4 GENERAL PLANNING REQUIREMENTS

Transcription

1 4 GENERAL PLANNING REQUIREMENTS The 2008 Site Guidelines contain a number of general planning requirements that Ski Marmot Basin and Parks Canada have agreed will form part of any long range plan, regardless of the specific project components being advanced. This is in recognition that each long range plan must serve as a wholly independent document, although there is recognition that successive long range plans may build upon each other. Section 4 of this Long Range Plan addresses the following general planning requirements: Water Management Strategy; Limits to Growth and Resort Balancing; Adequacy of the Supporting Infrastructure; Architectural Theme; Marmot Basin Specific Best Management Practices ; Run Improvement and Vegetation Management Strategy; Assessment of Visitor Accommodation; Staff Housing Strategy; Heritage Tourism Strategy; and Environmental Management and Monitoring Strategy. 4.1 WATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGY AND WATER PERMIT REQUIREMENTS 41 The Water Management Strategy is a part of the Long Range Plan submission that proposes changes to the ski area operations to support an ultimate capacity of 6,500 skiers per day. This Strategy was prepared based on the Marmot Basin Site Guidelines and SEA Guidance for the Preparation of a Water Management Strategy (Parks Canada 2012). A summary of that strategy is contained in section of this document and the complete version in Ski Marmot Basin: 2014 Long Range Plan Supplemental Volume. Ski Marmot Basin is required to obtain a Water Permit under Section 18 (1) of The National Parks General Regulations. The Marmot Basin Water Management Strategy and the Detailed Impact Analysis have been prepared to address, in part, the requirements for application of the permit. Anomalies encountered with the gathered water use data, preclude no more than an approximation of the existing water withdrawal volumes. Ski Marmot Basin, as a consequence, 41 Ski Marmot Basin retained Golder Associates to prepare the Water Management Strategy. 76

2 will seek an interim Water Permit from Parks Canada. A longer-term permit will be sought following up to three years of accurate metering and monitoring. The application for the long-term permit will address the total volumes of water requested to be withdrawn, the purposes (both existing and proposed snowmaking, and domestic use), seasonal withdrawal requirements, and options to reduce water withdrawal to the maximum extent possible. The monitoring and reporting would occur as part of the proposed Environmental Management and Reporting System that is described in Section 4.11 of this Long Range Plan. 4.2 LIMITS TO GROWTH AND RESORT BALANCING In the past, Parks Canada has based the management of ski areas primarily on the out-of-base capacity of chairlifts. Subsequently, it was recognized that the approach had limited value in managing national park ski areas in a manner that ensured ecological integrity or supported quality skiing experiences. As part of the 2008 Site Guidelines, therefore, a permanent design capacity of 6,500 skiers per day was established for managing growth at Marmot Basin. This was determined through an analysis of ecological considerations, ski terrain capabilities and limitations, industry standards and compatibility with Ski Marmot Basin s goals. This design capacity is the basis for consideration of future development proposals. Negotiated and permanent growth limits were established for the Developed Area, ski terrain and commercial space (2008 Site Guidelines, sec.5.3.2, pg. 24). These limits are: Developed Area: Permanent Growth Limit ha; Ski Terrain - Permanent Growth Limit ha; and Commercial Space: Permanent Growth Limit - 6,270 m 2. This first long range plan submission must demonstrate that the proposed project components neither create nor exacerbate imbalances beyond the negotiated ultimate design capacity of 6,500 skiers per day. Subsequent plan submissions would build on this information and provide further assessment associated with additional project components that are advanced. Policy direction is provided in the 2008 Site Guidelines that: Proposals that are aimed at achieving the design capacity of 6,500 and related balancing of ski terrain, commercial space, out-of-base lift capacity, total lift capacity and parking will be considered subject to: terrain limitations; achieving the ecological management parameters; and consistency with the Growth Limits (2008 Site Guidelines, pg. 24, sec ). 77

3 Out-of-Base Capacity The existing Out-of-Base Capacity consists of the uphill capacity provided by the Eagle Express (rated capacity 2,407 persons per hour) and the Canadian Rockies Express (rated capacity 2,400 persons per hour). Since the School House Chairlift does not extend up the slopes far enough to connect with other lifts, it does not contribute to the out-of-base determinations. The Caribou Chairlift is not operational and, as such, does not contribute to the existing out-of-base capacity calculations. The current Out-of-Base Capacity is 4,807 persons per hour, based on the combined rated capacity of the Eagle Express and Canadian Rockies Express chairlifts. Lift Capacity The existing lift system is comprised of three detachable-grip quadruple chairlifts, one fixed-grip quadruple chairlift, one fixed-grip triple chairlift, one operating fixed-grip double chairlift and one small conveyor belt beginner lift. These lifts have an hourly capacity of 11,805 passengers per hour and 4.13 million Vertical Transport Metres (VTM). Although much of the equipment associated with the Caribou lift is still installed, the lift is no longer operational. It is estimated by Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners Limited (2013) that the operating Marmot Basin lift system can accommodate up to 5,430 skiers per day (Table 3), and excluding the Caribou lift. Table 3: Marmot Basin Ski Area 2012/ 2013 Lift Inventory Lift Number Lift Name Lift Type Year Constructed A Eagle Express D4C 1990 B Canadian Rockies D4C 2008 C School House 3C 2011 D Caribou 2C 1970 E Paradise Express D4C 2011 G Knob 2C 1976 H Eagle Ridge 4C 2001 I Beginner Top Elevation [m] 2,042 2,278 1,847 2,027 2,285 2,410 2,266 1,725 Bottom Elevation [m] 1,720 1,720 1,742 1,829 1,877 2,139 1,965 1,720 Total Vertical [m] ,168 Horizontal Distance [m] 1,173 2, ,005 1, , Slope Distance [m] 1,226 2, ,024 1, , ,474 MC 2001 Average Slope [%] Rated Capacity 2,407 2,400 1, ,400 1,200 1, ,805 V.T.M./Hr (000) 775 1, ,128 Rope Speed [m/sec] Trip Time [min] Operating Hr/Day V.T.M. Demand/Day 3,441 3,338 2,120 3,135 5,723 7,367 5, Loading Eff [%] Morning [%] Egress/Lunch Staging [%] Staging SCC Skiers/Day 1,300 2, , ,430 Cumulative Total 1,300 3,410 3,630 3,630 4,630 4,880 5,410 5,430 Total 78

4 Ski Trails The existing alpine ski trail system consists of 93 ski trails of which 86 are named, and five are connector skiways. These trails encompass ha of skiable terrain (horizontal area) within the Developed Area. Based on industry standard skier densities, it is estimated that the ski trail system has a capacity of 5,140 skiers per day. 42 Commercial Floor Area Ski Marmot Basin has completed, through Alpine Land Surveys Limited, a Partial Real Property Report as required by Parks Canada to support policy decisions associated with the application of the 2008 Site Guidelines. The purpose of the survey is to create a record of all buildings on-site and their commercial and operational functions. The documentation and measurement of building floor space used for commercial (primarily public) purposes is of particular importance. The 2008 Site Guidelines provide for a negotiated commercial limit to development of 6, 270 m 2. The existing commercial floor area is 3,664 m 2 (Table 4). A total net commercial floor area expansion of 216 m 2 is proposed for the Caribou Chalet that would result in a total commercial floor area of 3,880 m 2. Ecosign Limited used the industry-standard floor area per skier component on which commercial floor area limits were established in the 2008 Site Guidelines. This component is based on a design day of 85% of the peak day visitation and amounts to 0.91 m 2 of commercial floor area per skier. On this basis, the existing commercial space of 3,664 m 2 can comfortably serve 4,026 skiers on the 85% of peak design day. With approval of the proposed Caribou Chalet expansion, the number of skiers that could be comfortably served increases to a total of 4, The three runs where reglading is proposed (Milk Run, Elevator Chutes and Little Chicago) are included in the calculations of the existing ski trail inventory. 79

5 Table 4: Marmot Basin Ski Area - Floor Area Inventory (April 2014) Floor Area Table (Square Metres) Parcel GS, PLAN (C.L.S.R.) (PLAN (L.T.O.)) Building Description Floor Commercial Deck Operational Stairs/ Elevator 1 Accounting Trailer 68 2 Parking Building 10 4 Food/Bev Staff Building 21 5 Ski Patrol Boot-up 61 6 Ski Patrol First-Aid Lower 45 7 CRA sea can 29 8 Uniform sea can Vehicle Maintenance & Lift Ops Change Room Vehicle Maintenance & Trail Crew Shed 11 Jasper Ski School 12 Ski School Boot-up/ Special Events (Value not included) 13 Accounting sea can Lift Maintenance Shop Carpentry Building Electrical Shop Lift Maintenance Storage Carpenter s Shack # Avalanche Control Building Mechanical/ Garbage/ Loading 20 Lagoon Hydroxyl Building Lagoon Pump House Caribou Chalet 23A 23B Paradise Chalet Eagle Chalet (* Below Deck Storage as measured by SMB) Lower Main Upper 1, Lower Main Upper Lower Main Storage 72* 24 Avalanche Assembly Shed 7 25 Storage Shed (Near #24) 3 26 Generator Shed (Near #16) 9 27 Avalanche Control Gun Deck 9 28 Explosives Shed 3 29 Triple Hut (Ski Patrol) 9 30 Jasper Freestyle Club Propane Storage Shed 7 32 Former Laboratory Generator Shed Timing Buildings Mid Mountain 12 Wolverine 3 Porteous 5 Tranquilizer 4 Dromedary 5 35 Refrigeration Trailer (Near #22) Recycling Building (Near #22) Paradise Patrol Hut 10 TOTAL 3, ,

6 Parking Ski Marmot Basin commissioned Bunt & Associates Engineering to undertake an analysis of existing parking capacities and future transportation opportunities and challenges. They confirmed that Ski Marmot Basin currently has the capacity to park 1,000 vehicles in four public parking areas and with an additional 300 overflow parking spaces along the service road. As described in section 2.4 of this long range plan, extending the existing parking lots onto Home Run can provide up to an additional 630 parking spaces. In addition, sections of the service road can be widened to facilitate the safe roadside parking in the lease area. The proposed expansion of the existing parking lots would provide for an additional 1,582 skiers ( see section for calculation parameters) and increase the comfortable parking capacity to 4,832 skiers. With the parking expansion included, the total vehicle parking and transit capacity is 5,132 skiers (Table 5). The proposed widening of the road does not increase the parking capacity but allows roadside parking to occur safely, increase visitor satisfaction and permit three-lane flow at the end of the day on peak days. Table 5: Marmot Basin Ski Area 2012/ 2013 Parking Capacity Parking Existing Spaces Proposed Spaces 43 Existing Capacity 2.5 skiers/vehicle Proposed Capacity 2.5 skiers/vehicle Lot ,055 Lot Lot ,000 1,562 Lot ,025 Parking Lot subtotal 1,000 1,663 2,500 4,082 Marmot Access Road/ Overflow Total Parking 1,300 1,933 3,250 4,832 Marmot Shuttle Bus Charter Bus Total Parking and Bus 3,550 5,132 Conclusion - Ski Area Operational Facility Balance Based on the foregoing analysis of operational elements by Ecosign Mountain Resort Planners Limited (2013) and involving the out-of-base capacity, the lift capacity, ski trail capacity, commercial floor area capacity and parking/ transit capacity, a conclusion is reached that all of the components are well below the development growth limit of 6,500 skiers (see: Figure 20). Additionally, the project components advanced in this plan would not result in any operational element becoming out of balance. 43 Source: Nichols Environmental (Canada) Limited Technical Memorandum. 81

7 Figure 25: 6000 Marmot Basin Ski Area Operational Facility Balance Out of Base LiJs Ski Trails Commercial Space Parking Proposed Expansion Bus ExisSng 4.3 ADEQUACY OF SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURE This section deals with the existing and anticipated future adequacy of the Marmot Basin infrastructure relating to domestic water, wastewater, and electrical power. The infrastructure elements to be addressed in this long range plan consist of: The domestic water system; The waste water treatment system; and The electrical power system Domestic Water The majority of domestic water use occurs during the ski season. On average, the annual domestic water use is about 6,000 m 3. Domestic water accounts for about 5.4% of the current water use. The existing water intake intercepts Basin Creek below the surface grade and approximately 125 m up stream of the Paradise Chalet. Both surface runoff and groundwater is collected. Potable water is stored in two cisterns at Paradise lodge and in an out-dated and above-ground stave 82

8 tank located west of the Caribou Chalet. The replacement of the stave tank would occur as an operational matter outside of the long range planning process. The existing domestic water distribution system meets applicable requirements and can continue as presently configured. 44 It is estimated, however, that an additional 1,800 m 3 of water would be required to accommodate anticipated future skier visits 45. Future replacement of the aging water piping would occur. As outlined in section 2.3.2, the new line would be designed to reduce the volume of water presently diverted from the Basin Creek drainage in the winter months to prevent freezing of the pipes. The water intake system would be upgraded or replaced to remove debris build-up and ensure the future optimization of the system Wastewater System 46 The wastewater treatment system is designed to accommodate high winter volumes and ensure that effluent is treated in a manner that meets all applicable criteria established by Parks Canada. The Caribou Chalet and the two mid-mountain chalets each have waste settling tanks that separate solids from liquid waste. The wastewater is produced from human waste, kitchens and laundry services. Solid wastes are taken by truck from the tanks to the Jasper Wastewater Treatment Facility on a scheduled basis. Water overflow from the settling tanks is piped to the Wastewater Lagoon Cell 1 (capacity 11,355 m 3 ) where it is stored through the winter months (Figure 20). During the summer, cultured algae blooms in Cell 1 feed on nutrients in the wastewater. The wastewater is subsequently pumped, treated using a hydroxyl/ polymer process, analysed and when specified conditions are achieved, released to ground by an adjacent ditch. An independent laboratory tests the treated wastewater and once the Parks Canada criteria are achieved, twice in succession, the water is released to ground. Through operation of a skimmer, any remaining suspended solids are separated and hauled by truck for disposal to the Jasper Wastewater Treatment Facility. The Parks Canada criteria that must be achieved before the treated water is released to ground are: Phosphorus mg/l (leader target) and 0.15 mg/l (interim discharge limit); 44 Nichols Environmental Services conducted the assessment. Information on the domestic water system is contained in Nichols Environmental Services Technical Memorandum. 45 Golder Associates Marmot Basin Water Management Strategy. 46 Nichols Environmental Services Technical Memorandum. Information on the wastewater treatment system is contained, also, in the Golder Associates Water Management Strategy. 83

9 Ammonia (NH3-N) - 1 mg/l (Summer); Fecal Coliform - 20 CFU/100 ml (end pipe); Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) - 10 mg/l (Summer) and 20 mg/l (Winter); Total Suspended Solids (TSS) - 10 mg/l; and Phosphorous (Ph) - meets background levels of receiving waters. The dates for the release to ground vary from year-to-year but typically occur in mid-june. The estimated wastewater volume, as presented in the supporting Ski Marmot Basin Water Management Strategy (2014), is based on available data domestic water use data. These data are considered to be uncertain, as the monitoring equipment put in place over the years was not designed to provide comprehensive reporting. Cell 1 and Cell 2 receive water, also, from direct precipitation on the pond surfaces, runoff inflow from the small local upstream watershed and potentially from groundwater sources. These inflows are considered to be relatively small and, if groundwater inflows are occurring, they are difficult to quantify at this time. Ski Marmot Basin intends to install and maintain a reliable water metering system in 2014 to confirm wastewater volumes. The adequacy of the wastewater system revolves around two primary aspects; effluent treatment sufficiency, and storage volume capacity. The wastewater treatment system and infrastructure are operating in compliance with the analytical criteria as set out in a letter from the Jasper Parks Canada Superintendent, dated February 18, The matter of compliance is based on the results of independent laboratory analyses. The existing lagoon cells have capacity to manage the existing and near future wastewater requirements. 47 Future proposed modifications to the wastewater system involve piping and fixture upgrades that comprise normal operation and maintenance. Ski Marmot Basin proposes to increase the capacity of Cell 1 from 11,355 m 3 to 17,791 m 3 to facilitate an increase in the amount of machinemade snow that can be put on the lower mountain runs in the early portions of the ski season. Instead of releasing the treated water to ground, following verification that all Parks Canada criteria have been met, Ski Marmot Basin proposes to recycle the treated water for early season snowmaking. This recycling is proposed on the premise that the treated water would met all applicable standards, or that any increase in filtration requirements could be accommodated. The proposed expansion of Cell 1 would accommodate, also, anticipated increases for wastewater treatment capacity as future winter visitation increases (Figure 26). 47 Conclusion provided by Nichols Environmental Services, Technical Memorandum, October

10 Figure 26: The Marmot Basin Wastewater Treatment System Cell 1 at Bottom of Photograph Electrical Power System The Palisades Generating Station supplies electrical power to the Town of Jasper, visitor facilities in the surrounding town site area, Canadian National (CN) Signals east and west, the Transmountain Pipeline and Marmot Basin Ski Area. The eight generating units in the plant are fuelled by natural gas and have a generating capacity ranging from 0.5 mega watts (MW) to 3.3 MW. The installed capacity of the plant is 21 MW. There is also a small "run of the river" hydro plant located on the Astoria River approximately 20 km south of Jasper. The capacity of this station is 1.4 MW in the summer and depending on the water level, down to 0.2 MW in the winter. Increased power consumption would occur in association with the proposed expansion of snowmaking and the Caribou Chalet improvements. These increases are summarised below. The increased electrical load associated with the expansion of snowmaking would be.91 MW. Two water pumps would require a total of.52 MW and up to 20 snowmakers a total of.39 MW. The proposed Caribou Chalet improvements would result in an increased electrical load of.05 MW. 85

11 The existing and proposed power demands were reviewed with representatives of ATCO Electric who confirmed that the increases were within the existing contract limits and do not represent a strain on the Jasper power supply. 48 Existing peak loading estimates are well below the contract limit and no special conditions for operations by the ski area are identified. Some alteration in the internal distribution system at Marmot Basin would be required that included both upgrading and providing additional transformers. 4.4 PARTIAL REAL PROPERTY REPORT A Real Property Report is required, by Parks Canada, to support development decisions for the Marmot Basin Ski Area. Representatives of the Parks Canada Agency and Ski Marmot Basin have agreed on the scope of a partial report that meets Parks Canada s realty and ski area policy requirements for long range planning. 49 The report, following a number of adjustments, was accepted as meeting the requirements of Parks Canada (April 18, 2013) and: Provides a baseline from which to measure future proposals and changes in building footprints and uses; Updates and replaces the estimate of 4,379 square meters of commercial space that was included in the 2008 Site Guidelines (page 23); Will be appended as a schedule to the next lease agreement; and Will be updated by Ski Marmot Basin and submitted to Parks Canada after each project that requires a change in building footprint or a requiring a change of use. 48 Pers. Comm. Jason Paterson, Vice President Maintenance and Operations, Ski Marmot Basin, June 17, Ski Marmot Basin commissioned Alpine Land Surveys Ltd. to undertake necessary survey work and complete the report based on requirements identified by Parks Canada. It is properly referred to as a partial real property report in that a combination of field measurements and data calculations from architectural plans were used the floor area calculations. 86

12 As a result of the completion of this Partial Real Property Report, Parks Canada and Ski Marmot Basin agreed to the following information outlined in the Report: Total Commercial Space: Total Deck Space: Total Operational Space: Total Mechanical/Garbage Loading Space: Total Stair/Elevator: Total Gross floor space: 3,664 square meters; 985 square meters; 1,919 square meters; 474 square meters; 345 square meters; and 7,387 square meters The 2008 Site Guidelines contains reference to the then existing commercial floor space at Marmot Basin as 4,379 m2. This was based on the best available information at that time. Following completion of surveys undertaken as part of the preparation of the Partial Real Property Report, and that included more precise definitions for building space use, Parks Canada and Ski Marmot Basin representatives have agreed to a revised commercial space figure of 3,664 m2. The results of the Floor Area Inventory that relate to commercial floor area calculations are contained in Table 4 of this plan document. 4.5 ARCHITECTURAL THEME An architectural theme is required as part of this first long range plan submission. 50 It has application for the exterior of new structures in the leasehold area, and as major renovations of existing structures occur. 51 The Architectural Theme is developed on the basis of the following objectives. They are: Create an identifiable and unified design character for all buildings and structures for Marmot Basin Ski Area by using the Caribou Chalet as the most recent large structure at Marmot Basin and historic precedents within Jasper National Park buildings, as models, while integrating the appropriate use of forms, masses, materials and colors; Highlight natural features to reduce the disruption of the visual environment, impact on terrain, vegetation, wildlife and aquatic environment; Provide guidance ensuring continuity for all new, redeveloped or upgrading of structures, public and operational buildings; and 50 Parks Canada, 2008 Site Guidelines, sec , pg Ski Marmot Basin retained the services of Ambiance Design Studio Limited to coordinate and prepare proposed architectural theme. 87

13 When practical, reasonable and economically viable, integrate a sensitive approach to building masses in relation to the natural landscape, existing land slopes, and site conditions while ensuring that buildings are as visually unobtrusive as possible and complement the natural setting. The Marmot Basin Ski Area Architectural Theme provides guidance to Ski Marmot Basin, as well as associated architects and consultants. Application of the theme will lead to a consistent and unified design motif for the ski area. The theme has been prepared to be in compliance with applicable regulations of the Parks Canada Agency, the National Building Code and the Alberta Building Code. The guidelines associated with the Architectural Theme would apply to all new and significantly renovated buildings. There are three principles on which the guidelines have been developed. The principles relate to: 1. Ecological integrity and the nationally significant landscape of the ski area in a national park; 2. Operational considerations and sustainable practices; and 3. Water management. Guidelines have been developed that fall into three categories: Standards for site design; Standards for building design; and Standards for lighting. The site design standards pertain to: building location; infrastructure massing; screening, freestanding and retaining walls; public pathways; exterior site furnishings for public buildings; and designing for snow management. Successful site design requires careful planning and attention given to climate, topography, scale and character of the natural landscape. Site design must first ensure public safety. Scenic views are a highly valued component of the Marmot Basin Ski Area and site designs should complement and provide access to these viewscapes. Special considerations should apply to each building site in order to maximize natural light and solar heat radiation. The building design standards focus on: environmental building technologies; application of general architectural concepts; colours and materials for exterior finishes; roof lines and materials; window and door treatments; design elements for porches, verandas, decks, pergolas and balconies; exterior stairs ramps; exterior handrails and guards; exposed structural and decorative elements; as well as signage and wayfinding for public buildings. 88

14 New development must respect the styles of existing buildings, more specifically the Caribou Chalet, as it is the most recent large structure, while drawing inspiration from historic precedents within the Jasper National Park. Architectural elements should speak to craftsmanship, quality, durability and the grandeur for the environment in which they are situated. Authenticity would be emphasized by rustic simplicity and by the avoidance of superfluous add-ons and over-use of manmade materials. Ski Marmot Basin recognizes the need to protect the night time environment from the excessive use of outdoor lighting. This recognition is consistent with objectives identified by Parks Canada, including the designation of Jasper National Park as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. 52 Excessive outdoor lighting can have: Adverse impacts on wildlife; Increased energy costs and fossil fuel consumption; and Adversely affect dark skies. Outdoor lighting would be used only when required for operational purposes and to ensure employee safety. The proper management and reduction of outdoor lighting would contribute to ecosystem protection, energy savings and darker skies. This topic is addressed, also, as part of the Marmot Basin Best Management Practices (see: section 4.6). 4.6 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES SPECIFIC TO MARMOT BASIN SKI AREA Ski Marmot Basin was an active participant in the development of Best Management Practices for Development of Ski Areas in Banff and Jasper National Parks of Canada. 53 A number of best management practices are identified in the 2008 Site Guidelines that are specific to Marmot Basin and need to be addressed in the long range plan. These pertain to: Racecourse management (sec , pg. 39); Glading activity and tree removal (sec , pg. 40); Protocols for summer construction and maintenance activities to minimise impacts on grizzly bears (sec , pg. 42); and Matters related to viewscapes, noise and lighting sec , pg. 42). 52 Parks Canada Agency Guidelines and Specifications for Outdoor Lighting at Parks Canada. 53 Parks Canada Agency Best Management practices for Development at Ski Areas in Banff and Jasper National Parks. 89

15 This first Long Range Plan submission incorporates all the best management practices that are specific to Marmot Basin and were agreed to in the 2008 Site Guidelines. Additional refinement may occur as part of subsequent plan submissions. The best management practices that are specific to Marmot Basin are described, further, in Ski Marmot Basin: 2014 Long Range Plan Supplemental Volume Race Course Management At present, Ski Marmot Basin averages six alpine races each winter season involving youth and sanctioned by Alpine Alberta. The related issues are: the application of fertilizers for snow hardening to ensure a firm and smooth course surface; and The use of netting to ensure racer safety but that can be an impediment to wildlife movement, and potentially causing larger animals to become ensnared. Best management practices are advanced that limit the application of prescribed fertilizers to reduce adverse environmental effects, while ensuring safe conditions for ski racing. In addition, procedures are established to minimize the adverse effects of netting on wildlife movement, while ensuring skier safety Noise Issues relating to noise include: Disturbance to wildlife from construction activities; Public disturbance from construction activities; and Excessive noise at special events. Best management practices are proposed that will achieve a number of identified outcomes. Construction projects and programs will be conducted so as to minimize the intensity, duration and timing of activities creating noise so as to limit impacts on wildlife and the public. The seasonal and daily timing of construction activities will be scheduled to achieve those outcomes while ensuring that worker safety is maintained. Finally, special events at the ski area would be conducted in a manner that minimizes sound dispersal and within sound levels consistent with a ski area in a national park setting. 90

16 4.6.3 Outdoor Lighting Ski Marmot Basin recognizes the need to protect the night time environment from the excessive use of outdoor lighting consistent with the designation of Jasper National Park as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, as well as objectives identified by Parks Canada. 54 Excessive outdoor lighting can have: Adverse impacts on wildlife; Increased energy costs and fossil fuel consumption; and Adversely affect dark skies. Outdoor lighting would be used only when required for operational purposes and to ensure employee safety. The proper management and reduction of outdoor lighting would contribute to ecosystem protection, energy savings and darker skies. This topic is addressed, also, as part of the Marmot Basin Architectural Theme (see: Section 4.5 of this Long Range Plan) Viewscapes Scenic values are important in a highly visible national park setting. The Marmot Basin Ski Area is visible from portions of the Icefields Parkway, Highway 93A, the Marmot Basin Road, the Marmot Basin road, and from numerous trails in the vicinity. Lights on Eagle Ridge may be observed at night from limited portions of Highway 16 and from the Jasper townsite. Future ski area development would be designed to complement the natural setting. This entails: Designing facilities, including the use of visual simulation modeling and adherence to an approved Architectural Theme, that complements the natural surroundings; Undertaking forest clearing and terrain modification that complements the natural landscape and forest composition; and Completing all construction the construction followed by reclamation Summer Construction & Maintenance to Bear and Ungulate Disturbance The Marmot Basin Ski Area is situated in a portion of the national park that is frequented by grizzly and black bears, and a variety of ungulate species. Requirements identified in the BMPs and the Jasper National Park Bear Management Plan will be followed by Ski Marmot Basin. 54 Parks Canada Agency Guidelines and Specifications for Outdoor Lighting at Parks Canada. 91

17 4.6.6 Glading/ Tree Removal and Run Brushing The 2008 Best Management Practices for the mountain national park ski areas contain comprehensive direction on tree removal, glading of new areas and run brushing. The specific practices agreed on will be maintained. In addition, Ski Marmot Basin would maintain the following schedules. Ski Marmot Basin would establish a multi-year schedule for the maintenance of areas approved for glading. Depending on the specific area, maintenance would occur on schedules ranging from five to 10 years. Schedules for glading and brush cutting would be shared with Parks Canada for comment and review. Annual reports on the work undertaken will be provided to the Parks Canada Ski Area Coordinator. Glading in newly approved areas would occur in accordance with the broader applications of the Best Management Practices for the Mountain National Park Ski Areas, as well as the removal and disposal of all trees. Plans for glading in new areas would be developed in full consideration of Ski Marmot Basin s Vegetation Management Strategy. # Brush cutting would occur on two-year cycles and in accordance with a schedule submitted to Parks Canada. Cutting would commence on or after September 1 after any seasonal risk to ground-nesting birds is past. Ski Marmot Basin would work in collaboration with Parks Canada to advance strategies associated with protecting and potentially propagating whitebark pine a federally-listed endangered species at risk that is found in the ski area lease. Further, Ski Marmot Basin would ensure that incremental and incidental damage does not occur to known occurrences as result of operational activities such as grooming and brushing of runs. Implicitly, this requires that a thorough mapping of the lease for whitebark is undertaken and operational protocols are put in place and applied. 4.7 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT STRATEGY Direction associated with the requirements for the Ski Marmot Basin Vegetation Management Strategy (Vegetation Strategy) is contained in the 2008 Site Guidelines (sec , pg. 40). This strategy addresses: How ecological parameters for vegetation management would be achieved as they relate to the project components being advanced, including the identification, mapping and management of rare and sensitive plant species; Approaches to control invasive and non-native plant species; The identification and stabilization of existing erosion sites; and Description of replacement tree planting initiatives and approaches to address any additional requirements. 92

18 This strategy has been developed in accordance with the requirements and expectations of the Marmot Basin Ski Area Site Guidelines for Development and Use (Parks Canada 2008a), the Marmot Basin Ski Area Site Guide Guidelines and Strategic Environmental Assessment (Parks Canada 2008b), personal communications to D. Gibson (Fenton 2011, pers. comm.) and the Run Improvements and Vegetation Management Strategies -- Expectations for Ski Area Long Range Plan -- Draft (Parks Canada 2011). This strategy is based on an ultimate design capacity of 6,500 skiers per day that was negotiated as part of the Marmot Basin Site Guidelines. A full version of the Strategy is contained in Ski Marmot Basin: 2014 Long Range Plan Supplemental Information Objectives for Valued Components and Ecological Management Parameters Valued Components: Ski leasehold areas may have ecological impacts on both local site and regional health of the national park. To ensure preservation of ecosystem function and sensitive areas are protected, the 2008 Site Guidelines provide identification of several valued components (VCs) of ecological integrity, based on known ecological issues related to ski area development and through consultation with resource specialists. Valued components related to vegetation at Marmot Basin are: Native vegetation diversity; Rare and sensitive species and communities; and Historic fire regime. Vegetation communities that form habitat for several important species or species groups have also been identified as VCs. These species include grizzly bear, woodland caribou, mountain goat, wolverine, lynx and small mammals. Ecological Management Parameters The 2008 Site Guidelines and Forest Cover Ratio Considerations for Marmot Basin Long Range Planning 55 contain ecological management parameters that all development proposals are required to meet for each of the identified VCs. The ecological parameters identified for vegetation are: Native species and communities dominate throughout the ski area; 55 Parks Canada Forest Cover Ratios Considerations for Marmot Basin Long Range Planning. 93

19 Plant communities reflect regional and local vegetation diversity; Glading and thinning simulate native vegetation succession and support role of fire; Native vegetation serves as an anchor against soil erosion; Rare and sensitive vegetation communities and terrain features persist; Habitat for rare and sensitive species is maintained; The composition and structure of vegetation provide habitat for a range of native species; Vegetation management and facility design support the restoration of fire as a natural process; Construction and modification to vegetation and terrain do not alter natural flow rates or earth and rock flow features; and Construction, terrain modification and vegetation removal avoid saturated soils or surficial deposits where mitigation measures are unlikely to be successful. The ecological parameters identified to address wildlife movement, habitat requirements and habituation include: The maximum run width is 50 m; The existing base area clearing is limited to the current 6 ha; Additional clearings for specialized sites do not exceed 75 m in with or 3 ha in area; On either side of runs, a strip of contiguous forest at least as wide as the run remains; Forested areas between runs are irregular in shape and cover a minimum of 8 ha; Additional vegetation clearing below Eagle Chalet will ensure that a minimum of 65% of natural forest is retained; Construction and modification of vegetation and terrain does not impair habitat important to small mammals; Summer activities such as construction and maintenance do not displace or habituate grizzly bears; Development preserves natural food sources for grizzly bears and does not create non-native sources of food that would attract them; Off-piste and out-of-bounds skiing do not displace caribou from habitat important to the regional population; Development does not increase access for predators or increase the density of prey in important caribou habitat in and near the leasehold; Modifications to vegetation and terrain do not affect the availability of caribou lichen outside of the existing Developed Area ; 94

20 Construction, modification to vegetation and terrain, visitor use and operational activities do not displaces goats from local habitat essential to the regional population of from travel routes essential to the regional population; and Goat travel routes to the Whistlers Creek mineral lick are identified and protected Cleared Areas Below the Elevation of the Eagle and Paradise Chalets The Vegetation Strategy addresses vegetation community types and structural characteristics at Marmot Basin, including rare and sensitive communities, as well as cleared areas below Eagle and Paradise Chalets. In response to past development, on-going commitments have been made for implementation of revegetation strategy to maintain forested stand size at the Marmot Basin Ski Area. An area of 0.78 ha on No Show was planted with trees and fenced off in June of An additional area of 0.22 ha on Triple Access has not been brush cut in several years, and has enough natural seedling growth to meet objectives set for the Paradise Chairlift and Schoolhouse Chairlift replacements. This area will be fenced and permanently closed to skier and machine traffic. The percentage of vegetation clearing within the existing Developed Area was calculated as the proportion of disturbed (i.e., developed) areas including facilities, roads, and non-forested (cleared) ski runs to the existing Developed Area below the chalets (1,980 m). Cleared ski runs and project related disturbance accounts for 72 ha, or 54% of the areas below the chalets, and forested cover types account for 61 ha, or 46% of this area. Ski Marmot Basin and Parks Canada, concur that achievement of a 65% forested / 35% unforested areas ratio in the existing Developed Area below 1980 m is beyond the scope of the first long range plan, and may not be realistically achievable in the long term (Parks Canada 2013). It is understood, however, that Ski Marmot Basin should ensure that long term conditions within the existing Developed Area are not worse for natural forest/vegetation cover than 2008 baseline conditions, and to further demonstrate a net improvement (Parks Canada, 2013). The circumstances for subsequent long range plans include an expected increase in the Developed Area and available ski terrain. Ratio calculations for natural forest cover will become more favourable with the addition of forested lands associated with the negotiated issuance of a 60 ha License of Occupation to accommodate Nordic skiing and a beginner ski teaching area. The existing Developed Area within the leasehold would be enlarged, also, in association with those activities in the new License of Occupation. 95

21 Parks Canada and Ski Marmot Basin will work together to establish realistic expectations for forest cover and related ecological management parameters for the expanded land base, particularly in respect to run width and clearing size parameters. A range of mitigation measures is identified to maintain vegetation composition and structure that is characteristic of the region. Specific mitigation measures based on vegetation community types at Marmot Basin include: Working towards re-establishing, in the long-term, a prescribed minimum ratio of 65% of natural forest below Eagle and Paradise chalets, in order to preserve wildlife habitat; Prior to any tree or other vegetation removal, submitting a compensatory revegetation plan for approval by Parks Canada; and BMPs for glading and clumping will be followed. Preserving the integrity of vegetation communities is central to native vegetation diversity and rare and sensitive species and communities, which are identified as VCs for Marmot Basin Ski Area (2008 Site Guidelines). Mitigations to minimize effects to these species include: Site disturbance from construction would be minimized to limit effects to vegetation and terrain that will impair habitat important to small mammals; Development would preserve natural food sources for grizzly bears and will not create nonnative food sources that would attract them; Modifications to vegetation and terrain would avoid areas with caribou lichen outside of the existing Developed Area ; and Construction, modification to vegetation and terrain would avoid habitats which would displace goats from local habitat essential to the regional population of from travel routes essential to the regional population. Ski Marmot Basin s revegetation strategy reflects a long-term commitment to advance the intent of the 2008 Site Guidelines regarding ecological management parameters in the identified developed area of the Marmot Basin Ski Area. It is intended that over time, revegetated areas will mirror adjacent areas regarding parameters such as species composition and density. Revegetation would occur through both active planting, as well as by allowing natural revegetation. Areas identified for revegetation in Figure 23 of this plan document represent longterm commitments by Ski Marmot Basin. Areas would be protected from skiing and operational activities that may be detrimental to the revegetation commitments. As part of the proposed Environmental Management and Monitoring System described in Section 4.11 of this Long- Range Plan, Ski Marmot Basin will monitor and report on the progress of revegetation initiatives, and take mitigation measures as deemed necessary in consultation with Parks Canada. Additionally, Ski Marmot Basin will work with Parks Canada representatives to advance the identification, protection and, potentially, propagation of whitebark pine in the leasehold and 96

22 national park. Knowledge deficiencies associated with the proposed strategy will be addressed through future discussions and processes involving Parks Canada Rare Plant Species For the purpose of Vegetation Management Strategy, a rare plant is defined as any native vascular or non-vascular (i.e., lichens and bryophytes) plant species that, because of its biological characteristics, exists in low numbers or in very restricted areas. 56 Within Marmot Basin, 15 vascular plant species and 11 lichen species are listed based on the Alberta Conservation Information Management System (ACIMS). 57 An additional nine lichen species were collected within the lease and are unranked by ACIMS. In comparison to vascular plants, the relatively high number of rare lichens documented at Marmot Basin is due in part to the fact that lichen flora of Alberta is poorly known, especially in the Rocky Mountains portions of the province. One federally listed species, whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis), has been reported from Marmot Basin. Whitebark pine has been documented twice to the north of the Caribou Chair along the Tres Hombres Ridge, and in the subalpine areas around the Eagle Ridge Chairlift. The presence of a single whitebark pine tree on Milk Run. Several current or formerly listed species are well distributed and regularly encountered across the ski area; several of these are found in disturbed or altered areas within the ski area, such as Parry s rush, and cotton grass, which are encountered along man-made drainages, or small northern grass-of-parnassus which is regularly encountered along roadsides or in reclaimed areas. Drainage patterns and hydrology appear to be the primary factors that support habitats for the rare vascular species observed within the leasehold. Soil chemistry, including ph, salts, and nutrient uptake also play a role in the presence of these species. General mitigation measures used by Ski Marmot Basin include those detailed in BMPs for national parks ski areas. Ski Marmot Basin would monitor areas adjacent to new developments to determine if site conditions remain suitable for the persistence of listed species that occurred in the area prior to development activities. This monitoring would target species dependent on groundwater conditions that may be affected by reservoir construction and parking lot expansion. 56 Alberta Native Plant Council (ANPC) ANPC Guidelines for Rare Plant Surveys In Alberta. Edmonton, AB. Available on-line at: 57 ACIMS List of all Elements in Alberta. Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation, Parks Division, Edmonton, AB. 97

23 4.7.4 Non-Native Invasive Plants Parks Canada has compiled a list of non-native invasive plants of particular interest in Jasper National Park. 58 Non-native invasive species identified at Marmot Basin were most frequently encountered in areas of high disturbance, such as the maintenance yard along the Marmot road, and on the partially reclaimed service road between the Stave Tank and the base of the Canadian Rockies Express. Nine species on the Priority Non-Native Invasive List for Jasper National Park were observed within the leasehold. Only one High Priority species for control may have been observed an unconfirmed Canada thistle found near the vehicle maintenance compound. Other species found at Marmot Basin were a lower priority for control. They were Alsike clover, red clover and white clover (all three previously used as part of reclamation mixes throughout national parks), common dandelion, common plantain, foxtail barley, and Iceland poppy. General mitigation measures used by Ski Marmot Basin include those detailed in the BMPs for National Parks Ski Areas. Ski Marmot Basin will aggressively control all high priority weeds. Preserving the integrity of vegetation communities is central to maintaining native vegetation diversity, as well as, rare and sensitive species and communities, which are identified as VCs for the Marmot Basin Ski Area. Sites of recent or constant disturbance such as roadsides or construction sites are the primary vectors for weed infestations. Marmot Basin would monitor invasive species and the methods used to control their spread. Further information is contained in section of this long range plan and in the Ski Marmot Basin Vegetation Management Strategy (2014) Erosion Control, Re-vegetation and Restoration Activities Erosion is associated with project development, including chair lift removal and replacement, and other project activities, such as snow cat damage or grading activities. These areas have targeted for re-vegetation and restoration activities at Marmot Basin. Parks Canada assesses these areas based on the reclamation standards detailed in the Best Management Practices. General mitigation measures used by Ski Marmot Basin include those detailed in those practices. Sites undergoing reclamation would be monitored in accordance with the reclamation standards contained in the Best Management Practices. This includes monitoring and maintaining all erosion control methods and drainage features of disturbed sties during spring runoff until 58 Parks Canada Priority Non-Native Invasive Vegetation List for Jasper National Park. 98

24 reclamation revegetation objectives are met. Site conditions, soil characteristics and salvage volumes, seed mixtures, seed rate and fertilizer use will be documented Sensitive Wildlife Species Valued components chosen to reflect the ecological integrity of wildlife at Marmot Basin are small mammal habitat, structure, grizzly bear, mountain goats, mountain caribou, wolverine and lynx. As part of the Ski Marmot Basin Vegetation Management Strategy, priority would be placed on the maintenance of vegetation communities that serve as habitat for these species. The following parameters from the 2008 Site Guidelines are intended to serve as general mitigation measures that preserve wildlife movement and habitat requirements: Maximum run width is 50 m; The existing base: area clearing is limited to the current 6 ha; Additional clearings for specialized sites do not exceed 75 meters in width or 3 ha in area; Forested areas between the runs are irregular in shape and cover a minimum of 8 ha; On either side of runs, a strip of contiguous forest at least as wide as the run remains; and Parks Canada and Ski Marmot Basin would work together to establish realistic expectations for forest cover and to demonstrate that undisturbed vegetation increases from 2008 conditions Vegetation Management and Proposed Development Details regarding the four proposed project components in the context of vegetation management, as well as management prescriptions and monitoring are contained in the Ski Marmot Basin Vegetation Management Strategy (2014) and the Marmot Basin Detailed Impact Analysis (2014). 4.8 ASSESSMENT OF VISITOR ACCOMMODATION The 2008 Site Guidelines contain direction that the long range plan(s) will need to demonstrate that accommodation needs can be met while respecting Parks Canada s established growth limits in Jasper National Park Current Situation Commercial visitor accommodation is provided in the Town of Jasper, at several outlying lodges operating in the park during the winter months, as well as hotels in the Town of Hinton and westward to Jasper s East Park Gate. The majority of winter visitation to Jasper National Park is 99

25 now comprised of regional visitors from as far eastward as the Greater Edmonton Region and to the west as far as Prince George. Noteworthy population growth in communities around Edmonton and westward has resulted in increased travel to Jasper and Marmot Basin on a daybasis, and for multi-night stays on weekends and holidays. As a consequence of aggressive marketing, Marmot Basin continues to attract modest numbers of visitors from the United Kingdom whom stay in Jasper for multiple nights. Marmot Basin experiences considerable variations in daily attendance levels with maximum visitation over Christmas, several weekends in January and February and then again over the spring break period. Average daily attendance for the 2009/ 2010, 2010/ 2011 and 2011/ 2012 winter seasons is 1352 users per day. For the same period there was an average of 13 days each winter season when user counts exceeded 3,000 and 2.7 days each winter season over 4,000 users. Town of Jasper Winter occupancy rates are directly related to the ski area and associated winter season promotions, with the exception of several weekends each year when large hockey tournaments or bonspiels draw non-skiing regional residents to Jasper for a weekend. Ski season accommodation requirements vary considerably with demand levels related to holidays, and promotional events.. Accommodation available to visitors consists of hotels and private home accommodation. The winter 2012/ 2013 hotel inventory consists of approximately 1,315 hotel rooms and an undetermined number of rooms in private homes. 59 Accommodation in Outlying Areas of Jasper National Park In addition to the hotels and private accommodation in the Town of Jasper, there are 11 outlying commercial lodges (referred to as OCAs). Four of these possess leases that permit winter operations. At present two operate during the winter - Pocahontas Cabins and Pyramid Lake Resort - with a combined total of 126 rooms. In addition, the Jasper Park Lodge operates yearround and has 460 rooms. Town of Hinton to Folding Mountain A significant and recent increase in hotel capacity has occurred in Hinton, located 80 km east of the Town of Jasper associated with the oil and gas service sector. At present, limited vacancy of the available units occurs in the winter months, as rooms are frequently booked on an on-going basis. Limited commercial accommodation is available at the Folding Mountain Resort. 59 The amount of private home accommodation is difficult to ascertain because a significant number of operators chose to not operate in winter or alternately rent their units for longer periods during the winter. 100

26 4.8.2 Future Trends The Town of Jasper The Canada National Parks Act requires that land use plans for national park communities contain a delineation of commercial zones, maximum commercial floor space limits and strategies for managed growth. Commercial development limits were established in the 2001 through the Jasper Community Land Use Plan. Commercial development potential was capped at 118,222 m 2. In those areas zoned for commercial retail and accommodation, ultimate future growth is capped at an additional 4,658 m 2. At the current rate of commercial construction, the Town of Jasper will have reached commercial build-out by Accommodation in Outlying Areas of Jasper National Park Limits have been placed by Parks Canada on the future expansion of OCAs. Parks Canada policy is that no leases for new commercial accommodation will be permitted in the national park - including on-hill accommodation. No significant change in the amount of outlying accommodation can be anticipated, therefore, other than a small increase resulting from existing operators expanding the number of winterized units where lease provisions allow. Town of Hinton and Surrounding Region Hinton has recently developed a Community Diversification Plan (2010) and a Community Sustainability Plan (2011) that advance strategies for economic diversification, including expanding opportunities and infrastructure to support year-round tourism. In the region between the Town of Hinton and Jasper s East Gate, several new resort developments are contemplated to capitalise on the area s natural attraction and to serve as a gateway to Jasper National Park. In the next five years, the majority of commercial accommodation during the winter months will likely continue to be utilised by workers in the oil and gas sector Assessment of the Adequacy of Visitor Accommodation Attendance levels at Marmot Basin are anticipated to increase with projected population growth in the Yellowhead Region. Increases, based on the continuing regional population base, will place increased pressure on the commercial accommodation supply during peak periods. Market responses in Jasper will occur but will have only modest effect on relieving the future pressures on demand for peak period accommodation. In future years and dependent on the oil and gas sector, developments in Hinton and the Folding Mountain area may assist to relieve peak period pressures for accommodation. Excepting the peak periods involving regional visitors, visitor accommodation needs will be sufficient for the foreseeable future. Very modest increases in commercial accommodation will be permitted by Parks Canada in the Town of Jasper and in Jasper National Park. Regional visitors 101

27 are anticipated to adjust the timing of their visits to avoid peak periods, or to travel to Jasper on a day-basis. 4.9 STAFF HOUSING STRATEGY Ski Marmot Basin employs 275 casual, part-time, seasonal and year-round staff when it is at full operation. The current housing inventory consists of: 2 panabode duplexes (4 units) that are occupied by year-round staff; 33 suites in Cavell Apartments that can accommodate 66 staff; Cabin Creek duplex that accommodates up to 12 staff; and 713 Geikie Street that can accommodate up 10 staff. Affordable and suitable housing for seasonal workers has been an issue in the Jasper townsite for decades. In recent winters, a modest increase in the availability of rental suites has occurred and provided some choice for employees. Ski Marmot Basin, the Jasper Tramway and Maligne Lake Tours are pursuing the pooling and centralised management of accommodation resources to facilitate the effective seasonal utilisation of the available accommodation inventory from these three operations. As a consequence of the project components proposed in this Long Range Plan, the net winter staff complement is estimated to increase by up to eight temporary workers (pers. comm. Jason Paterson, Vice-President, Operations, Ski Marmot Basin). The increase would be associated with operation of the expanded snowmaking. Accommodation for the increase can be handled as part of the amalgamation of the housing inventory. No additional accommodation, therefore, will be required HERITAGE TOURISM STRATEGY FOR MARMOT BASIN Heritage tourism is the active fostering of local and visitor appreciation and stewardship of the nature, history and culture of Jasper National Park, the Town of Jasper and surrounding areas. 60 The 2008 Site Guidelines (pg. 42, sec ): contain direction that: A heritage tourism strategy will be outlined in the Long Range Plan. It will include approaches for winter education. Notwithstanding the limited implementation of the 1999 strategy, Ski Marmot Basin will establish the foundation of a strategy for application at the ski resort. In this first plan, the framework is provided based on the 1999 Jasper National Park Heritage Tourism Strategy, and focusing on 60 Parks Canada Agency Jasper National Park Heritage Tourism Strategy. 102

28 further enhancing environmental education opportunities for youth, as well as for winter staff. An integrated approach involving the Jasper tourism sector, the Town of Jasper and Parks Canada would be pursued in a subsequent long range plan. Current Situation The owners and managers of Ski Marmot Basin have committed to the promotion and delivery of noteworthy standards of sustainable tourism. Examples of this commitment include the following. Collaboration with Parks Canada on two comprehensive wildlife studies. The studies focus on mountain goat and caribou, both species of special interest. Information associated with findings from the studies will be shared with visitors, aboriginal groups and stakeholders. Operation of The Learning Centre at Marmot Basin in collaboration with the Grande Yellowhead School Division and Parks Canada. The Centre provides innovative educational opportunities for youth across the region, Alberta and internationally. It is the only interactive ski-in, ski- out classroom in Canada. Free and on-mountain educational sessions have been offered to school and other youth groups through a unique partnership between Marmot Basin, Parks Canada and the Grande Yellowhead School Division. A crucial component of the program has been the link to the Alberta and British Columbia school curriculum. One hour-long programs are available that focus on reconnecting students with the outdoors through hands-on experience. The sessions are available on navigation technology, dealing with backcountry emergency situations, avalanche awareness, the natural and human history of the Rocky Mountains region, and an inside look at Jasper National Park. Completion of a three-year school pilot programme. The pilot programme included free educational sessions for school groups and reduced park gate fees ($1.95 per student per day) are now being evaluated. Environmental Ski Tours: Beginning in the winter of 2012/ 2013, environmental tours have been added as part of the Marmot Basin Ski School Program offer. 103

29 Figure 27: Students at the Learning Centre at Marmot Basin Ski Area Future Direction As the cornerstone of winter tourism in Jasper, Ski Marmot Basin would augment and complement Jasper National Park s visitor experience strategy and heritage tourism objectives. The ski area would develop and promote opportunities, products and services that are consistent with the heritage and environmental values of the national park. Ski Marmot Basin would recognise it has succeeded when day skiers are able to fully appreciate that their skiing experience at Marmot Basin is substantially different than a day skiing experience in a ski area outside Jasper and Banff national parks. Ski Marmot Basin would undertake the following actions. 1. In conjunction with its tourism partners, Ski Marmot Basin would continue to market Marmot Basin s unique environment as a ski area located in a national park and a world heritage site. The iconic landscape and heritage resource values of Jasper National Park would serve as the focal point of Marmot Basin s sales and marketing strategies. 2. Given the importance of Marmot Basin as a winter tourism destination in Jasper National Park, Ski Marmot Basin would collaborate with Parks Canada, as well as others in the tourism sector, in the development of the park s visitor experience strategy and winter marketing strategies including those related to heritage tourism. 3. An Environmental Management and Monitoring System (EMMS) has been developed, and upon Parks Canada acceptance would be implemented and publicly profiled, as the foundation of a commitment to sustainable tourism. (see: section 4.11 of this document). 104