November 30, 2018 Lake Louise, Alberta Parks Canada Agency

On November 30, 2018, the Lake Louise Ski Area was fined $2.1 million for violations under the Species at Risk Act and the Canada National Parks Act.

In 2014, Parks Canada Park Wardens conducted an investigation at the Lake Louise Ski Area after receiving a report that whitebark pine trees – a species listed as endangered under the Species at Risk Act – had been cut down at the ski area. The inspection revealed that 140 trees, including 39 whitebark pines on the ski area leasehold had been unlawfully removed and destroyed.

Following this investigation, two charges were laid under the Species at Risk Act and the Canada National Parks Act for the removal and destruction of a species at risk and for the damage and destruction of flora in a national park without the appropriate permit.

In December 2017, the Lake Louise Ski Area pleaded guilty in the Provincial Court of Alberta and was convicted of these two offences.

Canada's network of protected areas protect and restore healthy, resilient ecosystems and contribute to the recovery of species at risk. Parks Canada is a recognized leader in conservation and takes the protection of the resources under its care, and the enforcement of legislation very seriously.

Parks Canada is committed to maintaining and restoring ecological integrity in national parks, while providing Canadians with opportunities to discover and enjoy these treasured places. Parks Canada works closely and in collaboration with local businesses operators to support environmental stewardship. Together, we ensure Banff National Park, including resident species at risk, remains protected through rigorous land use planning, environmental assessment, and detailed operating conditions in leases, permits, and licenses. Parks Canada, businesses operating in the national parks, and national park residents and visitors have a shared responsibility to protect species at risk.