a resilient Bow Valley. This month’s newsletter highlights opportunities to learn, engage, and take action.
Proposed Fortress Mountain Resort: Why It Matters
The proposed Fortress Mountain Resort would be located in the Kananaskis Valley, just 25 km from Dead Man’s Flats and 32 km from Canmore. The Bow and Kananaskis Valleys are part of the same connected ecosystem, linked by the low-elevation Skogan Pass.
The proposal outlines a year-round resort community with hotels, gondolas, retail shops, private real estate, and extensive summer and winter recreation uses, accommodating up to 10,000 visitors per day and creating a development footprint more than double the size of Panorama Resort in British Columbia.
Our Concerns
We’ve taken a close look — and we have concerns.
The project could significantly change the character of Kananaskis Country.
There may be serious impacts to wildlife and species at risk, including Grizzly bear, Wolverine, Whitebark pine, and Bull trout.
The Environmental Assessment does not appear to fully consider cumulative effects in this ecologically important valley.
Want to Learn More and Take Action?
To learn more or share your perspective, we have two suggestions:
Attend a Fortress Listening Session
📍Miner’s Union Hall (728 7 St, Canmore)
📅 Tuesday, February 17
🕑 2:00 pm – 7:00 pmVisit our website to learn more about the proposal, additional session dates, and ways to take action.
Community decisions shape long-term climate and biodiversity outcomes. Staying informed is the first step.
Town of Canmore Incentive Programs
The following incentive programs are offered by the Town of Canmore. The Biosphere Institute supports awareness and community engagement around these opportunities, but applications are submitted directly to the Town.
Residential Incentives 🏠
Roof Replacement Incentive
50% of roof replacement costs using Class A fire-resistant materials, up to $5,000 and $10,000 for condo buildings
Requires a FireSmart Home Assessment completed within the last three years recommending roof replacement
$1,250 incentive for Canmore homeowners installing a rooftop solar photovoltaic system
Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP)
Financing available for energy-efficient upgrades
Can be combined with the Residential Solar Incentive
Commercial and Multi-Family Incentives 🏢
Commercial & Multi-Family Solar
$750 per kW, up to $20,000
Solar installer quote required
75% of installation costs for a publicly available Level 2 or Level 3 charger, up to $10,000
Charger must be shared or publicly accessible
75% of the cost to hire a professional engineer or master electrician to develop an EV Readiness Plan, up to $5,000
Looking for Other Funding Opportunities?
Want to explore additional municipal, provincial, or federal grants?
Visit our ClimateSmart Resources webpage for a curated list of programs, funding opportunities, and tools to support your climate and energy projects.
Upcoming Events
Earth Talk: Growing Food Sovereignty at Home and in the Community
📅 February 23 | 7:00pm
📍 Canmore Public Library
Join Michelle Backhouse from the Bow Valley Food Alliance for an engaging session on food sovereignty and community resilience. Learn how food choices affect personal and planetary health, explore practical ways to use your voice locally, and participate in a hands-on sprouting demonstration using simple household materials. Participants are encouraged to bring a small jar, as supplies are limited. Click here to Register.
Winter EV Driving VIP Experience
📅 Running until April 1, 2026
📍 Bow Valley
The Winter EV Driving VIP Experience brings free, one-on-one electric vehicle test drives to Bow Valley residents. Powered by Plug’n Drive and presented by the Biosphere Institute of the Bow Valley, this brand-agnostic experience connects participants with knowledgeable local EV Ambassadors who understand winter driving conditions in Alberta. Test drive a new EV or plug-in hybrid, visit local charging stations, and learn how winter performance, route planning, and charging networks work in real-world mountain conditions. Click here to book your appointment