We are thrilled to start the year with a lot of enthusiasm and positivity. Looking back to 2022, AMPPE built a renewed relevance and visibility with the federal and provincial governments, local partners, you, and our members. AMPPE continued to advance your interests with decision-makers by preparing submissions, participating in consultations, and building alliances with local and regional partners. AMPPE wrapped up the year by travelling to Ottawa in November during the Tourism Industry Association (TIAC) Congress to meet with federal ministry staff and officials from Environment and Climate Change Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, Tourism, Finance, and Parks Canada.

As 2023 is beginning to ramp up, we have lots to look forward to in the coming months. AMPPE will weigh in on plans for parks budgets, visitor centres in Banff and Jasper, the Minnewanka Area Plan, Banff Planning Forum, a provincial cycling strategy and better maintenance and communication for maintenance along the Icefields Parkway.

AMPPE continues to call on governments for improved maintenance of trails and Park assets, increased operational funding for the Mountain Parks, and infrastructure project funding such as the recent $71 million that was announced last month in Banff. Over the coming year, AMPPE will continue to hold the federal government and Parks Canada accountable to ensure it meets its dual mandate to both preserve and present the Mountain National Parks in the best way possible, and call on members throughout the year to help us achieve our goals. 

Debbie Harksen, Executive Director

In 2022, the AMPPE Board underwent renewal and we are thrilled to welcome three new members: Alex Grant, VP of Operations at Banff Jasper Collection by Pursuit, takes over as Co-chair from Stuart Back; Matthew Decore from Osprey Holdings fills the Jasper seat, and Stavros Karlos from Bow Valley Mountain Bike Alliance replacing Clare McCann. Our gratitude goes to those board members who have completed their terms, including Jonathan Welsh of Discover Banff Tours who stepped down after 10 years on the board.

As we progress in our mission, the diverse backgrounds and expertise of the AMPPE Board will contribute to its growth and impact. AMPPE is eager to collaborate with Alex, Matthew, and Stavros and is excited for what we can achieve together in 2023 and beyond.

Minister of Environment Roundtable

Credit: Parks Canada

In January, residents, businesses, and recreational groups in the Bow Valley were informed that Moraine Lake Road will no longer be accessible to private vehicles, as per Parks Canada's decision. We are aware that Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Road have seen an increase in visitors in recent years, and Parks Canada had indicated their intention to make changes through the Park Management Plan and the Lake Louise Area Plan. Although AMPPE supports Parks Canada's decision, we are concerned about the implementation process this summer and are actively advising and supporting Parks Canada to ensure a successful outcome. AMPEE will continue to advise and support Parks Canada to ensure this is implemented successfully. 



Membership Dues

• Banff Planning Forum
• Date: February 15-16
• Location: Banff Park Lodge
• Tourism Industry Association of Alberta Summit
• Date: February 27-28
• Location: Westin Hotel, Edmonton