AGASSIZ
Mountain Resort
Development Group
Riding Mountain National Park - McCreary, Manitoba, Canada
Agassiz Mountain Resort...Naturally!
Located in Beautiful Riding Mountain National Park
Box 99, McCreary, MB. R0J 1B)
Canada
admin
So much more than just a ski area!
Above... March 7, 2009
February 23, 2012 -
Community members have asked Riding Mountain National Park to provide an additional information session in Dauphin about the Management Plan Amendment to consider proposals to redevelop Mount Agassiz as well the Mount Agassiz Feasibility Study.
The information session will be held:
7-9 PM
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Lions Den, Parkland Recreation Complex
200 1st Street SE, Dauphin, Manitoba
February 18, 2012 - "Skijoring, a new sport with no home turf"
HUNTSVILLE - Matt Todd was in Arrowhead Provincial Park on Sunday introducing people and their dogs to the joys of skijoring. The latest form of snow madness to hit Muskoka, skijoring combines dogsledding and cross-country skiing. Read more...
http://www.cottagecountrynow.ca/news/article/1293982--skijoring-a-new-sport-with-no-home-turf
See more about local Skijoring at our "Skijoring" page...
Local Manitoba organization: www.snowmotion.ca
February 17, 2012 -
Comment Rec'd: February 16, 2012
"To whom it may concern,
It is my hope and belief that Agassiz will soon be the gem that it once was. To have a ski resort in one of Manitoba's best parklandsand not being utilized is a crying shame. Skiing and snowboarding is becoming a very popular sport again in Manitoba and requires definite recognition by all levels of government who have the opportunity to bring Agassiz back to it's former glory. Hard working people like Agassiz Mountain Development Group, Kelly Rose and his affiliates believe in the cause as well as do many of us because we know that Agassiz will draw in thousands of patrons year round. Not only will the resort flourish but the surrounding municipalities will benefit as well. I hope that who ever reads these comments will seriously consider the economic benefits that this will have for everybody. Please bring a smile back to our community.
(edited) and Family"
Agassiz Mountain Development Group reply: Geez thanks Darren. Great "heartfelt" comment - yet you didn't need mention me!! Humbling...thank you again and we'll see you on the slopes.
We shall reiterate whom Agassiz Mountain Development consists and represents. In noting sincere graditude to the many that have assisted in getting the project to this stage, it has not simply been of my own (Kelly Rose) efforts or vision. Maybe simply call me the spokesperson to this point...
AMDG has taken every opportunity to gather expertise and advice from a wide-range of experienced professionals; ski area operators, architects and restoration experts, engineers, building contractors, design, and planners, tourism marketers, food services and hospitality experts, risk and financial professionals, leaders of successful operations that mirror our conceptual alternative activities, noted environmental recreation and facility specialists, and many more in order to offer a realistic, viable and sustainable objective to all aspects to such operation.
The Management and Resource Team selected by AMDG comprises of vastly experienced and creative resources in the recreation, hospitality, marketing, tourism, and financial sectors required to further this mission.
AGASSIZ MOUNTAIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP (AMDG) continues to gather support to its mission by offering activities and encouraging use of the East Escarpment for the likes of mountain biking, hiking, skijoring, snowshoeing and horseback riding. To date, over 200 persons have been made aware, firsthand, of the opportunities that exist due to the encouragement of AMDG. This means to an end is actually the course any organization must exemplify to gather support for the missions benefit to its community.
We continue to update our on-going assessments on all aspects of the infrastructure and surrounding area, including the state of the market in Canada, and in particular, Manitoba. We continue to seek expertise and partner co-operation with other proposed use-interest groups on all areas of our conceptual plans for a clearer understanding and a common, realistic vision within all parties. Liaison with First Nations communities are on-going with expectations offering exciting benefits/opportunities to all involved, including the end-user the public.
February 14, 2012 Recent media article - Minnedosa Tribune February 3, 2012 Writer: Amanda Boyd
Parks Canada to re-evaluate Mount Agassiz
We had asked for comments recently and received many. Thus, well put up one per day
To: admin@skiagassiz.com
Sent: Thursday, February 9, 2012 10:33:16 AM
Subject: comments regarding Agassiz ski hill
Hi AMDG,
Not sure if this is what you are looking for, but here are some of my comments that you can send to Parks Canada regarding Agassiz. You can edit to hearts desire, take what you like, and leave the rest.
I think that Parks Canada has been presented with a wonderful opportunity to reopen a popular activity and tourist destination in Riding Mountain National Park.
For years, Mount Agassiz served as the ski hill of choice for generations of individuals and families who, to this day, have fond memories of their time spent on the slopes. Apart from a ski hill, Mount Agassiz offers so much more to those who will frequent its location. The natural beauty of the National Park, together with its many recreational opportunities mean a year-round destination for fun and learning.
I also disagree with the argument that another ski hill would not be able to compete with already existing ski hills in the area or vice-versa. With todays society returning to physical activity and sport, I think there would be more than enough clients to go around. And since when was a little healthy competition a bad thing? When you start establishing monopolies on services, the quality of that service declines.
Sincerely,
(name edited)
A very prominent resident south of the Park
CTV Viewer Poll Results January 25, 2012
Do you think Parks Canada should allow development of a ski hill in Riding Mountain National Park?
Despite our best efforts and yours, minutes ago we learned that Parks Canada is giving the green light to a private company to construct a 300-metre walkway and massive glass-floored skywalk at the side of the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park a UNESCO natural world heritage site!
Federal approval of Glacier Discovery Walk threatens Jasper National Park
CPAWS Press Release Feb.9, 2012
http://cpaws.org/news/federal-approval-of-glacier-discovery-walk-threatens-jasper-national-park
CPAWS is Canadas only national voice dedicated to the protection of our national parks.
Sincerely,Eric Hebert-Daly, CPAWS National Executive Director
February 7, 2012 - Update on Developments in Jasper National Park.
Parks Canada Delays Decision - CPAWS Feb.3, 2012
Public opinion matters!
Parks Canada is now reviewing over 2,000 letters it has received on this issue. They are also reconsidering its environmental impact.
CPAWS opposes this proposed development because we fear it would set a dangerous precedent for renewed commercial development in our mountain national parks. If this goes ahead, what will be next?
As well, the long term impact of it on wildlife, including mountain goats and big horn sheep, cant be predicted with confidence. There just isnt enough data.
Please help show that public concern is still growing. Take a minute now to send a letter to Parks Canada on this issue.
Its easy. When you click here, youll find suggestions for points you may wish to make in your letter, and an easy form that you can send directly to Parks Canada and the Minister of the Environment.
Thank you for helping to protect our precious national parks.
The CPAWS conservation team
February 6, 2012 - On a fact-finding mission the last several days. Please check this page (www.skiagassiz.com) later this week for the results...
Big Crowd at McCreary Meeting - Neepawa Banner Feb.2, 2012
Writer: Kate Jackman-Atkinson (both articles)
Parks Canada Recommend Amending Plan - Neepawa Banner Feb.3, 2012
http://www.mywestman.ca/content/view/4596/68/
Face Book Support Group
(orginally "Agassiz...Save our Mountains")
"Agassiz Mountain Snowsports Resort...Manitoba's Mountains"
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/group.php?gid=8384024150A Blast From The Past !
Cheers Richard for all your support.
January 29, 2012 - Many may not realize that there will be opposition to the amendment that would allow the redevelopment of the prairie's finest ski terrain and area. Look outside the box to figure where such opposition might come from. We NEED support the meetings to show the genuine and heartfelt support as the gatherings this week are what the last 4 years has come to.
It's in the east escarpment's, and the province's favor right now...lets keep the momentum going.
We believe that the study, although positive, did not show strongly enough to the viability and sustainability and such WILL BE USED AGAINST IT.
Students and their parents need attend to show the authentic and genuine support and need for ski area. It's near imperative to attend to offer such to it's need and benefits for the entire east escarpment, and the province for that matter.
Customer contact: Main customer contact form
(name & address edited)
Comments : "I hope for nothing else then this project to go ahead! My family of 6 are avid snowboarders and look forward to going to Agassiz. I run a (edited) company in (edited) but would consider relocating to that area if employment is available. Good luck and keep me informed!"
January 24, 2012 - Today's announcement by Parks Canada...
PARKS CANADA TO CONSULT ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO RIDING MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN
WASAGAMING, MANITOBA, January 24, 2012 Parks Canada is initiating public
consultation on a proposed amendment to the 2007 Riding Mountain National
Park Management Plan.
If approved, the amendment will allow Parks Canada to consider proposals
for the re-opening of a ski hill operation and possible multi-season
recreational activities at the Mount Agassiz Ski Area.
Following the release of the 2007 Riding Mountain National Park Management
Plan, new information was brought forward by local and regional
stakeholders and partners regarding the status and future of Mount Agassiz.
Many people believe that the potential viability of a new ski hill is
strong, and that this interest should have received much more
consideration.
Parks Canada listened and also gathered information, including an
independent feasibility study. It is time to move to the next steps. Parks
Canada needs to amend the current management plan prior to giving
consideration to any proposals to re-open Mount Agassiz. The current
management plan does not allow for this.
The public is welcome to attend a series of public open houses to discuss
the proposed amendment, and to learn about the feasibility study findings
in late January. More information and opportunity to provide comment is
available on the Riding Mountain National Park website
http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/mb/riding/plan/plan8.aspx . All comments will be
considered and will inform the plan amendment process.
Parks Canada is Canadas largest provider of natural and cultural tourism
products and its iconic destinations form the cornerstone of the Canadian
tourism industry Parks Canada supports tourism industry initiatives that
contribute to maintaining its parks ecological integrity while helping to
build authentic connections to place through meaningful visitor
experiences.
January 21, 2012 -
"Gord is looking down smiling" Nov.16, 2009
In personal reflection in the efforts of the last 4 years I constantly remind myself of the above comment sent to me in that Gord had asked me on his final day to "get that hill open". Other than Gord, another great Manitoban that I respected very much from both the sport of skiing, business and family was Doug Allen...he said the same.
For those unknowing of Gord Reid, he was deemed Mr.Ski Manitoba for his and his family's many contributions to the sport (both skiing and cycling), its development and to the thousands of skiers that considered Gord a best friend if not a second father. I am proud to admit that Mr. Gord Reid was both my mentor and second father from as early as 12 years old whereas we'd travel weekly to run Molstar events throughout Manitoba and NW Ontario. Hanging in the shop (Gords Ski Centre) after skiing the riverbank slopes at the Winnipeg Ski Club was always informative, interesting, and, to say the least, entertaining!
In the same breath I reflect being told by two very wise and informed gentlemen (one being my father) that it is difficult if not impossible to buck the decision of Parks Canada and to get our "heads outta the clouds". In now realizing where this mission and project has brought us today I'm quite confident, beyond giving it our best shot, that we will soon again look forward to standing at the top looking down the finest terrain around; if Agassiz had the elevation it would be with our "heads in the clouds"!
Many have now come to realize the redevelopment of Agassiz Ski Area will be the catalyst and driver to the many positive opportunties and benefits that it will bestow. The notoriaty of the east escarpment and Riding Mountain will be tourism mecca unlike none else in the province. It may be an old saying yet if we can build it they will come...a vibrant destination for all the right reasons.
If anything, yet no matter what the outcome, the great friendships, experiences and alliances that have been formed in the last 4 years have made this all worthwhile. Such will be timeless.
I'll leave you today with an Editorial Comment I had written October 2011 in response to a resident's rather negative comment towards Parks Canada to the reasoning of the process and its duration (edited):
"I had pondered whether to offer opinion to the September 22, 2011 article 'Open House talks about future on RMNP's east side'. I had decided not as I believe Park's Canada are making the best of issues and circumstances inherited from previous Park administration. In being so close to this in the last 4 years many might not understand how complicated it is; yet how far it has come.
It's not going to be as easy as simply turning a key in operating successfully.
In saying that, we were told by PC at the onset to this project (4 years ago) to avoid offering false-hope to the communities. Seems the table has turned somewhat on such as we can now realize near as many reasons to not redevelop as there are to redevelop.
AMDG feels it has come up with a great vision (plan) and resources. Part of that plan now includes being patient and of course to persevere. We shall continue to such in advocating the finest alpine terrain on the prairies be redeveloped for the very many experiences it can offer.
In reference to the recent opinion offered (I still have not seen it's printed version) from an area resident; and as a past participant of the East Escarpment Advisory Board, I can only imagine this person has not been actively involved in all the efforts and issues that surround this particular strategy to further compliment the communities surrounding Riding Mountain National Park. We need plan for our tomorrows today. To many it may appear to be like watching your bread turn to toast, but as a wise friend once said "Sometimes what seems like the longer path is actually a shorter path" when dealing with issues and processes aimed at the sustainable benefit of the communities.
It's been a long uphill climb fueled by so many folk's passion with the perseverance and hope for an exciting outcome that all can accept, nurture and enjoy.
Kelly Rose
General Manager/Managing Director
Agassiz Mountain Development Group
McCreary / Winnipeg, MB.
Have a great weekend everyone. Your support, suggestions and advice has been so very much appreciated. It has been a learning experience like none-other and although its been quite the ride lets look forward to our expectations becoming reality! Thats when the real work begins
Hope to see everyone at the Parks Canada gatherings (mentioned further on this page).
Kelly
January 19, 2012 -
"Branding about Emotion, not Selling Product"
Courtesy Rocky Mountain Outlook click here...
"Where Manitoba's Mountains Meet the Prairies"
Courtesy Nature Conservancy click here...
"Parks Canada Looking to be Financial Trailblazer"
Editoral Calgary Herald
January 18, 2012 - The writing has always been on the wall and we commend Parks Canada for their efforts...
Riding Mountain National Park Invites You to a Open House ( Poster click here... ) |
Get an Update on the Park Management Plan Find out What is Happening with Mount Agassiz and the Feasibility Study Meet the New Park Superintendent |
7:00 to 9:00 pm Tuesday, January, 31, 2012 Viscount Cultural Centre 293 Mountain Avenue, Neepawa Wednesday, February 1, 2012 McCreary Community Centre 445 Broderick Street, McCreary Thursday, February 2, 2012 George P Buleziuk Centre 106 Shell River Ave S, Russell Jasper is our national park not a theme park!
BackgroundParks Canada will soon be making a decision about Brewster's proposed Glacier Discovery Walk in Jasper National Park-- a 400-metre walkway and massive glass-floored skywalk extending 30 meters over the Sunwapta Valley. The stunning Tangle Ridge viewpoint on the Icefields Parkway would be privatized and visitors would have to pay fees ranging from $15 to $30 per person to access Brewsters Glacier Discovery Walk. The remaining free public viewpoint would look onto the massive glass and metal structure, marring the natural canyon landscape -- where today, mountain goats and sheep roam freely. In CPAWS view, the Glacier Discovery Walk is an unnecessary infrastructure in our national park that would limit public access to this spectacular view. Read our news release here. And read our full submission on this to Parks Canada for more detail. After reviewing the proposal, CPAWS is opposed to the Glacier Discovery Walk for the following reasons:
From AVAAZ http://www.avaaz.org/en/jasper_development/ Jasper National Park Superintendent Greg Fenton: Privatising Jasper National Park will set a dangerous precedent to allow destructive development by private corporations in World Heritage Sites across Canada. This goes entirely against what Canadians and visitors expect and deserve from Canada's wild and magnificent national parks. We call on you to listen to the Canadian public and your community and stop this development immediately. |
Canadas treasured Jasper National Park could be on its way to gaining a theme park-like attraction. Brewster Travel Canada, owned by a US-based company, wants to blast out the side of the cliff beside the Icefields Parkway to build the Glacier Discovery Walk a massive infrastructure skywalk, and charge people who wish to admire the view. January 3, 2012 -
"Open House Talks About Future on RMNP'S East Side"
RMNP Mckinnon Creek Culvert Rehabilitation Photos
Neepawa Press - March 3, 2011
Parks Canada Commences Feasibility Study to Determine Redevelopment at Agassiz Ski Area
Neepawa Press "The Crime is Keeping Agassiz Closed" Article
by Chris Tataryn, August 25, 2010
Neepawa Banner - March 18, 2011
by Kate Jackman-Atkinson
Click here and see our Resource Links page for much more media
Richard Cloutier and Kelly Rose standing where the culvert once was at Agassiz (December 2009)www.cjob.com
A Blast From The Past !
Now THAT'S a ski hill! And yet only the south slopes. See more of our trek at Agassiz of February 20-21, 2011 at SNOWSHOE page.Please join us at
Agassiz Mountain Resort...Naturally!
Located in Beautiful Riding Mountain National Park
Box 99, McCreary, MB. R0J 1B)
Canada
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