tourism development opportunity assessment 2.4 mb this

16 JANUARY 2012

TOURISM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

ASSESSMENT

THE BEAVER HILLS

PREPARED FOR

Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreationby RC STRATEGIES INC and EIDOS CONSULTANTS INC [Feb 2011]

Revised by the Beaver Hills Initiative [BHI]

Tourism Working & Implementation Group

This Beaver Hills Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment was undertaken from September through November 2011. The project was commissioned by the Product Development Branch of Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation working cooperatively with the Beaver Hills Initiative (BHI), its board and the partnering municipalities in which the Beaver Hills is located (Beaver, Camrose, Lamont, Leduc and Strathcona Counties).

The project was led by Mr Paul Radchenko, Product Development Planner, with Alberta Tourism, Parks & Recreation; along with a Steering Committee comprised of:

� Brenda Wispinski (Beaver Hills Initiative)

� Dr Guy Swinnerton (University of Alberta and the BHI)

� Terry Krause (Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation)

� Candace Vanin (Agriculture and Agri-food Canada)

� Tom Schwerdtfeger (Leduc County)

� Laurie Guyot (Parks Canada – Elk Island National Park)

� Maureen Shenher (Parks Canada – Elk Island National Park)

In addition, there were over seventy individual stakeholders of the Beaver Hills who participated in workshops, provided information and/or attended interviews. These stakeholders included private tourism operators, agencies and institutions, tourism marketers, municipalities, Chambers of Commerce, Economic Development offices, agritourism and culture groups, outdoor recreation group representatives from academia (University of Alberta) and numerous volunteers who were members of organizations that currently provide programs and events within the Beaver Hills. All deserve appreciation and

acknowledgement in completing this work. These stakeholders are acknowledged in Appendix 4.

The consultants who undertook research and formulated the initial assessment report [Feb 2011] included:

� Randall Conrad (RC Strategies Inc)

� Robert Gibbs (EIDOS Consultants Inc)

� Robert Parks (RC Strategies Inc)

� Ryerson and Susan Christie (XIE & Associates Ltd)

� Michael Mitchell (True North Geomatics)

� Ross McTaggart (EIDOS Consultants Inc)

Travel Alberta

BEAVER HILLS INITIATIVE

Contributors to the GIS Geo-database

The Beaver Hills geo-database for the study was assembled from a number of sources and the following individuals and organizations are acknowledged for their contributions in addition to the steering committee members:

� Bill Souter (O2 Planning and Design)

Ŧ Source Recreation and Tourism Features Inventory (RTFI) for the North Saskatchewan River Region

� Hiroo Sawada (Parks Canada – Elk Island National Park)

Ŧ Beaver Hills Initiative GIS Base Maps, Biophysical data, Land-Use Mapping and QA/QC analyses

� Duke Hunter (Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation)

Ŧ Provincial Data Sources

� Erik Damkjar (Alberta Culture and Community Spirit)

Ŧ Provincial Data Sources

� Candace Vanin (Agriculture & Agri-food Canada)

Ŧ QA/QC review, GIS mapping and final report edits/layout [Jan 2012]

� A variety of photographs are used in the production of this report to provide the reader with an appreciation for the Beaver Hills region. These photographs were taken by the consulting team. Additional photographs, sourced from the Travel Alberta Library, were used to help illustrate the potential opportunities described herein.

� Many thanks to the comprehensive editorial review completed by Lori Clapp, Strathcona County, as well as members of the BHI's Tourism Working & Implementation Group and the BHI's Planners' Working Group

the beaver hills tourism development opportunity assessment

The Beaver Hills Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment was commissioned by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation (ATPR) in collaboration with the Beaver Hills Initiative (BHI), a stakeholder group which includes the five rural municipalities in the region, Elk Island National Park, the University of Alberta, ATPR, academia, industry, and non government organizations (NGOs). For a detailed list of BHI partners, refer to its website (www.beaverhills.ab.ca)

This assessment provides a proposed vision for sustainable tourism development in one of the most unique regions of North America. It sets the stage for the ongoing protection and sustainable tourism and recreation management of an area that is under consideration as an International Biosphere Reserve under the Man and Biosphere Program (MAB) of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Sustainable tourism development guidelines and management practices are applicable to all forms of tourism, in all types of destinations, including mass tourism and the various niche tourism segments. Sustainability principles refer to the economic, environmental and socio-cultural aspects of tourism development, and a suitable balance must be established between these three dimensions to guarantee its long term sustainability.

In order to provide particular clarity and focus to this study, with Canadian context, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada's definition of sustainable tourism is as follows: "Sustainable tourism actively fosters appreciation and stewardship of the natural, cultural and historic resources and special places by local residents, the tourism industry, governments and visitors. It is tourism which is viable over the long term because it results in a net benefit for the social, economic, natural and cultural environments of the areas in which it takes place (Tourism Industry Association of Canada/Parks Canada Agency)."

The proposed vision and the examples of potential sustainable tourism development contained herein adhere to the values of Beaver Hills stakeholders and, in fact, are a result of their direction, input and review as the Assessment unfolded over a five-month period commencing in October 2010.

The goal of this project is the completion of a Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment, including aquisition of an existing tourism features inventory for the Beaver Hills, supported by a sustainable nature-based tourism business analysis for potential tourism opportunity development in the Beaver Hills.

The project's objective is to identify appropriate opportunities for tourism development in the Beaver Hills while retaining the unique natural ecosystem and landscape character of the area and adhering to the values of nature-based tourism. The opportunities, as well, need to be seen as feasible to the BHI and key stakeholders in the region. Specific objectives are:

Travel Alberta


patricia.macklin

Highlight

patricia.macklin

Highlight

� To identify the potential market demands, trends and potential tourism types and associated opportunities for development

� To identify potential opportunities to diversify the rural economy

� To identify potential opportunities to expand the tourism season into shoulder seasons

� To identify potential gaps in the current tourism products and services offered � To identify potential recommendations for what sustainable nature-based tourism in the Beaver Hills may look like by 2015.

The uniqueness of the Beaver Hills—or the Cooking Lake Moraine as it is often referred—is that it is a 1600 sq km region of spectacular landscapes, abundant wildlife, nature-based recreation opportunities, rich history and authentic and traditional local culture, all situated on the doorstep of the Alberta Capital Region, one of Canada’s most rapidly growing centres.

The forested region rich in wetlands, wildlife and protected park areas faces unprecedented land-use demands from all sectors including recreation, conservation, industry, agriculture, and both urban and rural residential. Recreation and tourism use of the area is growing and will likely increase as the regional market moves from 1.0 million to a predicted 1.5 million residents over the next 20 years.

From a recreation and tourism perspective the Beaver Hills already contains many nature-based, heritage, cultural and agri-tourism assets and offerings. The most noted and the most visited nature-based locations within the region are Elk Island National Park, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Grazing Reserve and Provincial Recreation Area, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, the Strathcona Wilderness Centre and the Ministik Game Bird Sanctuary.

The rural countryside which is travelled through en route to these destinations is made up of both natural and anthropogenic landscapes including farms, acreages, hamlets, a number of lakes, woodlots, environmentally sensitive areas and conservation sites that, for the most part, abut lake areas. It is in this portion of the Beaver Hills where the visitor is most likely to discover the rich history and culture of the area and also where much of the agritourism-based resources will be found. The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village stands out as a unique provincial resource in the Beaver Hills demonstrating the importance of conservation, history, and culture for the region attracting in excess of 50,000 visitors per year.

Annual recreation and tourism visitation to the Beaver Hills is likely well beyond one million visits. Managed parks and recreation areas and the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village combined accounted for over 650,000 annual visits (annual counts provided by operators). Visits to countryside destinations like u-picks, farmers markets, food markets, greenhouses and events are estimated at between 100,000 and 300,000 visits. The estimates are based upon a fraction of City of Edmonton residents who visit the


patricia.macklin

Highlight

countryside on multiple return visits.1

There are many local market area residents who regard the Beaver Hills as nature on the doorstep and it is likely that many who have discovered this unique area are apt to keep it a secret for fear that its pristine nature and biodiversity will be compromised. The future challenge for managers and stakeholders of this area, recognizing that population growth, expanded awareness and ultimately increased recreation and tourism visitation will occur, is to prepare tourism development strategies that encourage an ecotourism ethic. This in turn will attract visitation by tourists who appreciate biodiversity, protection and sustainability of the ecosystem; want to enjoy nature, heritage and agritourism experiences; and look to learn and contribute in some way to a diverse region made up of a working and lived-in landscape.

For the purpose of this document, sustainable nature-based tourism ethic promoting eco-tourism, heritage/cultural tourism and agri-tourism are the themes of focus. The primary theme for development is one of sustainable nature-based tourism and while this provides focus to the parks and protected areas that make up the Beaver Hills, this theme also recognizes that many opportunities exist to enhance and build upon countryside agritourism, cultural and heritage resources.

The expanding market of tourists who will visit the Beaver Hills over the next decade will likely be, for the most part, from the Alberta Capital Region. However, once exposure of the Beaver Hills as a central Alberta tourism destination region occurs, and even more so if it is declared as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a broader market of provincial, national and even international visitors will likely form part of the market. Of certainty is that parks managers have experienced increased visitation and expect this trend to continue.

Future visitors will be not unlike the majority of those who currently visit the region—outdoor recreationalists, bird watchers, naturalists, cross-country skiers, nature photographers, horseback riders, and those seeking nature experiences and locally produced food products. They fall into these tourism related types identified for sustainable tourism development in the area:

� Nature-based Tourism (Ecotourism, Adventure Tourism, Wildlife Tourism)

� Heritage/Cultural Tourism (includes Aboriginal Tourism)

� Agritourism

Nature-based TourismNature-based tourism is any sustainable tourism activity or experience that is directly related to natural attractions or the natural environment, whether for relaxation, discovery or adventure. (South Australian Tourism Commission and South Australian Department for Environment and Heritage)Heritage

Nature-based tourism is a distinct form of travel that is focused on the experience of natural systems. Nature-based tourists seek connection and engagement with natural landscapes looking for authenticity,

1 "Tourism in Edmonton's Countryside in 2008"; Econometric Research Ltd.; 2010.

Travel Alberta


patricia.macklin

Highlight

patricia.macklin

Highlight

immersion, challenge and education as well as a sense of distance from settlement or real remoteness, engagement with locals and the variety and contrast of the natural environment with their daily lives. Further, nature-based tourists want to know that their activities are sustainable and that future generations will be able to enjoy what they came to see. (Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment)

The six most common types of identified nature-based tourism are ecotourism, adventure tourism, captive tourism (zoos, botanical gardens), extractive tourism (fishing, hunting), wildlife tourism (birding, polar bears) and nature retreats.

Heritage/Cultural TourismHeritage/Cultural tourism is traveling to experience the places and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present which includes historic, cultural and natural attractions. Cultural heritage tourism is a personal encounter with traditions, history, and culture and is based upon the concept that each community has a story to tell. It is directed towards experiencing the local customs, traditions, arts, history, sites, and culture that authentically represent a particular place. (The National Trust for Historic Preservation)

Cultural heritage tourism is defined as an immersion in the natural history, human heritage, arts, philosophy and institutions of a region or country. (United Nations World Tourism Organization)

Agri-tourismAgri-tourism provides direct involvement between the tourist or consumer and the agricultural community. There is the opportunity to engage in a direct exchange of values between the tourist and the farm community.

In all cases, the allocation and description of the opportunities found within the Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment for the Beaver Hills is based on a preliminary inventory, and is a descriptive exercise only, and is not an evaluation - it is based on a desk-top study. It does not attempt to assess or evaluate whether the identified enterprises within this study comply with the sustainable tourism criteria. This study is based on the best information available at the time. The degree of potential for all sustainable tourism opportunities often rests with more in-depth feasibility analysis such as land-use authority policy changes, project viability, land availability, overall on-site environmental and biophysical analysis, and organizational development. The future market will seek a wide spectrum of accommodation for short stays (2-5 days) ranging from basic tent camping to higher-end fixed roof accommodation located in or adjacent to nature-based resources. Recreation Vehicle (RV) campers will seek campground facilities with ample room, upgraded camping standards and direct access to regional trail systems and water based resources.

The analysis of gaps and opportunities has revealed that while the assets and opportunities for agritourism, nature-based and heritage/culture-based tourism exist throughout the Beaver Hills at varying levels, there is room for improvement. This is evident particularly in advertising and marketing, wherein, many operators and organizations that provide tourism destination experiences, sale of good and/or provide programs and events do not collaborate in marketing the Beaver Hills as a unified region of tourism experiences. Some are aligned with one or the other destination marketing organizations and others are more localized in their attempts to market products and opportunities.


patricia.macklin

Highlight

patricia.macklin

Highlight

patricia.macklin

Highlight

Travel Alberta

Education and awareness of the Beaver Hills as a whole, as well as the opportunities outlined within this assessment, serve as excellent resources and a spring board to formalize a Beaver Hills Tourism Working Group. This group will coordinate needed tourism activities amongst stakeholders through a Strategic Tourism Development and Marketing Plan for the region.

Gaps in accommodation for nature-based tourism markets have been identified. This pertains to the need, and opportunity, for existing administrators of public campgrounds to focus on upgrades to their facilities that are presently more in line with overnight camper needs. It also suggests that opportunities exist for private campground operators to consider the development of overnight accommodation facilities ranging from rustic cabins to tent sites or yurts in areas that provide direct access to the network of trails in the Beaver Hills. Higher quality accommodation that supports nature-based education, interpretation and scientific study is seen to be a requirement in the future. The recommended approach is to plan for, and develop, a Beaver Hills Centre for Discovery that caters to short-stay ecotourism travellers on a regional, provincial, national and international level.


While the agritourism sector, which includes but is not limited to, farmers' markets, u-picks, greenhouses, retailers of local products, agricultural events, berry farms and riding stables, has become well established over time, there are opportunities for new development to collaborate and consolidate outlets in common locations. The Beaver Hills Village Market Concept is recommended as an opportunity for the future of agritourism and its associated stakeholders.

Another opportunity to be considered for the future is the Centre for Sustainable Living. This concept model portrays a resource operated for tourists and area residents (urban and rural) to experience and learn about sustainable living and land management, conservation planning, ecology and biodiversity, the environment, nature, traditional knowledge, heritage traditions and agricultural best practices.

The human heritage, history and cultural mosaic of the Beaver Hills area has been found to be most evident in the preservation of historic buildings, museums located on the fringe of the area, churches and commemorative cairns and structures. The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village stands out as an excellent and well known attraction of the Beaver Hills when it comes to Ukrainian history and settlement.

Lacking in the Beaver Hills are mechanisms that serve to coordinate these many cultural resources and to market the authentic valuable ecotourism aspects of the region as a whole. Also lacking is the history and authentic portrayal of Aboriginal and Métis cultures and the cultures associated with European settlement (other than Ukrainian).

Many opportunities exist to improve upon the delivery of Beaver Hills’ history and culture. Again, these are dependent upon greater collaboration and marketing of products and offerings by existing providers. It is believed that the success of the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village serves as a template to consider the planning for, and development of, a Heritage Village to attract tourists and to expose the region’s rich heritage.

The key opportunities presented in this Assessment will hopefully outline the potential for tourism development that conforms to the objectives of the BHI, the Province and the many independent recreation and tourism operators of the Beaver Hills. None will happen overnight. Success depends upon the commitment by all involved, resources, and political support to coordinate and steer development through a well planned tourism strategy.


patricia.macklin

Highlight

I. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I

II. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY II

III. TABLE OF CONTENTS V

1.0 BACKGROUND 1

1.1 THE PROJECT 1

1.2 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 1

1.3 THE PROCESS 3

1.4 THE STUDY AREA – AN OVERVIEW OF THE BEAVER HILLS 3

2.0 RECREATION AND TOURISM FEATURES 11

2.1 TOURISM-RELATED ASSETS 11

2.2 TOURISM-RELATED EVENTS AND OFFERINGS 19

3.0 SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS – RECREATION AND TOURISM IN BEAVER HILLS TODAY 20

3.1 SITUATIONAL SUMMARY 21

3.2 SWOT ANALYSIS 24

3.3 TOURISM MARKET STATISTICS AND HIGHLIGHTS 28

3.4 MARKET SEGMENT 31

3.5 MARKET GROWTH 37

4.0 GAPS AND OPPORTUNITIES 37

4.1 NATURE-BASED GAPS & OPPORTUNITIES 38

4.2 AGRITOURISM GAPS & OPPORTUNITIES 40

4.3 HERITAGE/CULTURE GAPS & OPPORTUNITIES 41

5.0 KEY OPPORTUNITIES 42

5.1 GENERAL 42

5.2 A CASE FOR NATURE-BASED TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT 45

5.3 NEXT STEPS 45

5.4 KEY TOURISM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 47

IV. APPENDICES 61

APPENDIX 1 TOURISM-RELATED EVENTS AND OFFERINGS 62

APPENDIX 2 RECREATION AND TOURISM FEATURES INVENTORY 66

APPENDIX 3 INVENTORY OF RESOURCES 71

APPENDIX 4 STAKEHOLDER GROUPS CONSULTED 73


1.0 BACKGROUND

1.1 THe ProjeCT

Through their Product Development Branch, Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation are working in partnership with the Beaver Hills Initiative (BHI) in an award-winning effort to advance land-use planning in the Beaver Hills to include social, economic and ecological factors – equally.

The BHI is a working partnership of the region’s land-use/land management authorities and includes the five municipalities in which the Beaver Hills is located (Strathcona, Lamont, Beaver, Camrose and Leduc Counties); Parks Canada (Elk Island Nation Park), Alberta Tourism Parks and Recreation (Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Grazing, Wildlife and Provincial Recreation Area [later referred to in this study as the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area], Miquelon Lake Provincial Park), the Ministik Lake Provincial Game Bird Sanctuary and Miquelon Lake Bird Sanctuary operated by Alberta Sustainable Resources Development (SRD).

Demands on the landscape by all sectors and growth in the Alberta Capital Region has prompted the Province and the BHI to identify opportunities for appropriate tourism development that work toward building the region as a sustainable nature-based tourism destination. This Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment will guide land managers when considering municipal, private, public businesses and not-for-profit investments well into the future. It is also timely in that it supports a primary initiative of the BHI to achieve designation of the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere Reserve under the Man and Biosphere Program (MAB) of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This designation—described later—will no doubt draw greater attention to the region by a global nature-based ecotourism market. It is the hope of the BHI partners that, with this designation, the Beaver Hills will be part of the international web of Biosphere Reserves sharing heritage, science, knowledge and experience, and ultimately contribute to a global nature-based tourism market.

1.2 GoAls ANd objeCTives

GOAL

To complete a Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment supported by a sustainable nature-based tourism business analysis for the Beaver Hills.

OBJECTIVES

� To identify appropriate opportunities for tourism development in the Beaver Hills in keeping with retention of the unique natural ecosystem and landscape character of the area while adhering to the values of nature-based tourism and seen as feasible to the BHI and key stakeholders in the region

� To identify the market demands, trends and potential tourism types and associated opportunities for development

� To identify opportunities to diversify the rural economy

� To identify opportunities to expand the tourism season into shoulder seasons

� To identify gaps in the current tourism products and services offered


1.3 THe ProCess

The work involved a three-phase process designed to engage stakeholders throughout thereby ensuring that outcomes were representative of the majority of groups, organizations and individuals who work, or have a vested interest in the Beaver Hills (refer to appendix for list of stakeholder groups represented during the workshop sessions)

PHASE 1

This phase was completed through the use of secondary publications review, interviews and site visits. Its component parts included:

� Inventory and maps of tourism assets, features and offerings currently located within the BHI study area

� Analysis of the tourism market as it pertains to the Beaver Hills

� SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) Analysis relative to tourism in the Beaver Hills

� Preparation of a Situational Analysis Report

PHASE 2

Based upon the market and situational analysis, preliminary gaps and opportunities in nature-based, agritourism-based and heritage/cultural-based tourism were identified within the region. Preliminary findings were presented to stakeholders at an initial workshop for confirmation and to gain additional insight about potential opportunities. Subsequent to this a second workshop was held to confirm key proposed opportunities. These opportunities were further refined to address input of stakeholders.

PHASE 3

Recommended Tourism Opportunities were finalized and Tourism Business and Product Development Opportunity Profiles of five key tourism opportunities were prepared.

1.4 The STudy AreA – An Overview Of The BeAver hillSFigure 1 (opposite page 1) shows the Beaver Hills in context with the greater Edmonton region. It encompasses an area close to 1600 sq km, four and one half times the size of Cypress Hills Provincial Park located in southern Alberta, two and one half times the size of Lakeland Provincial Park and Recreation Area in northeastern Alberta and close to half the size of Kananaskis Country, Alberta’s premier park destination.

While the largest portion of the area is settled with farms, small acreage subdivisions and hamlets, 26.6% of lands are designated as protected area through legislation by Provincial and Federal Governments and are maintained in their natural state. There are also many areas that are protected through conservation easements. From a tourism perspective these lands are valued as nature-based outdoor recreation destinations for a day-use short-stay market of over 1 million people that will likely grow to 1.4 million over the next 10-year period.

Figure 2 (on page 2) provides a closer look at the Beaver Hills, outlining the current land-uses and jurisdictional boundaries of land-use and management authorities. The BHI through its nomination of the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere Reserve (see page 9) have identified the three key zones which by definition are essential to Biosphere Reserve status.

1. Core Area—this area consists of one or more strictly and legally protected areas, such as a national park or a provincial park. The Core Area acts as a reference point on the natural state of the ecosystem(s) that the Biosphere Reserve presents.


2. Buffer Area—this surrounds or is adjacent to the Core Area(s). The use and management of the Buffer Area emphasize conservation, and where activities compatible and supportive of the conservation aims of the Core Area(s) are practised and studied.

3. Transition Area/Zone of Cooperation—this area is usually the largest part of the Biosphere Reserve and surrounds the Core and Buffer Areas. The Transition Area comprises the lived-in and working landscape where most of the residents live and work, and where there is a cooperative effort to advance and demonstrate the sustainable use of natural resources while living in harmony with nature.

This region, often referred to as the Beaver Hills Cooking Lake Moraine, is unique from a geological, biophysical and historical perspective. The following are excerpts taken from the Beaver Hills Heritage Appreciation Development Plan, 2004.

GEOMORPHOLOGY

The Beaver Hills are a hummocky moraine that formed when the retreating continental glacier left a huge block of ice stranded on a low rise of land. The slow melting of the ice block resulted in the low hills and many lakes and ponds of the area, known as knob and kettle topography. Because the moraine is at a higher elevation than the surrounding landscape, it receives slightly higher annual precipitation and has a cooler climate.

NATURAL FEATURES

These conditions support different vegetation than the surrounding landscape and form an island of dry mixed-wood forest (a sub-region of the boreal forest eco-zone). Once heavily forested with pockets of white spruce, forest fires created a transition from old-growth forest to aspen poplar, which predominates the region today.

The Beaver Hills are part of the most significant portion of North American water fowl production—the prairie pothole region of Canada and the Northern United States. The Canada Land Inventory has assessed many parts of the area at highest possible habitat quality. Nowhere else in Alberta is there such an area of high-quality water fowl habitat and boreal forest found in close proximity to a major urban centre.

The same holds true for ungulates such as white-tailed deer, moose, elk and bison—the latter two are managed and protected within Elk Island National Park. There are claims that there are more ungulates per square kilometre in the Beaver Hills than exist anywhere else in North America. Game hunting is allowed with a permit in the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area and on private lands (with permission) throughout the area.

Beaver Hills


CULTURAL FEATURES

The Beaver Hills, as stated, is comprised of a broad mix of land-uses, including lands that are managed to ensure the sustainability of natural processes, birds, wildlife and controlled access for various forms of outdoor recreation; lands that are privately owned, cultivated, farmed, lived on and/or established for food production; lands that are publicly owned within rural settings and developed for recreational/cultural activities and the social well-being of residents; and finally, lands that are privately owned and utilized to provide retail services to residents and the travelling public (convenience stores, restaurants, gas stations, market gardens, specialty stores, bed & breakfasts, riding stables, campgrounds and u-picks).

The region is also one of rich human heritage with many heritage organizations, municipalities, cultures and tourism associations involved in interpreting history and settlement of the Beaver Hills through museums, preservation of buildings/ artifacts and active interpretive and education programming such as that found at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. From the original First Nations inhabitants, through European settlement and up to the present day, the region abounds with a wide array of both well established and exciting new opportunities for Heritage Tourism.

PLANNING FOR THE REGION

land-Use Framework

The Provincial Land-Use Framework is a comprehensive strategy to better manage public and private lands and natural resources to achieve Alberta’s long-term economic, environmental and social goals. As a blueprint for land-use, land management and decision making, the desired outcomes are people-friendly communities with ample recreational and cultural opportunities, conservation and stewardship of the land base. These outcome objectives are definitely consistent with the objectives of the BHI and their ongoing work in modelling the land-use framework at a bioregional level.

North saskatchewan regional Plan

The planning strategy for the North Saskatchewan Regional Plan [NSRP] recognizes the region as one of Alberta’s most popular destinations for international and interprovincial visitors. It acknowledges that the proximity to Edmonton, open rural character and historic villages, townships and cities contribute to its importance as a tourism destination. To meet the demand for additional and increasingly diverse land- and water-based recreation and tourism opportunities in the North Saskatchewan region, a strategic methodology for identifying spatially significant recreation and tourism areas1 to inform multi-scale local, regional, and provincial land-use planning has been incorporated.

The variety and quality of primary industry products from the region also presents considerable tourism opportunities, most notably in the area of nature-based tourism (e.g. ecotourism). The tourism weakness in the region is the lack of recognition by the tourism market of the rich natural and cultural assets. The challenge for the region’s tourism industry is to add value sensitively to these assets to meet the growing demand for unspoiled and authentic destinations. The Beaver Hills region is positioned rather well in addressing this particular challenge.

1 Recreation Tourism Area Definition: Local, regional, and provincially significant areas containing attractive, scarce, unique, and/or sensitive natural and built features, settings and scenery that currently, or have the potential to, support a range of recreational or tourism development opportunities.


patricia.macklin

Highlight

Beaver Hills

North saskatchewan Watershed Alliance integrated Watershed Management Plan [iWMP]

The NSWA's IWMP will provide watershed information and advice to the Government of Alberta and all stakeholders in order to protect, maintain and restore the North Saskatchewan watershed; and to balance environmental, social and economic needs in order to achieve the three goals of the provincial Water for Life Strategy. The three goals include: 1) safe, secure drinking water, 2) healthy aquatic ecosystems and 3) reliable, quality water supplies for a sustainable economy. Tourism, cultural and recreation activities are dependent upon healthy aquatic ecosystems and the landscapes that support them, including riparian areas, lakes and fisheries. Alignment of the IWMP with North Saskatchewan Regional Plan and the Alberta Capital Region Plan is anticipated. Alignment and support for the NSWA's IWMP at the local government level is greater than 75% as indicated by a recent NSWA survey of municipalities within the basin.

Capital region Plan

The plan will deal with four main priorities that impact the region including regional land-use planning, inter-municipal transit planning, information services and affordable housing. Secondary priorities include planning and monitoring of water and waste management, policing, emergency services, social services, recreation and tourism, and economic development.

The Beaver Hills region has an opportunity to deliver on a number of these priorities. As a result of the location and uniqueness of the Beaver Hills, it has the potential to be an iconic destination for sustainable nature-based tourism and a major draw for the Capital Region.

beaver Hills initiative land Management Framework

The BHI is taking what is defined as a Protected Landscapes approach to the Beaver Hills, which is a multi-jurisdictional landscape. In this approach the protected areas (core zones) are complemented and supported by a conservation-oriented approach to the surrounding lived-in and working landscape (buffer and transition zones). By assessing aspects like wildlife linkages, water bodies and critical habitat for the entire area, the BHI partners hope to guide change in their own jurisdictions.

Their plan is not statutory by law, but process oriented in directing involved land-use authorities to protect biodiversity and the natural capital of the area in conjunction with enhancing the area's social and economic viability and quality of life. Land-use planning and permitted use of lands are closely linked to assessing the types and location of future tourism opportunities and infrastructure.

Beaver Hills


TOURISM PLANNING AND INITIATIVES IN THE REGION

The broader Edmonton Region, and Central Alberta as a whole, continues to grow and develop. The Beaver Hills will, no doubt, evolve as a key sustainable nature-based tourism destination within Central Alberta. This is occurring and will continue in lockstep with complementary plan initiatives, which include the following:

� The Recreation and Tourism Facilities Inventory (RTFI) is a comprehensive inventory database and mapping project currently underway by the Tourism Product Development Branch of Alberta Tourism Parks and Recreation. The RTFI has been undertaken for the North Saskatchewan River Basin and includes the Beaver Hills sub-region.

� The North Saskatchewan River has been nominated as a Canadian Heritage River and the River Valley Alliance Implementation Plan spanning from Devon to Fort Saskatchewan (which is located just northwest of the Beaver Hills and connected by the Ross Creek leg of the Waskahegan trail) is continuing in its development.

� The Boomtown Trail continues to evolve from a tourism development standpoint. It connects the southern portion of the Beaver Hills to the south through Camrose and stimulates additional recreation, agritourism and cultural tourism opportunities.

� The Tourism Development Strategy of Kalyna Country Tourism and the many ecotourism opportunities that emanate from the strategy and its relationship between the towns, villages and countryside bordering the north and east of the Beaver Hills are important.

� The Trails Strategy Plan for Strathcona County, currently underway, will identify both urban and rural trails and trail corridor strategies which will link recreational resources, agritourism resources and nature-based tourism areas with current and proposed trail systems and infrastructure within the core areas (protected lands) of the Beaver Hills.

Beaver Hills


� The Elk Island National Park Management Plan will outline the ways in which visitor services, amenities and infrastructure will be improved over the next 10 years.

� Tourism market strategies and supports to the overall tourism industry continue to evolve by agencies and organizations such as:

Ŧ Kalyna Country Tourism (destination marketing organization)

Ŧ The Boomtown Trail Association (destination marketing organization)

Ŧ The Edmonton Regional Tourism Group (Edmonton countryside marketing and tourism development support)

Ŧ The economic development and tourism departments, boards and committees of all regional municipalities (localized municipal marketing and development initiatives)

Ŧ Local chambers of commerce within the region (tourism marketing and support for the business community)

Ŧ The many outdoor recreational, cultural and agritourism societies and interest groups within the region

Ŧ Travel Alberta (province-wide destination marketing organization)

Beaver Hills


patricia.macklin

Highlight

NOMINATION OF THE BEAVER HILLS FOR DESIGNATION AS A BIOSPHERE RESERVE

The BHI is preparing a nomination for designation of the Beaver Hills as a Biosphere Reserve under the Man and Biosphere Program (MAB) of the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Successful designation will provide international recognition of the Beaver Hills, not only with respect to the ecological integrity of the protected areas within the region but also in the way in which land-use planning and environmental management practices promote sustainable tourism development and demonstrate the way in which humans can live and work in harmony with nature. The Beaver Hills qualifies for designation based upon the following:

� It encompasses a mosaic of ecological systems representative of major biogeographic regions, including a gradation of human interventions.

� It is of significance for biological diversity conservation.

� It provides opportunities to explore and demonstrate approaches to sustainable development on a regional scale.

� It is of appropriate size (1600 sq km) to serve the three functions of Biosphere Reserves recognizing:

Ŧ a core area or areas devoted to longer term protection and which is legally constituted (e.g. Elk Island National Park and Miquelon Lake Provincial Park)

Ŧ a buffer zone or zones surrounding or contiguous to the core areas and where only activities compatible with conservation objectives occur (e.g. Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area) and an outer transition area where sustainable resource management practices are promoted and developed (e.g. rural municipal countryside)

� Organizational arrangements and leadership is undertaken by a multi-jurisdictional organization (the BHI) with provision and future intent to develop and promote mechanisms to manage human use and activities in the buffer zone, implementation of recommended policies and plans and the provision of research, monitoring, education and training.


2.0 RECREATION AND TOURISM FEATURES

The Beaver Hills contains a significant number of recreation and tourism features and offerings. They are located in areas that span the five counties - Beaver County, Camrose County, Lamont County, Leduc County and Strathcona County, and include some of the towns in the area as well.1 Elk Island National Park has been specifically identified within each tourism category where appropriate. The inventory includes those found in both the primary study area (Beaver Hills Moraine) and the secondary study area (settled lands and communities adjacent to the study area boundary).

For the purposes of this study the identified features and offerings have been classified into one of three themed categories—agritourism, nature-based tourism and heritage/culture tourism. These themes have been chosen as they best reflect not only the overall objectives of the BHI and the Province to promote ecotourism in the Beaver Hills, but they also typify the state of offerings that currently exist. It is important to note that some of the identified opportunities may be classified into multiple tourism categories; however, for this study, any of those multi-category opportunities are included in a single category (e.g. the Ardrossan Recreation Complex hosts functions of the Ardrossan Recreation and Agricultural Society. Because of this, the recreation rentre has been included in the agritourism category). These features and offerings have been identified and inventoried using published visitors and events guides, contact and interviews with stakeholders of the region including direct contact with some operators.

The tourism features inventory was developed in collaboration with records from Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Agriculture & Agri-food Canada, and the Beaver Hills Initiative. Quality assurance and quality control assessment of the Recreation & Tourism Features Inventory (RTFI) database for the Beaver Hills Initiatve study area was completed by Parks Canada and Agriculture & Agri-food Canada and mapped using Geographic Information System (GIS). While attempts have been made to identify all known assets and offerings, some may have been missed due to outdated source information and the ongoing evolution of new developments. Further explanations of sub-categories are provided in the appendices.

2.1 TOURISM-RELATED ASSETS

AGRITOURISM

Agritourism provides direct involvement between the tourist or consumer and the agricultural community. There is the opportunity to engage in a direct exchange of values between the tourist and the farm community.2 This can occur through numerous opportunities as presented in Figure 3 (opposite page) and documented below.

beaver County

Accommodation

Ŧ Lindbrook Stargazer Campground

Farms

Ŧ Bardo Country Berry Farm (Tofield)

Ŧ Verry Berry Honey

Ŧ Cindy’s Berry Patch

1 Opportunities that are located in a town are noted as such. They are included in the list of opportunities for the county within which the town resides.2 http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/apa547

Garden Centres/Greenhouses

Ŧ Lions Garden

Recreation Facilities

Ŧ Tofield Rodeo Grounds

Retail

Ŧ Tofield Farmers' Market


patricia.macklin

Highlight

AGRITOURISM ASSETS CONTINUED

Camrose County

Accommodation

Ŧ Bluebird RV Park


Ŧ Glen View Greenhous

lamont County


Ŧ Theil’s Greenhouse (Bruderheim)


Ŧ Bruderheim Agricultural Grounds (Bruderheim)

Ŧ Lamont Recreation Complex (Lamont)

Retail

Ŧ Old Country Sausage (Bruderheim)

Ŧ Ross Creek Market

strathcona County

Accommodation

Ŧ Prairie Sunset Bed & Breakfast

Ŧ Suffolk House Bed & Breakfast

Equine/Stables

Ŧ Keno Hills Stables

Ŧ Legacy Ridge Equine Centre

Ŧ Sandridge Stables

Ŧ Colchester Stables

Farms

Ŧ A-5 Berry Farm

Ŧ Alberta Country Orchards

Ŧ Dirt Willy Game Bird Farm & Hatchery

Ŧ Fruit Fields Forever

Ŧ Still Meadows Ranch


Ŧ Aspen Ridge Greenhouses

Ŧ Country Road Greenhouses

Ŧ Greenland Garden Centre

Ŧ Hastings Lake Gardens

Ŧ Salisbury Greenhouses

Ŧ Wallish Greenhouse

Ŧ South Cooking Lake Greenhouse

Ŧ Stocks Greenhouse & Berry Farm


Ŧ Ardrossan Recreation Complex

Ŧ Josephburg Gymkhana Grounds

Ŧ Moyer Recreation Centre

Ŧ South Cooking Lake Recreation Centre

Retail

Ŧ Barr Estate Winery

Ŧ Country Boyz Treasure Chest

Ŧ Country Style Meats

Ŧ Kastelen Sausage & Fine Meats

Ŧ Sherwood Park Farmers' Markets (several locations)


NATURE-BASED TOURISM ASSETS

Nature-based tourism is any sustainable tourism activity or experience that is directly related to natural attractions or the natural environment, whether for relaxation, discovery, or adventure.3 Nature-based tourism involves connection and engagement with natural landscapes for people who are looking for authenticity, immersion and education as well as a sense of distance from settlements. Locations are shown on Figure 4 (on page 14). Examples of nature-based tourism are identified below.

beaver County

Accommodations

Ŧ Black Nugget Campground

Ŧ Buzzard Gulch Campground

Ŧ Tofield Campground

Education

Ŧ Beaverhill Lake Nature Centre (Tofield)

Miscellaneous

Ŧ Tofield Airport

Recreation

Ŧ Beaver Hill Lodge

Ŧ Sherwood Park Fish & Game Gun Range

Ŧ Tofield Golf & Country Club

Wilderness

Ŧ Beaver Hills Bird Observatory

Ŧ Ministik Game Bird Sanctuary

Ŧ Wilson Wildlife Habitat

Ŧ Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Recreation Area

Ŧ Waskahegan Staging Area

Ŧ Islet Lake Staging Area

Ŧ Blackfoot Lake Staging Area

Ŧ Central Staging Area

Ŧ Meadow Day Use Site

Ŧ Lost Lake Youth Group Site

Ŧ Running Dog Youth Group Site

3 South Australian Tourism Commission and South Australian Department for Environment and Heritage

Camrose County

Accommodations

Ŧ Blue Bird RV Park

Ŧ Miquelon Lake Provincial Park Campground

Recreation

Ŧ Miquelon Hills Golf Course

Ŧ Ackenberry Trout Farm

Wilderness

Ŧ Miquelon Lake Provincial Park

- Miquelon Lake Wildlands

elk island National Park

Accommodations

Ŧ Oster Lake Group Camp

Ŧ Sandy Beach Campground

Education

Ŧ Astotin Lake Interpretive Centre

Parks

Ŧ Tawayik Lake Day Use Area

Ŧ Astotin Lake Day Use Area

Recreation

Ŧ Elk Island Golf Course

lamont Counnty

Accommodations

Ŧ Lamont RV Park (Lamont)

Wilderness

Ŧ Bry Com Development Inc.


NATURE-BASED TOURISM ASSETS CONTINUED

leduc County

Parks

Ŧ Joseph Lake/Centennial Park

Recreation

Ŧ Bent Stick Golf Course (New Sarepta)

Ŧ Eagle Rock Golf Course

beaver Hills region-Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve partners include: -Elk Island National Park -Alberta Fish and Game Assoc -Strathcona Wilderness Centre -Miquelon Lake Provincial Park -Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area -Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

strathcona County

Accommodations

Ŧ Camp Van Es & Conference Centre

Ŧ Chipmunk Bed & Breakfast

Ŧ Elk Island Retreat Ltd.

Ŧ Half Moon Lake Resort

Ŧ Suffolk House Bed & Breakfast

Ŧ Kawtikh RV Retreat

Education

Ŧ Strathcona Wilderness Centre

Recreation

Ŧ Belvedere Golf & Country Club (Sherwood Park)

Ŧ Bent Stick Golf Course

Ŧ Broadmoor Public Golf Course (Sherwood Park)

Ŧ Countryside Golf Course

Ŧ Fox Run Golf Course

Ŧ Eagle Rock Golf Course

Ŧ Legends Gold & Country Club

Ŧ Long Shotz Driving Range (Sherwood Park)

Ŧ Northern Bear Golf Club (Sherwood Park)

Ŧ Sherwood Park Golf Course

Ŧ Sundowner's Golf Academy

Parks

Ŧ Strathcona Science Provincial Park

Ŧ South Cooking Lake Day Use Area


strathcona County

Historical

Ŧ Heritage Mile (Sherwood Park)

Ŧ Bremner House

Ŧ Fort Scott Memorial Cenotaph

Ŧ Lakeview Pavillion Fireplace

Ŧ St. Margaret’s Catholic Church

Miscellaneous

Ŧ Strathcona Olympiette Centre

Ŧ Ardrossan Recreation Complex

Ŧ Moyer Recreation Centre

Ŧ South Cooking Lake Airport

Ŧ Warren Thomas Aerodrome (Josephburg)

Ŧ Josephburg United Church of Christ

Ŧ many local community halls with historical significance

Food Services (historically themed)

Ŧ Firehall Diner

Ŧ Katie’s Crossing

Ŧ Country Boyz Teahouse

HERITAGE/CULTURE TOURISM ASSETS

Heritage/culture tourism involves places and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present, including historic, cultural and natural attractions. It is a personal encounter with traditions, history and culture and is based upon the concept that each community has a story to tell. Heritage tourism opportunities in the Beaver Hills are noted below. Locations are shown on Figure 5 (opposite page).

beaver County

Historical

Ŧ Friends of Blackfoot Interpretive Centre

Ŧ Tofield Historical Museum

Miscellaneous

Ŧ Tofield Airport

Food Services (historically themed)

Ŧ Footloose Caboose Restaurant

Camrose County

Historical

Ŧ Kingman Museum

Ŧ Telegraph Park


Historical

Ŧ Dominion Forest Ranger Station Cairn

Ŧ HSMBC Preservation of the Plains Bison Monument

Ŧ Park Superintendent's House

Ŧ St. Astotin Ukrainian Pioneer Cottage

Ŧ Amisk Wuche Trail Cairn

lamont County

Historical

Ŧ Monument to Wasyl Eleniak

Ŧ Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Ŧ Canadian Moravian Museum (Bruderheim)

Ŧ Skaro Shrine

Ŧ Walker School Museum (Bruderheim)

Miscellaneous

Ŧ LA Galleria

Spiritual (Churches of Lamont County Tour)

Ŧ Pope John Paul II Commemorative Plaque

Ŧ Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Ŧ Bruderheim Moravian Church

Ŧ Lamont United Church

Ŧ Lamont Alliance Church

Ŧ Russo-Greek Catholic Orthodox Church of St. John the Baptist

Ŧ St. Bonaventure Roman Catholic Church

Ŧ St. John the Baptist/Ukrainian Church

Ŧ St. Mary’s Holy Dormition Russo-Greek Orthodox Church


strathcona County

� Ardrossan Country Christmas & Craft Sale

� Ardrossan Parade & Picnic

� Bethany Church Nativity Display

� Birch Bay Ranch Open House

� Country Road Greenhouses – Tomato Fare

� Heartland Christmas Light-up

� Heartland Fiddle Jamboree

� Josephburg Christmas Craft Sale

� Josephburg Christmas Train

� Josephburg Chicken Supper

� Josephburg Presents

� Josephburg Gymkhana

� Sherwood Park Canada Day Festival

� Sherwood Park New Year's Eve Festival

� Strathcona Wilderness Centre

Ŧ Great Canadian Pastry Caper

Ŧ New Year’s Eve

Travel Alberta


2.2 TOuriSm-relATed evenTS And OfferingS

Aside from opportunities or assets in the Beaver Hills, there are a number of tourism events that occur throughout. Some of the events occur in areas that span a number of municipalities. Others are place-specific (Refer to the appendix for inventory of resources).

beaver Hills

� 5 Peaks Running Race – Blackfoot

� Blackfoot Ultra – Trail Race

� Fur and Feathers Tour

� Guided Waskahegan Trail Walks

� Ministik Guided Snowmobile Rides

� Municipal Canada Day Celebrations

� Parks Day

beaver County

� Beaver County Bounty

� Sodbuster Rodeo (Tofield)

� Snow Goose Chase Tours

Camrose County

� Alberta Challenge Triathlon

� Mission 3 Triathlon


� A Place for the Future

– Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve

� Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival

� Heritage Day

� Parks Day

� Winter Lights

leduc County

� Backyard Stampede

� Leduc West Antique Exposition

� Leduc West Country Harvest

� Cooking lake-blackfoot Provincial recreation Area

� Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival

lamont County

� Bruderheim Heartland Ag Days

� Bruderheim Craft Sale

� Bruderheim Skating Party

� Celebration of Dance

� Chipman Ag Society Old Time Fair

� Chipman Car Crafters 10th Annual Show n’ Shine

� Chipman Car Crunch and Coyote Run Motorcycle Rally

� County of Lamont Church Tours

� Harvest Hoe Down

� Lamont Bullarama Supreme

� Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo

� Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Ŧ Canada Day/Ivana Kupala Festival

Ŧ Celebration of Dance

Ŧ Feast of Jordan

Ŧ Friends of the Ukrainian Music Fest

Ŧ Harvest of the Past & Taste of Heritage Food Fest

Ŧ Historic Garden Tours

Ŧ Ukrainian Day


3.0 SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS — RECREATION

AND TOURISM IN THE BEAVER HILLS TODAY

The Beaver Hills, still referred to as the Cooking Lake Moraine by many, has evolved for the most part as a popular nature-based getaway for a more localized market consisting predominantly of Edmontonians and residents of nearby municipalities.

It is not viewed as a destination in itself, rather it is considered as a mix of destinations for families, individuals and special interest groups who enjoy day trips or weekend camping, visiting bed and breakfasts, and who engage in outdoor recreation activities, heritage/cultural experiences, nature interpretation, outdoor education, and countryside events, fairs, festivals, garden markets and greenhouses.

The most popular destinations within the area are Elk Island National Park, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, and the Strathcona Wilderness Centre (which operates year-round and attracts close to 60,000 visitors per year). These attractions collectively account for close to 460,000 visitations per year, most of which occur in the late spring and summer months. In winter months, the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, Elk Island National Park, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park and the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area become popular cross-country ski destinations. The latter also has some trails catering to snowmobilers and is the primary venue for the annual Birkebeiner cross-country ski event. Fifty percent of the total camping supply within the Beaver Hills exists within the core-protected areas of Elk Island National Park and Miquelon Lake Provincial Park. The remainder is dispersed on private campgrounds throughout the countryside and in small communities outside of managed park areas. There are close to 700 campsites located within the Beaver Hills. The Ministik Lake Game Bird Sanctuary is also a destination for snowmobilers where a regional snowmobile group grooms and maintains 105 km of trails.

Non-resident visitation to the Beaver Hills, or visitation by those not residing within the close-in market area (Edmonton and surrounding counties) is most likely for the purpose of pleasure, visiting friends and relatives or both.1 These visitors are most often found taking a day trip to either Elk Island National Park, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village and/or visiting one or more countryside destinations to attend a fair, festival, market garden or to purchase a unique home-made souvenir. In 2006, Elk Island National Park reported that approximately 19% of visitation

1 Tourism in Edmonton and Area Tourism Destination Region, 2008 Visitor Numbers and Characteristics, February 2010.Travel Alberta


patricia.macklin

Highlight

was from other parts of Canada or overseas. This closely corresponds to the 24% reported in the 2008 Edmonton and Area Tourism Destination Region Statistics Summary. The fact that Elk Island National Park is located within one-half hour driving time from Edmonton makes this key destination a major anchor of the Beaver Hills.

In early November 2010, a broad cross-section of close to 50 of the region’s tourism stakeholders were gathered in a workshop to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that they felt were important to the future development of tourism in the Beaver Hills. The results of this workshop are outlined in the following pages. At a follow-up workshop on December 6, 2010, the same stakeholders reviewed a number of key opportunities that were derived from the initial workshop. These key opportunities are outlined in Section 5.0 Key Opportunities. Through this dialogue and consultation it became very clear that the overall strengths of the Beaver Hills and subsequent themes upon which future tourism should be based were indeed nature-based tourism, agritourism and heritage/culture based tourism, all of which relate to the growing market of ecotourists. A situational summary is provided below followed by the actual workshop outcomes and comments.

3.1 SiTuATiOnAl SummAryNATURE-BASED THEMES AND RESOURCES

Throughout the Beaver Hills, nature-based activities are abundant. From a recreational perspective opportunities to golf, bicycle, picnic and generally recreate in the outdoors are evident within the countryside and hamlets located throughout the region. From a pure nature-based perspective, the protected areas of Elk Island National Park and Miquelon Lake Provincial Park as well as the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, Ministik Lake Game Bird Sanctuary, and the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, all serve as the most recognized destinations for local and regional residents to partake in nature-based activities.

It is these areas that, under management and protection, have evolved with the infrastructure to support nature-based activity and it is also these areas that, to the present day, define the Beaver Hills as a nature resource for a wide array of outdoor recreation and nature experiences for individuals, families and groups. Of interest is that these resources are most widely recognized by long-time residents of the area who are repeat visitors (i.e. 78% of visitation to Elk Island National Park in 2006 were repeat visitors). New residents to the area, predominately new Edmonton residents have yet to discover the nature within the Beaver Hills and even repeat visitors are likely unaware of the region's unique natural aspects and biodiversity.

Those parks that are managed within the core and buffer areas of the Beaver Hills provide an impressive array of nature-based opportunities in the form of nature interpretive programs, outdoor education, seasonal events and visitor services information. They also provide a substantial network of trails, day use areas and in the case of the national and provincial parks, overnight camping. The Strathcona Wilderness Centre located in the buffer zone just outside of the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area is also a great example of a municipal nature-based area that provides both programmed and spontaneously accessed nature recreation/tourism opportunities on a year-round basis.

Managers of the resources have stated that the existing offerings of nature-based program activities, day-use camping and trail systems have substantial capacity to accommodate more use than presently exists. They also recognize the need to enhance outdated existing visitor services facilities, expand nature-


Beaver Hills

based programming and improve upon regionally-based communication and marketing as crucial steps in expanding markets and subsequent tourism exposure to these unique natural environments.

This being the case, managers of park areas and regional stakeholders, while excited about increased tourism, recognize there are limits to growth and recommend a cautious approach to enhancing nature-based opportunities. A cautious approach would ensure the integrity of the resources but would introduce nature through a lens of appreciation, education, sustainable use and low impact design in well-placed locations throughout core and buffer zones of the Beaver Hills.

In summary, the nature-based assets of the Beaver Hills and the infrastructure that supports tourism and recreation use remain intact but require both physical enhancement and a well-planned approach that lies within the parameters of acceptable change in order that the ecological health and landscape character of the Beaver Hills are not compromised or unnecessarily disrupted. For example, existing campground and day-use areas, nature-based design for overnight stays and improved interpretive outlets within both wilderness areas and staging areas need to be examined. Also required, will be the need to expand upon both professional personnel and volunteers to plan and implement nature-based programming along with stronger regional networking to improve upon marketing for the entire region. Any actions to increase capacity for use or visitation within the Beaver Hills must be integrated and coordinated amongst all stakeholders.

AGRITOURISM THEMES AND RESOURCES

The transition zone of the Beaver Hills or that area best described as the rural countryside is characterized by smalle acreages, country residential developments, farms and hamlets. Large-scale, conventional annual crop production is somewhat limited, resulting in diverse activities such as fruit and vegetable production, apiculture (honey production), perennial crops such as forages and agroforestry, and livestock operations including poultry, cattle and horses. Records from Alberta Agriculture in 2006 have indicated that Strathcona County has one of the highest per capita concentrations of horse owners in Alberta.

There are six major berry farms that produce and retail berry products, 10 garden centres (greenhouses/nurseries), six farmers' markets held in areas within and just outside of the Beaver Hills, three locally produced meat processors/retailers, and six local recreation centres/arenas that support gymkhanas and local events throughout the year.

There are ample opportunities for local and regional residents and tourists to partake in agri-events and to purchase locally grown/manufactured farm products. There are few opportunities to actually learn about and/or become engaged in the experiences associated with local, naturally produced products. However, some exceptions do exist and are growing in popularity through programs and seminars offered through the more established greenhouse operators (e.g. landscaping, composting, etc.).


patricia.macklin

Highlight

patricia.macklin

Highlight

The ever evolving and growing number of locations and outlets to purchase farm-based and locally grown products is encouraging and acts as a strong foundation to expand and build agritourism products that create stronger and more experiential exchanges between the region’s operators, the farm community and tourists. These opportunities can and should be accelerated through greater communications and cooperative ventures amongst operators, increased support by, and use of, collaborative marketing and business development resources such as senior and local governments, local chambers of commerce and economic development and tourism agencies.

Finally, and over time, the market within the region for agritourism-based products will increase, particularly with an increase in the ecotourism market. This will create greater viability for larger more comprehensive farm stay vacation operations, agriculturally based interpretation facilities and equestrian centres and more. Positioning for such success in concert with the introduction and ongoing evolution of the Beaver Hills as a provincial, national and international ecotourism destination is timely.

HERITAGE/CULTURE THEMES AND RESOURCES

Through the efforts of park operators, local hamlets, community societies (including agricultural societies), area museums and heritage societies, the Beaver Hills provides a number of outlets for tourists to learn about Aboriginal history and European settlement of the Beaver Hills.

The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village stands out as the most pronounced heritage destination with close to 60,000 visitors per year partaking in cultural programs, events and tours depicting Ukrainian culture and early settlement within central and eastern Alberta.

Elsewhere in the Beaver Hills (predominantly during spring, summer and early fall) local community societies stage local events and festivals depicting the area's heritage, as do park operators who stage interpretive programs and maintain historic information on plaques, cairns and restored historic buildings.

In recent years, larger more regional cultural and agritourism events such as Tomato Fare and Beaver County Bounty have shown increased attendance and involvement. There is a story to tell in each community of the region and a cultural landscape that unfolds as one travels through the countryside - viewing old farm buildings, historic farm machinery, the many churches of the area and quaint historic eateries.

While all cultures are represented throughout the Beaver Hills, the Aboriginal history and presence today is least recognized as is the German culture which was as prominent as the Ukrainian culture depicted via the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.

As an important and key product sought by ecotourists, heritage and culture resources and opportunities that exist could be better packaged and exposed. This will require a more concerted effort on a regional scale as well as greater investment to develop and coordinate products and programs amongst regional societies and operators. There is opportunity to expand upon the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village model and operation by introducing a much broader exposé of Aboriginal and European history into the Beaver Hills.


Travel Alberta

3.2 SwOT AnAlySiSTOURISM STRENGTHS OF THE BEAVER HILLS

overall strengths � Protected Eco-system. Large portions of the Beaver Hills are

protected/managed under legislation; and representative eco-systems within these areas are conserved to protect them from loss, yet managed to allow appropriate types of recreation and tourism to occur at controlled levels.

� Proximity to Large Market. Proximity to a close-in market of over one million residents and tourism destination market with over 5.2 million visitors per year (Edmonton and Area Tourism Destination Region).

� Abundant Products and Offerings. Key tourism attributes/products of nature-based, agritourism and culture/heritage tourism are connected and abundant at varying stages of development and supply.

� Opportunities Exist. The region covers a large area that includes both nature-based, protected lands as well as countryside development. There is growth potential for sustainable development opportunities.

� Unique Products. The area is unique as a physiographic region, manages habitat for unique species (e.g. bison and elk) and migratory waterfowl that can be seen and interpreted.

� International Recognition. The Beaver Hills Initiative (BHI) and the potential of the region to become an internationally recognized biosphere reserve (under UNESCO) will contribute to international tourism and be of interest to the global scientific community.

� Good Access. The region is accessible with both well-maintained highway corridors and local road networks.

� Strong Partnerships. There exists a strong partnership of existing government at all levels and non-government organizations who have common goals when it comes to managing the area.

� Increased urbanization and migration of Albertans from the rural countryside gives authentic country attractions and heritage practices greater uniqueness as experiences for urban dwellers.

� Alberta's Land-Use Framework. This framework provides a template for regional stakeholders to cooperatively plan for and manage land including opportunities for sustainable tourism development.

Nature-based Tourism strengths � Abundance of non-motorized trails for recreation, nature interpretation and education

� Partnering governments have set environmental conservation as a priority in land-use planning

� Largest concentration of ungulates in North America

� Unique boreal uplands natural region in close proximity to metropolitan area

� Key natural areas are protected under legislation

� Numerous environmental, recreational and nature-based volunteer associations operate programs, assist in maintaining protected areas and act as stewards throughout the region


Travel Alberta

� Rich biodiversity including rare and sensitive plants and animals provides a variety of opportunities in which to recreate, view, study and explore within both natural and anthropogenic landscapes

� Park operators and volunteers already provide varying levels of nature-based opportunities for interpretation, education and general recreation.

� Opportunities exist to view unique wildlife in natural habitats.

� Key park areas (Elk Island National Park and Miquelon Lake Provincial Park) are managed under legislation and provide camping, family day use activities and tourism support.

� Some private campgrounds available within the transition zone (outside of protected areas) provide overnight accommodation.

� Major annual events that are staged in natural areas help to promote tourism (e.g. the Birkebeiner, Dark Sky Preserve events, Winter Lights Festival).

� The Dark Sky Preserve is a partnership between the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Alberta Tourism Parks and Recreation, Alberta Culture and Community Spirit, Parks Canada, Strathcona County, and the Alberta Fish and Game Association. It is a 300 sq km region within the Beaver Hills encompassing Elk Island National Park, the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, Strathcona Wilderness Centre, and Alberta Fish and Game Association lands dedicated to maintaining the dark sky.

Agritourism-based strengths � Numerous market gardens, greenhouses and u-picks are operating in countryside locations throughout the Beaver Hills

� Growing interest of market for locally produced foods

� Large population of horse owners/equestrian enthusiasts live in the area

� Specialty shops for pure locally grown/home grown products exist (e.g. honey, wine, local crafts)

� Local agricultural societies active in staging major annual festivals and events

� Local market garden/greenhouse operators diversifying from pure retail into programming and social events

Heritage/Culture Tourism strengths � Rich and varied human heritage resources are well

documented spanning First Nations/Aboriginal and early European settlement throughout the region

� Ukrainian history is evident and settlement well interpreted (Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village) with strong connections to Kalyna Country Tourism Market Region

� The relationship of Beaver Hills to settlement of central Alberta and the North Saskatchewan River rich in stories

� Current hamlets/community associations in rural countryside continue to celebrate history through annual events

� There is a growing interest of tourism markets for exposure, interpretation and experience of opportunities surrounding heritage


patricia.macklin

Highlight

Travel Alberta


� Transition area communities/local governments provide strong support to local heritage groups and museums and maintain heritage development strategies (e.g. Strathcona County)

� Park operators and associated volunteer groups are active in preserving original heritage buildings/ artifacts

� Lamont County connection – “Church Capital of North America”

� Bruderheim German heritage

� May through August there are numerous festivals and events throughout the region. Some examples are Tomato Fare (Sherwood Park), Beaver County Bounty (Beaver County), Friends of the Ukrainian Music Festival (Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village) and A Place for the Future (Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve).

TOURISM PRODUCT AND DEVELOPMENT WEAKNESSES

overall Weaknesses � Diminishing/fragile water resources and water bodies compromise water-based activities and threaten biodiversity of species

� Some areas are too sensitive/under stress and may not support recreation and/or tourism use

� Lack of overall understanding as it pertains to tourism in the Beaver Hills as a whole recognizing that coordination of tourism activity has yet to develop

� Regulations and bylaws in some jurisdictions limit or disallow some uses desired by the market (e.g. motorized recreation)

� There are fragmented sites/destinations within the Beaver Hills that operate independently of each other with no, or limited, physical connection

� Youth oriented facilities do not cater to multi-generational needs

� Marketing of area features occurs independently of the overall region – lack of a common tourism agency/bureau

� With respect to campgrounds and full service campground sites, demand exceeds supply

� Tourism infrastructure development outside of managed park areas while evolving, is in its infancy

� Edmonton's major attractions offer strong competition to the Beaver Hills region

� Nature-based Tourism Weaknesses � Water-based activities are diminishing

� Resources are lacking – staff funding and sustainability of funding

� Communication is lacking

� There are not enough areas designated for recreation/tourism

� There is limited awareness of area’s natural history and opportunities

� Private operators are not fully aware of nature-based opportunities/strengths

� Winter tourism/recreation opportunities are limited

� Multi-use trail systems are lacking


Agritourism-based Weaknesses � Road-trail connectivity is lacking

� Internet connectivity is lacking

� Insurance cost – liability costs associated with agri business ventures is a weakness

� Roadway/highway corridor limitations vis-à-vis zoning and access is a weakness

� Volunteer burn-out is occurring

� There are inconsistencies between municipal regulations

� Lack of awareness/coordination/support between operators, Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development offices relative to rural/countryside tourism and tourist support services has an impact

Heritage/Culture-based Tourism WeaknessesThere is a lack of: - Four-season product

Ŧ Experience/professional standards amongst operators

Ŧ Sharing of information and resources

Ŧ Quality accommodation in the region

Ŧ Infrastructure and sustainable funding

Ŧ Tourism being included in municipal long-range planning

Ŧ Advertising for the region as a whole

Ŧ Product/opportunity suited to all ages

Ŧ Aboriginal presence in operating/providing aboriginal heritage experiences/products

Ŧ Awareness of the area's cultural history and related opportunities (except for Ukrainian Cultural heritage Village)

overall Tourism development Threats � Expansion of development – country residential is a threat

� Industrial development – Industrial Heartland area breaks connection from Beaver Hills area to North Saskatchewan River and prevents public access or potential tourism development

� Sustainable funding to support development at all levels is not assured

� Climate change affecting natural resources – water levels are a concern

� Balancing tourism with commercial development can be difficult

� There is a loss of rural traditions – passing on historic values and traditional land-use practice

� Increased visitation – increasing market population is a threat

� Decreasing volunteer resources and volunteer stewards is concerning

� There are conflicting demands for tourism development (e.g. motorized recreation versus non-motorized)

� Fragmentation of habitat and habitat corridors caused by land-use/land development is occurring

� There is a lack of supporting amenities for tourism (gas stations, convenience and food services) � People with skills to demonstrate traditional crafts and other cultural practices is lacking

3.3 TOuriSm mArkeT STATiSTicS And highlighTS

The Beaver Hills as a tourism market unto itself has yet to unfold. It is part of the broader Edmonton and Area Tourism Destination Zone, one of six major destination zones in the Province. It is also encapsulated within Kalyna Country, a destination marketing organization, has members and operators who are part of the Edmonton Regional Tourism Group and falls under the Tourism and Economic Development Strategies of independent rural municipalities who are partners of the Beaver Hills Initiative. As such, the tourism market data pertinent and specific to the Beaver Hills as a whole is taken from different sources, often the government operators of parks and attractions themselves (i.e. Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, Elk Island National Park, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village).

Tourism visitor statistics from private tourism operators within the region and/or attendance at festivals, fairs and events in the region are not well traced other than anecdotal commentary from operators themselves.

Based upon data available, the following tourism market statistics are highlighted.

BEAVER HILLS RESIDENT MARKET 2009

� Approximately 1 million residents within one hour driving time

� Approximately 50,000 residents within the Beaver Hills (dispersed on farms, hamlets, acreages, and rural multi-lot subdivisions)

CURRENT MARKET PROFILE OF USERS/VISITORS TO PUBLIC LANDS WITHIN THE BEAVER HILLS

� Between 300,000 and 400,000 visitations per year to the Beaver Hills (Elk Island National Park, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area and the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village)

� 92% of visitation occurs between late May and late September

� Average age is 38

� Average party size is 2.4

� Predominantly day-use (overnight camping at Miquelon or Elk Island account for less than 5% of all visits)

� Elk Island National Park visitation1—the most visited park within the Beaver Hills—is:

Ŧ 50% Edmontonians

Ŧ 25% from the Beaver Hills transition area

Ŧ 25% from elsewhere (Alberta, Canada and overseas)

� Visitors of Elk Island National Park are motivated by:

Ŧ Experience in a natural setting

Ŧ Peace and quiet

Ŧ Time with friends and family

Ŧ Less than 1% of area non-resident visitors use fixed roof accommodation in the area

1 Statistics taken from: Patterns of Visitor Use Survey 2005/2006, prepared by Ipsos Reid, January 2008


VISITORS TO EDMONTON’S COUNTRYSIDE ARE:

� Mostly females

� Middle aged 45 - 54

� Return visitors (76%)

� Visiting in small parties of two to three people

ACTIVITIES DURING THE TRIP

Over 65.7% of the visitors to Edmonton’s countryside went sightseeing; a slightly smaller majority of visitors, or 64.8%, went shopping. About 58% went to a restaurant, 53% visited gardens and parks and approximately 22.2% visited a farm.

Sight

seein

g

Farm

Resta

uran

t/Bar

Mus

eum

/Gall

ery

Gard

ens/P

arks

Visiti

ng Fr

iends

and

Relat

ives

Othe

r

100%

90%

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0%

activities during the trip

Shop

ping

Busin

ess


from

Alb

erta

from

oth

er C

anad

ian

loca

tions

from

the

USA

from

ove

rsea

s

100%

90%

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0%

origins

visi

ting

frie

nds/

rela

tives

for p

leas

ure

for b

usin

ess

for o

ther

reas

ons

100%

90%

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

0%

trip purpose

Travel Alberta

TOURISTS WHO VISIT THE EDMONTON REGION

� 5.24 million visits (person visits in 2008)

� Of the 5.24 million visits to the Edmonton Region, approximately 32,000 per year have likely visited Elk Island National Park (25% of total visitation was from non-residents of the area)


3.4 mArkeT SegmenTS

In 2006, Alberta Economic Development and Travel Alberta identified four market segments in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, three of which are potential markets for the Beaver Hills. Urban adventurers make up the fourth segment.

Accomplishers are looking for new and unfamiliar places to visit and new things to do. They do not mind some action and excitement.

Comfort Seekers have a strong preference for familiar and rural locations. They seek relaxation, want to strengthen family bonds and get away from the daily routine.

Real Relaxers are looking for tranquility and some peace and quiet. They prefer to do nothing during their leisure trips.

All of these segments at some level are characterized within a set of tourism market types most relevant for the Beaver Hills.

NATURE-BASED TOURISM Nature-based tourism is any sustainable tourism activity or experience that is directly related to natural attractions or the natural environment, whether for relaxation, discovery or adventure. (South Australian Tourism Commission and South Australian Department for Environment and Heritage)

Nature-based tourism is a distinct form of travel that is focused on the experience of natural systems. Nature-based tourists seek connection and engagement with natural landscapes looking for authenticity, immersion, challenge and education as well as a sense of distance from settlement or real remoteness, engagement with locals, and the variety and contrast of the natural environment with their daily lives.

Further, nature-based tourists want to know that their activities are sustainable and that future generations will be able to enjoy what they came to see. (Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment)

The common types of nature-based tourism relevant to the Beaver Hills are ecotourism, adventure tourism and wildlife tourism (birding, wildlife viewing).

eCoToUrisMEcotourists appreciate authenticity, green design, conservation and protection. They seek outlets to learn and become engaged in hands-on experience associated with nature, culture and heritage.

Ecotourism in Alberta1 is nature-based tourism that exemplifies and embraces the following principles:

� Appropriately scaled and programmed to minimize negative environmental and social/cultural impacts

� Results in significant benefits to conserving the local environment and/or preserving the local culture/community

� Ecotourism maximizes economic benefits locally and local involvement

� Focus on authentic experiences

1 Assessment of Ecotourism Opportunities in Alberta; the Tourism Company, November 2010.


SuSTAinABle TOuriSm

nATure-BASed TOuriSm

ecOTOuriSm

The relATiOnShip BeTween

nATure-BASed TOuriSm And ecOTOuriSm

� Operated sustainably with attention to quadruple bottom line—ecological, cultural, social and economic

� Provides educational opportunities for guests and hosts; fosters intercultural respect and understanding

The difference between a nature-based tourism company and an ecotourism company is that the latter does not only provide an experience of low-impact adventure for tourists (e.g. a horseback ride on the trail) but includes an education opportunity where conservation knowledge is taken away by the participant.

The International Ecotourism Society 2000 published the following ecotourist market profile:

� Age - 35 to 54, although varied with activity and other factors such as cost

� Gender - 50% female and 50% male

� Education - 82% are college graduates and there is also a shift in interest in ecotourism from those with high levels of education to those with less education


Travel Alberta

� Party composition - 60% prefer to travel as a couple

Ŧ 15% with families and 13% alone

� Trip duration - Largest group preferred trips lasting 8 to 14 days

� Expenditure - Experienced ecotourists are willing to spend between $1,001 and $1,500 per trip

� Important elements for ecotourists are - Wilderness setting, wildlife viewing and Hiking/trekking

� Motivations - Enjoy scenery/nature/adventure, new experiences/places, cultural experiences

Ŧ In Canada, ecotourists surveyed were willing to pay more for packages that benefit the sustainability of the destination (up to 15% more).

� Generally, there is a high demand for quality in the overall experience including local guides, education, small groups, high-quality food, high-quality accommodations and conservation.

� Customers are seeking connections to traditional values that have been lost due to modern progress and homogeneity.

� Market for the attributes mentioned in an eco-lodge or eco-tour product is predicted to grow over the next 30 years.

AdveNTUre ToUrisMAdventure tourism is a type of Nature-Based Tourism that involves activities and particularly new activities that the tourist normally doesn't undertake on a daily basis. Such activities will most likely occur in nature-based locations where the tourist has never been.

Adventure tourists typically seek a cultural exchange, a physical activity or interaction and engagement with nature. They are accomplishers and often step outside of their comfort zone. Cross-country skiing in a wilderness setting, coming face-to-face with a bison, or tent camping in the deep of winter are examples of adventures that form part of the Beaver Hills tourism product.

WildliFe ToUrisM Wildlife tourism is a fast growing nature-based tourism where the central focus of the experience is to view and learn about wildlife in a natural setting.

Wildlife tourists are the most diverse of any niche market. They range from experienced specialists who seek “virgin” places that remain relatively undiscovered to an inexperienced tourist seeking a guided tour to see, as an example, moose or elk close up.

In general and for the Beaver Hills destination, wildlife tourists are those who wish to experience wild animals in their natural habitat. This can also pertain to bird watching and wildlife habitat exploration.


Travel Alberta


CULTURAL/HERITAGE-BASED TOURISM Cultural heritage tourism is travelling to experience the places and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present; which includes historic, cultural and natural attractions. Cultural heritage tourism is a personal encounter with traditions, history and culture, and is based upon the concept that each community has a story to tell. It is directed towards experiencing the local customs, traditions, arts, history, sites and culture that authentically represent a particular place (The National Trust for Historic Preservation).

Cultural heritage tourism is defined as an immersion in the natural history, human heritage, arts, philosophy and institutions of a region or country (United Nations World Tourism Organization). In this study, we have included Aboriginal tourism as a sub-set of cultural heritage tourism. Aboriginal tourism includes culturally reflective tourism products or activities offered by First Nations and Métis people. It can range from an individual start-up entrepreneur offering an authentic cultural experience, to a large community-based facility like an education/interpretive centre. Aboriginal tourism activities are diverse in spectrum; ranging from arts and crafts, to large events like pow-wows or rodeos (Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation).

Aboriginal tourism is tourism businesses that are owned or operated by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people (Aboriginal Tourism Team Canada).

AGRITOURISM Agritourism in the context of this study in the Beaver Hills involves activities that create direct involvement between the tourist and the agricultural community. In this sense, typifying the agritourist becomes difficult, since it could range from the city couple visiting a u-pick or berry farm, to a young child visiting a petting zoo with their parents.

Agritourism in Alberta began with farmers or ranchers diversifying their operations to create farm stays and/or guest ranches. This aspect of the industry is popular and continues to grow. In the Beaver Hills, the potential for expanded agritourism (including but well beyond farm stays) is tremendous as more and more urban dwellers visit the countryside to purchase locally grown foods or locally crafted retail products, attend rural events, and seek experiences to learn about traditional rural life. They are “comfort seekers”, “real relaxers” and “accomplishers”.

The market for agritourism experiences is expected to increase as a function of urban population growth coupled with an increase in ecotourists who value the rural countryside for its diverse mix of nature, cultural, heritage and agritourism experiences. While recent market members and statistics for agritourism in Alberta are limited, factors such as an increasing desire for authentic experiences, a move towards short break holidays, the perception of rural landscapes being healthier, and others have reinforced a trend in Albertans to spend more time in the countryside, thus, continued growth in the sector is expected.

Clearly the Beaver Hills region (protected natural areas and the countryside) provides a number of ideal settings for these broad segments.

All of the above noted tourist segments and types, in whole or in part, represent a number of potential and current visitors/users of the Beaver Hills. All can be expected to grow in number.


The BeAver hillS TOuriSm mArkeT TypeS

cOmfOrT SeekerS

mArkeT SegmenTS

AccOmpliSherS reAl relAXerS

BROAD TOURISM MARKET TRENDS

� More frequent getaway trips of shorter duration (e.g. two days) with opportunities for small luxury accommodation, spas and experimental activities that include education and interpretation in the out-of-doors (both natural and cultural) are sought.

� There is increasing use and ownership of RVs with opportunities for service campgrounds in scenic locations, activities and experiences (40% of Albertans camp and 79% of campers seek trail experiences (Recreational Vehicle Camping in Alberta, 2009).

� Interest in re-connecting with family and roots (heritage and culture) and in getting back to nature with opportunities for agriculturally-based experiences, genealogy, historic, cultural activities and site development is increasing.

� Interest in agritourism of all kinds, with related opportunities for working/guest ranches, vacation farms, country vacations, trail rides, behind the scenes activities, etc. is growing.

� Tourism has changed from escapism to enrichment, with interest in having meaningful experiences, learning about cultures (e.g. First Nations, Metis, Ukrainian, German) or new skills and participating in hands-on experiences.

� Interest in adventure travel and extreme sports in natural settings (e.g. mountain biking, triathlon, Birkebeiner) with related opportunities for a range of support services, accommodations, equipment rentals/sales, lessons and guides is being seen.

� There is an interest in golf vacations with related small luxury accommodation.

� Increased travel from boomers seeking longer-term stays, outdoor adventure with comfortable accommodation, experimental travel with deeper content in learning, opportunities for grandchildren is occurring.

� An increased demand for quality campsites that meet the need for today’s camping market is evident.

� Ecotourists will increase in number.

� Broader choices in accommodation will be sought from mega resorts to eco-lodges to cottage tents or yurts

ecOTOuriSTSAdvenTure

TOuriSTSABOriginAl

TOuriSTS

wildlife TOuriSTS

nATure-BASed TOuriSTSculTurAl heriTAge

TOuriSTSAgriTOuriSTS


3.5 mArkeT grOwThLOCAL MARKET GROWTH

� The Capital Region’s population is projected to increase by 614,000 between 2009 and 2044 (Capital Region Board).

� The population will continue to age over the next 16 years but life expectancy will increase:

Ŧ For males – from 77.2 (2006) to 79 in 2026

Ŧ For females – from 82.1 (2006) to 83.1 in 2026

There will be an increase in visible minorities as a percentage of the market. The Beaver Hills regional tourist market will increase in size over the next 16-year period. It will be comprised of more older adults and seniors, and it will contain many more new residents from other parts of the world.

There will be a continued migration of people from rural Alberta to urban centres, but also a continued increase of urban residents moving to the rural fringe. The Beaver Hills transition area (countryside) will experience continued growth in rural residential and hamlet areas, thus, heralding greater opportunity for agritourism accompanied by larger markets at the "door step" of protected parks and core natural areas.

There will be growth in the ecotourism market as our overall population becomes greener and more connected with resource conservation. This has already begun in school curriculum and has taken hold in other parts of the world.

4.0 GAPS AND OPPORTUNITIESThe Beaver Hills is and will continue to serve as a nature, heritage/culture and agritourism-based destination for a large and growing regional market of Edmonton and area residents and non-resident visitors.

The degree to which this occurs in the context of meeting the land-use and land management objectives of the Province and the BHI Partnership, yet still meeting the growing number and demands for tourism opportunities in the Province, is at the core of this assessment.

The following gap analysis outlines those products, opportunities and experiences that are sought by the current and future Beaver Hills visitor market but are undeveloped, under developed or require enhancement to meet demands.

Where gaps in infrastructure or offerings are identified, they are accompanied by a corresponding opportunity. Some of these opportunities require product enhancement and others require product development.


mArkeT demAnd gApS OppOrTuniTieS Or enhAncemenTS

Short duration trips with luxury accommodation

Fixed roof/luxury accommodation within or adjacent to nature areas (currently restricted to bed & breakfasts)

Range of fixed roof accommodations from quality to rustic within or with direct access to the protected core natural areas

Experiential activities including education, increased interpretive opportunities, experienced guides

Self guided infrastructure/signage boardwalks, interpretive kiosks and opportunities for casual personal interaction with interpreters and park staff

Increase promotion of Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve events and activities

Improve interpretive infrastructure on trails / staging areas and key nature-based, heritage based and agritourism-based features

Improve upon opportunities for staff / interpreters to interact with visitors

Soft adventure, as well as challenge with range of support services including accommodation, food services, equipment rentals, lessons and guides

No close-in quality accommodation, limited guiding and food services lacking

Incorporate equipment rentals, guide services, food and beverage service kiosks/concessions at trail staging areas, additional accommodation and restaurants

Quality campgrounds with access to trails

Numerous campsites in the region (699) but few with direct access to protected area trail systems, few with quality sought by market (other than Miquelon Lake Provincial Park)

Enhancement (upgrade) of private campgrounds in the area, develop quality campgrounds in or adjacent to core area trail systems

Enhance (upgrade of existing) campgrounds in Elk Island National Park (Miquelon has already undertaken upgrades)

Multi-use trails, handicapped accessible, motorized trails

Motorized/snowmobile trails restricted to Ministik, no long-ride systems, not all trails easily accessed by wheel chair

Potential to provide longer distance, long-ride trails for snowmobilers through jurisdictions which permit this activity to occur

Extended multi-use/seasonal use for snowmobiling trail development extending from Ministik through to the Iron Horse Trail and other regional trail systems

4.1 nATure-BASed gApS And OppOrTuniTieSThe following gaps and opportunities were identified by stakeholders through interviews and workshops.


Beaver Hills

mArkeT demAnd gApS OppOrTuniTieS Or enhAncemenTS

Science/education-based opportunities, particularly associated with the Biosphere Reserve – protected areas

Scientific/education community restricted to in-field science with little to no classroom/lab spaces and no quality in-field accommodations

Major Centre of Excellence for the Biosphere Reserve complete with program rooms, labs, accommodation, food services, convention/group event capacity

Winter season opportunities Cross-country skiing and snow shoeing limited to parks, winter trails limited to Ministik for snowmobiling

Expand / enhance opportunities for winter experiences such as: ice sailing; kite boarding, snow boarding, astronomy, hunting, pond skating, dog sledding. Establish Winter in the Beaver Hills event

Destination golf with short stay accommodation

Tourist accommodation near rural golf courses is lacking

Fixed roof accommodation at or near Elk Island Golf Course and other golf courses in the region


mArkeT demAnd gApS OppOrTuniTieS/enhAncemenTS

Interest in working/guest ranches, country vacations, trail rides

Lack of working/guest ranches, farm vacation venues – limited bed and breakfasts

Expand bed and breakfast operations and country stay vacation venues

Interest in local food products Supporting value-added services to promote local operators

Farm tours/country garden market tours

Interest in not only food and natural products but preparation and origin of product

Outlets to see products prepared from land-to-plate, locations exist but are dispersed throughout the region

Increased and collaborative marketing among local operations

Interest in new unique products introducing food and local goods made from the land/made from hand

Farm based programs which interpret heritage, cultures, traditional practice, no corn mazes

Planned strategies/zoning of market garden and/or agritourism products and events on a four-season basis

Incorporate / enhance rural Communities in Bloom program

Opportunities for children and youth to discover and learn

Petting zoos limited to events – seldom part of four-season market gardens

Farm produce tours, mushroom factory (Scotford Hutterite Colony), Aboriginal Food Fair, culinary tours and events

Hands-on experiences/community gardens

Community gardens are limited Centre for Sustainable Living

Expand the Communities in Bloom program

Horseback riding Numerous stables but limited direct access to riding trails

Equestrian/riding centre near established equestrian trails and/or multi-use trails that are designed and managed to reduce or eliminate conflict with horses

Interest in gardening and landscaping

Gardening programs/landscape design outlets limited

Encourage more garden based home based design programs. Expand upon major culinary events. For example: A Taste of the Beaver Hills, Tomato Fare, Beaver County Bounty and Josephburg Chicken Supper

Interesting landscapes No gaps Agricultural crop displaysCultural/heritage houses and buildings well maintained

4.2 AgriTOuriSm-BASed gApS And OppOrTuniTieS


mArkeT demAnd gApS OppOrTuniTieS/enhAncemenTS

Year-round opportunities, not just summer months. Festivals, fairs, events

Few events/opportunities from October through May

Major Beaver Hills annual event initiative highlighted and exposed in current events and offerings (e.g. re-enactments of early settlers of the Beaver Hills on stage). Historic/cultural tours throughout the region and greater marketing of Christmas bird count, etc

Short stay accommodation Limited fixed roof accommodation in rural countryside

Bed and breakfasts, small country-based and eco-lodge type inns providing a range of accommodation from basic to those with upscale amenities

Year-round accessibility Appropriate land-use zones and access along primary/secondary highways

Rural municipalities identify and develop hospitality and/or cultural zones in their land-use plans

New places to visit/new experiences

Central hubs/nodes to purchase goods, services

Major Beaver Hills Village with country/hills theme. Retail village with local convenience goods and services and unique offerings. (e.g. The Village at Pigeon Lake)

Strengthen family bonds and genealogy

Affordable seniors transportation from Edmonton to countryside locations

Tour packages either specially planned or integrated into public service

Seniors outreach

Information sources. Learning about cultures; Aboriginal, European settlement, unique heritage cultural products made locally

Key cultures not exposed, marketed not developed, (i.e. Aboriginal, German)

Bruderheim German products development and marketing, European Cultural/ Aboriginal Heritage Theme

Clustering of Cultural/Heritage Opportunities

Create historical information toolkit for tourism operators to reference

Develop relationships and explore opportunities with Aboriginal entrepreneurs

4.3 heriTAge/culTure-BASed gApS And OppOrTuniTieS

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta


5.0 KEY OPPORTUNITIES

5.1 generAl

The BHI has been formed as a legitimate partnership to study, draw attention to and promote conservation of the Beaver Hills as a unique ecosystem in which all stakeholders actively work together for a sustainable region. The authority vested in furthering the objectives of the BHI, when it comes to land-use and land management, will rest with the respective jurisdictions who make up the BHI Partnership and their relevant land-use zoning, by-laws and permitted uses, etc. Sustainable tourism is a major factor in sustaining and enhancing the social and economic fabric of the population and community. Efforts by the partnership to promote the Beaver Hills internationally, by nominating the region as a Biosphere Reserve, commenced in 2009.

At the present time and although the involved local and senior governments have set environmental, social and economic sustainability as pillars of land-use policy, and recognize the Beaver Hills Moraine as a sensitive bioregion, they have yet to harmonize their approach to land-use and land management in the Beaver Hills. Nor have they developed tourism strategies that provide a cooperative approach to advancing tourism in the region.

There is opportunity for the BHI acting on behalf of the partnership of governments, to develop a Tourism Task Force, Ad Hoc Tourism Committee or a comparable body in the Beaver Hills to develop more in-depth tourism strategies, branding and corresponding recommendations to align land-use planning, land management practices, policies, regulations and hospitality zoning within the Beaver Hills.

Such an initiative would set a template for, and initiate, private and public investment in heritage/culture, nature-based and agritourism venues and services that evolve as nodes as opposed to smaller disjointed service operations. It could include but not be limited to the following:

A) DISTRICT ZONING

Identify, designate and prepare land-use zoning classifications that go beyond traditional classifications. Examples are:

Ŧ Heritage District where clusters of key heritage attractions or key historic happenings/events are highlighted and capitalized on

Ŧ Countryside Hospitality Zones which are distinct areas where tourist and resident services, retail goods and accommodations are centralized or clustered

Ŧ Hospitality Service Zones instead of visitor services, similar to countryside hospitality zones but more specific and specialized to the visiting tourist

Travel Alberta


Ŧ Market Garden District which are distinct areas where soils permit farming/gardening activities including marketing of products

B) ACTIVITY ZONING / PERMITTED USES

Identify zones within buffer and transition areas of the Beaver Hills to accommodate specific uses/needs. For example:

Ŧ Linear corridors that are designated to allow seasonal , long-ride snowmobiling and horseback riding and that can be assembled on private lands through conservation easements, transfer of development credits, direct land purchase and/or lease of occupancy

Note: The Waskahegan Trail, which runs through the Beaver Hills, was developed over time by gaining permission for use from private land holders.

Ŧ Linear corridors that act as well designated and themed connectors to and between key opportunity zones in the Beaver Hills. For example:

Ŧ The Ross Creek corridor connecting the Beaver Hills and Fort Edmonton

Ŧ The Waskahegan Trail corridor

Ŧ The Beaver Hills Trail connecting Beaverhill Lake, located east of the region, with Sherwood Park/Edmonton/Lac Ste. Anne

Ŧ Astotin Trail/corridor

Ŧ Aboriginal, transportation or European settlement districts. For example:

Ŧ Good Hope – early pioneers

Ŧ Bruderheim/Lamont settlement area

Ŧ North Cooking Lake beach resort

Ŧ South Cooking Lake/Lakeview

Travel Alberta


C) GATEWAYS/SIGNAGE

Identify key gateways to the Beaver Hills along primary corridors. These gateways will serve to identify the region as a Biosphere Reserve and as a point of entry for destination travellers. Large scale maps and information at highway pull-offs are recommended. Specific locations are to be determined on, and as an example:

� The Yellowhead Highway #16

� Highway 14

� Highway 21

� Wye Road

D) ENCOURAGE AND CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR JOINT MARKETING AND JOINT DELIVERY OF EVENTS AND OFFERINGS BY VOLUNTEERS AND PARK OPERATORS.

There are many localized annual festivals, fairs and events that take place throughout the Beaver Hills. Most are organized by local community associations and agricultural societies, others by operators of parks and current attractions (e.g. Elk Island National Park, Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village). Often, the scheduling of these events overlaps (e.g. Tomato Fare and Beaver County Bounty) and thus competes for attendance.

In addition, there exists a number of volunteer groups and organizations (e.g. Friends of Elk Island, Friends of the Blackfoot) whose numbers are limited but who are vital to the operations and visitor experiences within the Beaver Hills. The old adage of strength in numbers suggests that the enhancement and advancement of tourism opportunities will be well served with mechanisms and cooperative project, event and operational strategies that lead to bigger events that showcase the region as a whole.

The sharing of information, agendas and meeting minutes and annual forums for volunteers of the Beaver Hills is highly recommended.

Travel Alberta


5.2 A cASe fOr nATure-BASed TOuriSm develOpmenT And inveSTmenTThe Beaver Hills is and will grow as an exciting and appealing region to invest in nature-based tourism development and related program services. Such investment is supported by the unique nature-based attributes already found within the parks and protected areas of the Beaver Hill Moraine and their location on the door step of the Alberta Capital Region, one of the fastest growing markets in Alberta and North America.

� The region is a great day-use getaway with numerous trails, lake-based destinations and established programs to recreate, educate and interpret the region’s nature, history and culture.

� The region is accessible via air through a major international airport and three regional airports. It is well supported through the hospitality services of nearby urban centres and local road infrastructure is excellent.

� Rural communities that are proud to accept visitation at cultural events and who strive to put culture and heritage at the forefront are found in the region.

� There are strong organizations of volunteers and rural municipalities who maintain conservation of the natural environment as a priority in land planning.

� A transition area of rural landscapes that have considerable appeal and opportunity to expand into a comprehensive array of agritourism-based experiences for urban markets is in place.

� Large natural areas, that are protected as habitat, exist for bison, elk, moose and many ungulates which are not found in the same concentration anywhere else in North America.

� Subject to future designation, the unique natural landscape could gain international recognition as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and as such, be a prime destination for the ecotourism market.

5.3 neXT STepS

STRATEGIC POSITIONING

This tourism development opportunity assessment identifies the potential of the Beaver Hills in the context of a fully operational and managed Biosphere Reserve. From a Provincial perspective it conforms to province-wide tourism development goals of enhancing and adding to nature-based ecotourism destinations. From a regional perspective, it positions the Beaver Hills as a unique and environmentally sensitive bioregion that requires responsible management in the context of environmental, social and economic sustainability. This latter intent will occur with or without international biosphere reserve designation.

Fortunately, this work as well as previous scientific studies, inventories, analysis and ongoing assistance in the coordination of land planning is being coordinated by the BHI – a multi-jurisdictional group representing all stakeholders of the Beaver Hills.

It is the Beaver Hills Initiative that is best positioned to help coordinate and ultimately assist in animating the tourism development visions highlighted herein along with statutory land authorities, partner organizations, private investors and the public. When it comes to tourism in the Beaver Hills, it is a first step on a continuum of strategic tasks that will lead to meeting the common objectives of all involved and it will take a number of years to fulfill.


Travel Alberta

ESTABLISH A REGIONAL TOURISM WORKING GROUP

The regional tourism coordinating function will require a focused group that is representative of the existing and potential tourism stakeholders of the region. They should be mandated (likely by the BHI) to prepare a tourism development strategy that conforms to the vision of the BHI partnership and fulfills the visions for the future.

At the moment, this assessment focuses on facility support for fulfilling tourism development opportunities. An important objective of a regional tourism working group will be to address the sustainable tourism criteria, including the environmental and economic components and the “people” component or the social aspects necessary for successful projects. To make this happen, this group needs to establish a clear vision as to how the people’s activities and the tourism infrastructure will link together. More discussion needs to be had around the development of partnerships – the relationships of the current partners together with the business community, municipal economic development and tourism representatives, chambers of commerce, community associations, and others – in order for the plans to be implemented. It is the “people” piece that will drive the need and the means for the facilities.

In order to be successful in the long term, the regional working group needs to better define:• visitorexperienceoffersthatsettheBeaverHillsapartfromotherplaces• thenatureoftourismpartnershipstosupporttheseoffers• howthefacilities/infrastructurewillsupportpartnerorganizationsintermsofcreatingamazingvisitor experiences• howthistourismpartnershipcanbeusedtobuildstrategicrelationshipswithotherregionaltourism efforts

This group will also become instrumental in making recommendations to partner authorities relative to tourism design standards, operational protocol/regulations and overall environmental standards, and as well in coordinating the implementation of the strategy once it is developed and approved.

An example scenario would be a potential set of enriched experiences for the Beaver Hills through citizen involvement in conservation projects in protected areas, heritage facilities, and with community-based environmental and cultural organizations. A partnership of these organizations could advertise opportunities together, train and mentor, and share and encourage participants to work on multiple projects. The partnership could also celebrate citizen volunteerism as a collective. By working together, the group could create an important synergy that makes the larger offer much more attractive than if groups attempted to do this separately. It would become a Beaver Hills product, and the facilities needed to support this product would crystallize with tourism experiences more clearly defined.


TIMELINES FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

FORM

REGIONAL

TOURISM

WORKING

GROUP

TOURISM

DEVELOPMENT

OPPORTUNITY

ASSESSMENT

PREPARE

TOURISM

DEVELOPMENT

STRATEGY

DETAILED

PLANNING AND

MARKETING

OF PRIVATE/

PUBLIC SECTOR

OPPORTUNITIES

PHASED

DEVELOPMENT

BEGINS

STRATEGY

RECOMMENDATIONS

IMPLEMENTED

POTENTIAL

COORDINATING

FUNCTIONS

� Harmonize volunteer activities

� Coordinate timing for events and coordinate hours of operations for tourism operators

� Identify funding opportunities

� Survey current operators

� Coordinate relevant land planning standards, architectural controls, land-use zoning practices amongst statutory authorities

� Create business development and marketing support mechanisms for private and not-for-profit operators

5.4 key TOuriSm develOpmenT OppOrTuniTieS

THE OPPORTUNITIES – POTENTIAL FOR INVESTMENT

The following are presented as potential opportunities to advance the most noted tourism development requirements of the Beaver Hills. They are basic models based on best available evidence and should be considered as strategy planning commences and as markets and viability permit. (Edmonton Regional Tourism Group Economic Impact Study 2008)

i The beaver Hills Centre for discovery

ii village in the beaver Hills

iii Centre for sustainable living

iv Nature-based Accommodations

v Heritage village


Target Markets

Potential markets include:

� International science community interested in biosphere reserves

� International travellers seeking unique nature-based and cultural/Aboriginal experiences

� The Alberta market of adult, small group travellers interested in nature-based, cultural experience and relaxation

� Tour groups

� Local/regional universities, colleges and schools

� Conferencing markets

� Banquet markets

� Destination golf markets

ideal locationsWhile investigation of sites and feasibility has yet to occur, the ideal location would be to locate it:

� In the Beaver Hills transition zone with nearby access to Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway)

� Viewscapes with high scenic value of the natural area and potential to view wildlife in a natural setting

� Directly accessible to trail networks within Elk Island National Park, combining lake views

� Most certainly adjacent to predominant bison habitat and opportunities for dark sky viewing

The Concept

� Eight deluxe appointed guest rooms/suites with balconies and fireplaces (for high-end markets, international visitors seeking comfort yet nature-based adventure)

� 20 medium scale guest rooms or chalets

� Restaurant/adjacent lounge/local foods

� Banquet/assembly room with rustic appeal, fireplace and local art and artifacts

� Classrooms/labs/boardroom for students, scientists, public education programs

I THE BEAVER HILLS CENTRE FOR DISCOVERY

There is an opportunity for a joint venture (public/private) eco-lodge located in the Beaver Hills.

The Beaver Hills Centre for Discovery would operate as a multi-faceted facility. The eco-lodge would be architecturally rustic with natural materials such as stone and wood. The focus would be on ecosystem sustainability with educational and interpretive programs tailored to the scientific community, students, outdoor groups, families and the travelling tourist.

This Centre would provide unique short-stay opportunities of mid- to high-calibre accommodation, cuisine and program offerings, and capitalize on the opportunities of viewing the unique flora and fauna of the Beaver Hills.

In this setting the facility would also provide excellent opportunity for scientific research, conferencing and hospitality rentals/banquets.


� Outdoor amphitheatre (program presentation, festivals and events)

� Spa/indoor pool (or outdoor heated pool)

� Interpretive display space(s)

� Potential for local Elk Island National Park and BHI offices/headquarters

Associated development

� Guided tours/trails and sites

� Dog sledding experience

� Cross-country ski clinics

� Special interest programs and guest lecturers

� Aboriginal cultural presentations and programs

� Dark Sky Preserve programs

ESTIMATED CAPITAL REqUIREMENTS: $5 MILLION – $8 MILLION CDN

operating Projection summary

Occupancy Average Room Rate Revenue

Deluxe rooms (8)

@ 60% over full year

@ 350 days availability

$250 $420,000

Chalets (20) $180 $756,000

Services Banquet & Food Services @350 days x 50 people x $80 per day $1.4 M

ToTAl reveNUe $2.576 M

oPerATiNG CosTs $1.8 M

NeT ANNUAl $475,500

Note: Based on best available evidence , all values are approximate

Travel Alberta


II VILLAGE IN THE BEAVER HILLS

To boost the heritage, cultural and agritourism resources within the Beaver Hills, there is opportunity to provide themed commercial destinations to cater to residents of, and visitors to, the Beaver Hills countryside. It is also an opportunity to cluster hospitality and retail services thereby taking advantage of cross-over markets and creating efficiencies in operations (e.g. common parking) and overall land-use.

This type of development would not only operate as a retail and service hub for rural residents, but would make available local products and services to tourists aligned with agriculturally-based, heritage/culture-based and nature-based interest. An example of this village concept is the Village at Pigeon Lake, which has become a popular tourist destination for Central Alberta residents seeking unique cuisine, country style clothing and furniture, heritage music performances, real estate services, fishing and hunting supplies and confectionary goods (e.g. ice cream and chocolate). A conference-style bed and breakfast (the Inn) also caters to travellers, business conferences, reunions, travel groups and individuals.

This concept development would have the following characteristics:

� Situated close to, or on, a major corridor – wayfinding signage could also direct traffic to another location

� Situated in, or close to, an established hamlet but easily accessible by the metro Edmonton market

� Themed in countryside/heritage architecture

� Large, well landscaped park area, amphitheatre and market area

� Operated independently or as a cooperative involving a number of independent operators and a hospitality/program committee or condo board

Target Markets

� Local and regional residents seeking unique home-grown services and conveniences

� Visiting friends and relatives market from throughout metro Edmonton

� Tour operators

� Middle-aged boomers who are part of the Comfort Seekers and Accomplishers travel segment

� Outdoor recreation market (e.g. birdwatching, cycling, cross-country skiing)

location

� At a location (or locations) within the Beaver Hills countryside (Transition Area)

� Ideally situated near or in a hamlet buffered from rural residential development with tree stands and open meadows

Concept

� A countryside tourism/hospitality commercial development with a mix of operators catering to agritourism, heritage/cultures, aboriginal and nature-based consumers

Travel Alberta


ESTIMATED CAPITAL INVESTMENT $8 MILLION - $15 MILLION CDN

operating Projections summary

Revenue Operator lease hold space revenue

$800,000 to $1.5 M/ yr

Special event revenue $50,000 / yr

Condominium management fee revenue

$200,000 / yr

ToTAl reveNUe $1.05M -1.75M / yr

Operations Maintenance, management, promotions

$150,000 / yr

Capital recovery @ 10% per year

$800,000 to 1.5 M/ yr

ToTAl oPerATioNs $950 K - 1.65 M/ yr

NeT oPerATioNs $100,000 / yr*

*After capital amortization likely 10-year return on investment

Note: Based on best available evidence, all values are approximate

Associated Tourism development

� Outdoor event/presentation area

� Adjacent with campground, resort, agritourism equestrian stable, etc.

� Part of Beaver Hills Initiative tours

� Special interest programs/events by rural associations


III CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVING

The concept development involves a rural site or green farm that operates as an agri-reserve for the education and enjoyment of future generations, for both rural and urban residents to learn about sustainable rural living and for urban residents to experience countryside living and traditional rural culture and practices.

The centre would consist of a variety of habitats that provide quality opportunities for hands-on learning and appreciation. It could also serve as a site for regional agricultural festivals and other cultural events that celebrate the Beaver Hills, its culture and its heritage. Elements may include the following:

� A conserved area reflecting traditional environment of the Beaver Hills region and its historic significance by preserving farm land and woodlands

� Areas to encourage appreciation of nature and natural processes, particularly for school-aged children

� Areas—indoors and outdoors—to encourage appreciation of the region’s music and culture (display areas, amphitheatres)

� Areas to demonstrate and teach, through hands-on experience, traditional farming, gardening, animal husbandry, horseback riding, sheep shearing and sustainable practice

� Areas to learn about the culinary arts and advantages of home-grown produce

Buildings may include a riding club barn, stables, an arts centre, an old church, environmental and agricultural centre, hall, outdoor program areas, administration, public market area, interpretive displays, herb garden and/or a water-based/creek laboratory.

The location

� Ideally located in the Beaver Hills countryside on a minimum quarter section of land and surrounded by a pastoral setting in the Beaver Hills transition zone

� It includes a large water body

� Access to trail systems including universal accessibility to trail types and for all levels of ability

� Accessed by vehicle off a major highway or rural collector road

The Markets served

� Child, youth, education market within the region

� Seniors groups

� Disabled groups

� Daytrip market for families with small children

� Tour operators

� Equestrians (horse owners)

� Arts and culture enthusiasts

� Comfort Seekers, Accomplishers, travel segments and types, ecotourists, culture/ heritage tourists and agritourists

� Edmonton and area gardeners

Travel Alberta


BUSINESS PLAN SUMMARY

Capital Cost likely to range between $5M and $10M including land and building costs

Capital Funding most likely acquired through grants (e.g. agricultural grants) and public funding resources

Operations can be expected to approach break-even (without amortization of capital) through the sale of program/event fees, fundraising, sale of goods and donations


The Concept

The concept envisioned is one of an agritourism/agricultural/nature learning centre for day use only. It will likely operate through a volunteer not-for-profit group or association (or a cooperative of agricultural societies) and will serve as a hands-on learning resource for regional residents and the travelling public seeking exposure to local culture and experience of historical as well as contemporary farm-based, agri-environmentally sustainable practices.

Associated Tourism development

The resource could complement or be complemented by an adjacent market garden, an equestrian centre, a working farm operating as a farm stay destination, riding trails or nature trails.

Travel Alberta


IV NATURE-BASED ACCOMMODATIONS

The Beaver Hills currently provides opportunities for overnight accommodation at campsites located at Elk Island National Park, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park and a variety of other private campsite operators such as, the Kawtikh RV Retreat, Elk Island Retreat and the Star Gazer Campground and RV Park. The Hastings Lake Bible Camp also provides campsites. The region also has a number of bed and breakfast operations; please refer to the lists in Appendix 2.

Fixed roof accommodation just outside of the Beaver Hills, but within close proximity, includes hotels/motels located in Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Camrose, Tofield, Bruderheim and Lamont. Additional nearby campgrounds include the Tofield Campground, Black Nugget Lake Campground (Lamont County), Lamont RV Park, Turner Park (Fort Saskatchewan) and the Joseph Lake Campground (Leduc County).

With an abundance of fixed roof accommodation and approximately 700 camping sites located within 20 minutes driving time of the Beaver Hills, overnight stay opportunities for tourists are readily available. However, stakeholders have expressed concern about the lack of overnight camping opportunities within or near proximity to the key natural landscapes and trail systems found within Elk Island National Park and the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. In addition, a recent study (Recreation Vehicle Camping in Alberta, Praxis Group, 2009) revealed that the demands of RV campers in Alberta is for improved access to, and more upscale quality campsites with access to trails and preferences for water-based recreation and landscapes. At present, a limited number of campgrounds have been upgraded to meet present day market standards. These include the Miquelon Lake Provincial Park campground and the Bluebird RV Park, which have been upgraded to feature electricity, water/sewer and larger RV lot sizes.

Recognizing that the objectives of the BHI are to sustain the natural integrity of the Beaver Hills and also recognizing that the existing water based resources of the region lend themselves to more passive nature-based activity. Any new or upgraded campsites should be designed and managed to promote experiences that are nature-based and have low impact to their surroundings. Opportunities for upscale RV destination resorts exist but are recommended to occur in locations outside of the protected areas. Campground operators who have not invested in upgrades and/or enhanced facilities are encouraged to do so.

There are opportunities to meet the growing market of nature-based overnight accommodation demands of those who wish to stay within, or adjacent to, protected areas and close to trail systems. Noted opportunities for upgrade, expansion or new accommodation should in all cases be planned and developed to respond to nature-based ecotourism and as such reflect designs with low environmental impact, are complementary to natural surroundings and are programmed with services and opportunities for nature and authentic heritage interpretation and education.

Travel Alberta


Accommodation opportunity A: To Upgrade existing Camping and overnight Facilities at elk island National Park

Target Markets:

� All segments seeking nature-based destinations for short stay (1 to 4 nights) camping. These markets can range from individual adventure seekers to families with children. Target markets also include travelling groups that seek group sites and opportunities for socialization (eg. group picnic, group firepits)

Ideal Locations:

� Current campground sites within Elk Island National Park serve as ideal locations for upgrade with potential for expanding these areas to either add sites for RVs and for developing suitable areas to provide yurts* or teepees

Concept – upgrade existing campsites to accommodate:

� Larger RVs and ample space between sites

� Improved access to lake shores to hand launch e.g. (small craft and for interpretive programming)

� Incorporate rustic design, fixed roof cabins, yurts or teepees

� Incorporate common services buildings (e.g. washrooms, showers)

(* Yurt: originally a circular, domed, portable tent used by nomadic peoples of central Asia (http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yurt)

Associated Development:

� Day-use areas for interpretive programming (programmed by staff or volunteers or self guided)

� Common public showers, washrooms, firewood

� Group gathering areas (eg. outdoor amphitheatres, firepits)

� Trail heads/ staging areas

� Access to water areas, program areas, golf course, food & beverage services

Capital/ Operational Impacts:

� The capital upgrade requirements would be publicly funded through the ongoing annual capital budget of Elk Island National Park

� Revenue associated with upgraded and/or new development would offset annual operating costs through appropriate fees for services (site fees, yurt/ teepee fees)

Travel Alberta


Accommodation opportunity b: Alberta Tourism Parks and recreation to Consider rustic, Nature-based overnight Yurts/Teepees or Wilderness Cabins for rent at the Waskahegan staging Area or islet staging Area within Cooking lake-blackfoot Provincial recreation Area.

Target Markets:

� Nature-based trail users including hikers, backpackers, school groups, individuals, and families. Intent is to provide base level/ semi-wilderness accommodation to enhance the experience of users for short stays (eg. one night)

Ideal Locations:

� Two staging areas, the Waskahegan and Islet Lake, both located in the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, are ideal locations to provide rustic, short-stay overnight camping as they already exist as popular destinations. They have the land base and infrastructure to accommodate such areas and they are maintained/ managed on a regular basis

Concept

• Provide opportunity for trail users to stay overnight in a rustic, semi-wilderness setting

� These units could be rented for short-term stays and managed by park staff or volunteers.

Associated Development:

� Needed site infrastructure already exists but there may be a need to provide firewood for use in designated locations as well as group program/ firepit to accommodate interpretive sessions and socialization for groups.

Capital/ Operational Impacts:

� Capital costs for either small basic fixed roof structures or yurts, to be funded by the Province with revenue derived from overnight rental fees to offset operations.

Beaver Hills


Accommodation opportunity C:

Private landowner Mini rv Campsites

Target Markets:

� Nature-based trail users including hikers, backpackers, school groups, individuals, and families seeking short stay locations for basic RV camping with close by areas to Beaver Hills trail systems

Ideal Locations:

� Private lands in the transition zone adjacent to, or within near proximity to protected park lands and/or buffer area trail staging and access points

� Sufficient sized land holding to develop the infrastructure (access roads, sites and servicing)

Concept: � For current landowners or potential investors with land located near key tourist, nature-based areas of the Beaver Hills to establish a range of camping sites on their property as a form of income and as an opportunity to provide nature-based tourists a less expensive alternative (than major RV resorts) to spend a night or a weekend near park trail systems or key nature-based sites. This approach would require local municipalities to ensure that campsite and RV site development is a permitted land-use and also that standards of design for servicing and amenities consistent with the Land Management Framework of the Beaver Hills initiative.

Associated Developments:

� Basic amenities that may include camper service buildings to provide washroom (potential for shower stalls), wood supply and group gathering areas like firepits, horseshoes, multi-use grass areas for outdoor court sports.

Capital and Operational Costs:

� This would have to be determined through feasibility viability assessment. Capital costs may range between $5,000 and $15,000 per camper site and the viability of operations would likely require enough

Travel Alberta


Travel Alberta

combined sites to gain a 5- to 10-year return on investment (capital) and full annual recovery (plus profit) on site management and custodial costs.

Note: This does not preclude opportunities for major investment in destination RV resorts; however, such development is encouraged to occur in locations that do not compromise the natural setting of the moraine, and/or its sensitive ecosystem.

Market segmentsThe key market types requiring increased accommodation are nature-based tourists including ecotourists, adventure tourists, and wildlife tourists. They range from travel market segments of accomplishers (who will seek action and excitement and have a willingness to tent camp or stay in basic level accommodation) to comfort seekers and real relaxers (who will seek sites to accommodate modern RVs).

locations for Accommodations

� Close by major travel corridors and accessible on paved or hard surface roadways

� Natural setting ideally on a water body

� Either within or on the fringe of the protected areas and buffer zones of the Beaver Hills particularly with direct access to trails or staging areas of the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area and Elk Island National Park

� Other tourism features within a 15 or 30 minute driving time

� Reasonable access to major Edmonton and area attractions (e.g. West Edmonton Mall) for the general touring market

Market served

� Appeals to all market segments (Accomplishers, Comfort Seekers, Real Relaxers, Ecotourists)

� Families and groups from throughout Alberta and Western Canada

� Middle-aged and retired RV travellers from the US and Eastern Canada

� Soft adventure, culture, history and agritourism seekers

� Visiting friends and relatives market

� Festivals, fairs and event travellers


V HERITAGE VILLAGE

The Beaver Hills represents a unique boreal uplands ecosystem that tells a story of the Aboriginals who lived off the land prior to European settlement and played an integral role in the overall settlement of Central Alberta. It also represents the Europeans who settled in the area and represented a number of cultures, including the Ukrainians and Germans.

Historical artifacts, stories, photographs and print literature about the Beaver Hills First Nations, Métis and early pioneers are present in some locations throughout the area, however, the animation and interpretation of heritage in the Beaver Hills is somewhat limited and in some cases lacks authenticity.

Exposure of human heritage, particularly aboriginal culture, is considered a key tourism attractor for many local and international travel markets. It is also an integral component to understanding the heritage aspects of cultures that are part of today's social fabric. The opportunity that exists is one of highlighting human heritage of the Beaver Hills in the form of a themed attraction, not unlike the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.

The location

The ideal location within the Beaver Hills is to develop on lands that are:

� Adjacent to the core nature-based resources and along the major travel corridors

� Primary consideration should be given to establish on lands adjacent to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village thereby expanding upon an already excellent cultural attraction and creating a cross-over market opportunity for heritage and culture enthusiasts

The Market served

� Edmonton area, provincial and overseas touring markets made up of individuals and travel groups (tours) interested in heritage and culture, meaningful experiences and hands-on experiences

� Mostly adult couples but also touring families or families from the broader region seeking day-use attractions

� Nature-based enthusiasts interested in specialized touring/guided touring in natural settings

� Tour groups

� Educational institutions

� Historians

The Concept

The Heritage Village will be developed as a short-stay attraction with spaces and places designed in appropriate cultural/heritage themes and programmed to interpret and experience the First Nations and European settlers culture of the area including food tasting experiences, retailing of cultural products, interpretive programs, celebrations, events and storytelling. The site will contain:

� Aboriginal Village and ways of life displays

� German Village and ways of life displays

� Storytelling amphitheatre

� Restaurant

� Retail sales shops



� Program interpretive spaces

� Direct access/liaison with the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Associated development


� Highway attraction signage could be near highway service facilities, private campground

ESTIMATED CAPITAL REqUIREMENTS $5 MILLION TO $15 MILLION CDN

operating Projections summary

Annual Visitation Admission Revenue

100,000 – 150,000 persons $3.50 per person (average) $350,000 – $500,000

Restaurant Revenue (estimate) $525,000

Retail Sales Revenue (estimate) $50,000

ToTAl reveNUe $925,000 To $1.1 MillioN

NeT FroM oPerATioNs $185,000 To $220,000 Per YeAr*

*not including capital amortization


Travel Alberta


APPENDIX 1

TOURISM RELATED EVENTS AND OFFERINGS

evenT nAme evenT Type OrgAnizATiOn

Ardrossan Country Christmas Craft Sale Craft sale Ardrossan Recreation & Agricultural Society

Ardrossan Parade & Picnic Community festival Ardrossan Recreation & Agricultural Society

Bethany Church Nativity Display Seasonal attraction Bethany Lutheran Church

Bruderheim Heartland Ag Days Ag fair Bruderheim Agricultural Society

Bruderheim Craft Sale Craft sale Town of Bruderheim

Bruderheim Skating Party Family recreation Town of Bruderheim

Snow Goose Chase Tours Birdwatching tour Edmonton Nature Club

Josephburg Christmas Craft Sale Craft sale Josephburg Agricultural Society

Josephburg Christmas Train Festival event Josephburg Agricultural Society

Heartland Fiddle Jamboree Music festival Josephburg Agricultural Society

Josephburg Chicken Supper Community dinner festival Josephburg Agricultural Society

Josephburg Presents Dinner / concert series Josephburg Agricultural Society

Josephburg Gymkhana Gymkhana equestrian events Josephburg Agricultural Society

Alberta Challenge Triathlon Triathlon Multisports Canada Inc

Mission 3 Triathlon Triathlon Multisports Canada Inc

Sodbuster Rodeo Rodeo festival Town of Tofield

County of Lamont Church Tours Bus tour County of Lamont

Lamont Bullarama Supreme Rodeo festival Town of Lamont & Lamont Agricultural Society

Lamont Summer Sizzler Rodeo Rodeo festival Town of Lamont & Lamont Agricultural Society

Chipman Ag Society Old Time Fair Agri festival Village of Chipman & Chipman Ag Society

Chipman Car Crunch/Coyote Run Rally Spectator event – auto Village of Chipman & Chipman Ag Society

Chipman Car Annual Show n' Shine Car show Chipman Car Crafters

Canadian Birkebeiner Ski Festival International XC ski race Canadian Birkebeiner Society

Feast of Jordan Ukrainian Christmas celebrations Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Celebration of Dance Ukrainian dance extravaganza Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Canada Day/Ivana Kupala Festival Festival event Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Historic Garden Tours Tours of gardening Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Ukrainian Day Festival event Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Harvest of the Past & Taste of Heritage Foods Festival event Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Friends of the Ukrainian Music Fest Music festival Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Beaver County Bounty Self-guided driving tour Beaver County


evenT AcTiviTieS

Craft sale, skating, sleigh rides

Parade, community picnic, art display, games

Display nativities, live Christmas music, food, sleigh rides

Chuck & chariot races, parade, concessions, etc

Christmas craft sale

Mini Olympics, wagon ride, outdoor skating, curling demonstrations

Day bus trip with birdwatching and lunch

Crafts, home based businesses, concessions

Festival activities, Food Bank donations collected

Fiddle contest and jam sessions, concessions, dinner

Chicken supper, displays, country market, Fort Saskatchewan community band

Five dinner and concert evenings throughout the winter

Gymkhana participation and events

Triathlon – swim, cycle and running race

Triathlon – swim, cycle and running race

Rodeo events, concessions, dance, midway

Bus tour of local churches

Bull riding events, concessions, dance

Parade, rodeo events, dance, midway

Midway, games, concessions

Car crunch, concessions, motorcycle poker run

Concession, entertainment, glider displays, car displays

Cross-country ski races of various distances, concessions, international visitors

Divine Liturgy services, historical interpretation, water blessing and blessing of homs

Dance performances, exhibits, musical entertainment

Historical exhibits, traditional Ukrainian cuisine, music

Education about historic gardening

Church services, good fair, historical activities, marketplace

Alberta produced foods, music, historic demonstrations

Ukrainian fold musicians, exhibits, village market, children's activities

Farm tours, locally produced goods sampling

Beaver Hills

Travel Alberta

Beaver Hills

Travel Alberta


evenT nAme evenT Type OrgAnizATiOn

TOURISM RELATED EVENTS AND OFFERINGS


Heartland Christmas Light-up Christmas activities Strathcona County

Municipal Canada Day Celebrations Festival event All municipalities

Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve Astronomy event Royal Astronomical Society of Canada

Country Cuisine/Tomato Fare Festival/Gardening/Local Foods Strathcona County

Fur and Feathers Tour Bird / wildlife tour Beaver Hills

Great Canadian Pastry Caper Recreation event Strathcona Wilderness Centre

New Year's Eve Celebration and party Strathcona Wilderness Centre

Elk Island NP Canada Day Celebration event Parks Canada, EINP

Elk Island NP - Parks Day Celebration event Parks Canada, EINP

Elk Island NP - Winter Lights Annual winter event Parks Canada, EINP

Elk Island NP - Heritage Day Annual celebration Parks Canada, EINP

Parks Day Parks enjoyment activities Alberta Parks

Guided Waskahegan Trail Walks Guided walking tours Waskahegan Trail Association

Ministik Guided Snowmobile Rides Snowmobile touring Tri County Snowmobile Club

Blackfoot Ultra - Trail Race Running race Alberta Ultra Series

5 Peaks Running Race - Blackfoot Running race

Birch Bay Ranch Open House Open house Birch Bay Ranch

Backyard Stampede Rodeo New Sarepta

Leduc West Antique Exposition Antique show Rodeo West Antique Society

Leduc West Country Harvest Festival event Leduc County

Beaver Hills

evenT AcTiviTieS

Beaver Hills


Christmas activities at numerous locations

Music entertainment, various activities, fireworks

Presentations by astronomers, dark sky viewing and family events

Local foods, tomato varieties, family entertainment

Wildlife viewing and identification, information habitat

Cross-country skiing, food tasting

Family activities, food, entertainment

Guided hikes, family activities and Canada Day celebrations

Guided hikes and family activities

Shuttle services to the Park, hot chocolate, family events, astronomy presentations

Guided hikes, heritage games, interpretation program

Outdoor activities

Hiking, picnic

Snowmobile touring

Trail race

Trail race

Picnic, tours

Rodeo events

Antique displays, family entertainment

Antique farming demonstrations, tractor pull, vendors, concession

AGRITOURISM-BASED ASSETS

(SEE MAP IN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY FOR ALL ASSETS)

CATEGORY EXAMPLES

Accommodations

� Takes advantage of the agricultural setting � Lindbrook Star Gazer Campground

� Prairie Sunset Bed & Breakfast

equine/stables

� Locations that provide equine opportunities � Keno Hills Stables

� Legacy Ridge Equine Centre

� Sandridge Stables

Farms

� Tours of farm operations occur in these kinds of opportunities

� Farm produced products are available for purchase directly here. In some instances the ability to harvest the produce may be available

� In some instances the direct interaction with consumers has been an added line of business to augment the farm’s original purpose

� A-5 Berry Farm

� Alberta Country Orchards

� Bardo Country Berry Farm (Tofield)

� Cindy’s Berry Patch

� Colchester Stables

� Dirt Willy Game Bird Farm & Hatchery

� Fruit Fields Forever

� Still Meadows Ranch

� Verry Berry Honey


� Locally produced products are available for direct purchase.

� Generally these types of operations are structured and set up to enable direct interactions with consumers

� Country Road Greenhouses

� Glen View Greenhouse

� Greenland Garden Centre

� Hastings Lake Gardens

� Lions Garden

� Salisbury Greenhouses

� Theil’s Greenhouse (Bruderheim)

� Wallish Greenhouse

APPENDIX 2:

RECREATION AND TOURISM FEATURES INVENTORY


Beaver Hills

Travel Alberta

AGRITOURISM-BASED ASSETS

(SEE MAP IN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY FOR ALL ASSETS)

CATEGORY EXAMPLES

recreation Facilities

� Facilities may be owned and operated by a local volunteer association or society

� These facilities typically hosted agricultural related activities such as farmers' markets and rodeos

� Ardrossan Recreation Complex

� Bruderheim Agricultural Grounds

� Josephburg Gymkhana Grounds

� Lamont Recreation Complex

� Moyer Recreation Centre

� South Cooking Lake Rec Centre

� Tofield Rodeo Grounds

retail

� These operations enable agricultural producers to interact directly with consumers however this interaction does not occur at the point of production

� These operations bring visitors and tourists from outside the community

� Country Boyz Treasure Chest

� Country Style Meats

� Kastelen Sausage & Fine Meats

� Old Country Sausage (Bruderheim)

� Ross Creek Market

� Sherwood Park Farmers' Markets (several locations)

� Tofield Farmers' Market


nATure-BASed TOuriSm ASSeTS

CATEGORY

Accommodations

� These accommodations are located to leverage their settings in a natural environment

� The competitive advantage of these accommodations is their surroundings and proximity to nature

EXAMPLES

� Black Nugget Campground

� Blue Bird RV Park

� Buzzard Gulch Campground

� Camp Van Es & Conference Centre

� Chipmunk Bed & Breakfast

� Elk Island Retreat Ltd

� Half Moon Lake Resort

� Kawtikh RV Retreat

� Lamont RV Park

� Miquelon Lake Provincial Park Campground

� Osler Lake Group Camp

� Sandy Beach Campground

� Suffolk House Bed & Breakfast

� Tofield Campground

education

� Primary purpose is to teach and educate about the natural environment

� Astotin Lake Interpretive Centre

� Beaverhill Lake Nature Centre

� Elk Island National Park Interpretive Centre

� Friends of Blackfoot Interpretive Centre

� Strathcona Wilderness Centre

Miscellaneous

� Includes airports that can enhance the tourism industry acting as a resource

� Alternatively an airport can be an attraction unto itself

� South Cooking Lake Airport

� Tofield Airport

� Warren Thomas Aerodrome (Josephburg)

Parks

� These are locations that act as staging areas for activities that specifically enable visitors/tourists to access the natural environment

� Astotin Lake Day Use Area (Elk Island National Park)

� Joseph Lake/Centennial Park

� South Cooking Lake Day Use Area

� Tawayik Lake Day Use Area

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta


nATure-BASed TOuriSm ASSeTS (cOnT)

Wilderness

• These are specific areas that provide environments to protect or enhance the natural environment

• These areas are often accessible for only experienced outdoors visitors and are often not set up to enable easy access for people

• Beaver Hills Bird Observatory

• Bry Com Development Inc• Cooking Lake-Blackfoot

Provincial Recreation Area

• Waskahegan Staging Area

• Islet Lake Staging Area

• Blackfoot Lake Staging Area

• Central Staging Area

• Meadow Day Use Site

• Lost Lake Group Site

• Running Dog Group Site

• Ministik Game Bird Sanctuary

• Miquelon Lake Provincial Park Backcountry

• Miequelon Lake Wildlands

• Wilson Wildlife Habitat

recreation

� These facilities, many of them golf courses, have appeal, primarily due to their setting

� Ackenberry Trout Farm

� Beaver Hill Lodge

� Belvedere Golf & Country Club

� Bent Stick Golf Course

� Broadmoor Public Golf Course

� Countryside Golf Course

� Eagle Rock Golf Course

� Elk Island Golf Course

� Fox Run Golf Course

� Legends Gold & Country Club

� Long Shotz Driving Range

� Miquelon Hills Golf Course

� Northern Bear Golf Club

� Sherwood Park Fish & Game Gun Range

� Sherwood Park Golf Course

� Sundowner's Golf Academy

� Tofield Golf & Country Club

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta

Travel Alberta

Beaver Hills

CATEGORY EXAMPLES


heriTAge/culTure-BASed TOuriSm ASSeTS

CATEGORY EXAMPLES

Historical

� These assets directly refer to and acknowledge the history and heritage of its locale

� Some assets vary in scale but each provides some interpretation of the history of the region

� Amisk Wuche Trail Cairn

� Bremner House

� Canadian Moravian Museum

� Dominion Forest Ranger Station Cairn

� Fort Scott Memorial Cenotaph

� Friends of Blackfoot Interpretive Centre

� HSMBC Preservation of the Plains Bison Monument

� Kingman Museum

� Lakeview Dance Hall Fireplace

� Monument to Wasyl Eleniak

� Skaro Shrine

� St Astotin Ukrainian Pioneer Cottage

� St. Margaret’s Catholic Church

� Telegraph Park

� Tofield Historical Museum


� Walker School Museum (Bruderheim)

Miscellaneous

� LA Galleria

� Strathcona Olympiette Centre

spiritual

� Many of these churches are active and provide services of worship to their congregations

� These churches reflect the cultural history and heritage of the area

� The architecture of the structures themselves attracts visitors as well

� Bethlehem Lutheran Church (Bruderheim)

� Bruderheim Moravian Church (Bruderheim)

� Josephburg United Church of Christ

� Lamont United Church

� Lamont Alliance Church

� Pope John Paul II Commemorative Plaque

� Russo-Greek Catholic Orthodox Church of St. John the Baptist

� St. Bonaventure Roman Catholic Church

� St. John the Baptist/Ukrainian Church

� St. Mary’s Holy Dormition Russo-Greek Orthodox Church


Food services (Historically Themed)

� A key tenant of these establishments is the structure within which each operates. The location is a strong reference to the history of the community

� Firehall Diner

� Footloose Caboose Restaurant

� Katie’s Crossing

heriTAge/culTure-BASed TOuriSm ASSeTS

CATEGORY EXAMPLES

APPENDIX 3

INVENTORY OF RESOURCES

The following list of secondary research and documents were used in the preparation of the Tourism Development Opportunity Assessment for the Beaver Hills.

� Agri-Environment Services Branch, Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada

� Alberta Agriculture & Rural Development Website (www.agtourism.ca)

� Alberta Conservation Association Website

� Alberta Destination Marketing Organizations Websites

� Alberta Environment Website

� Alberta Fish & Game Association Website Alberta Land Stewardship Act – 2009 (ALSA) – ATPR Website

� Alberta Land-Use Framework – ATPR Website – 2010

� Alberta Plan for Parks – ATPR Website

� Alberta Sustainable Resource Development Website

� Alberta Tourism Destination Assessment Manual, Canadian Badlands – Draft, Canadian Badlands Ltd., January 2010

� ATPR, Tourism Information System (TIF) Website

� Attendance / Visitation Statistics Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area 2009/2010

� Attendance Records Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, ATPR Website

� Beaver County Community Economic Development Strategy 2010 Beaver Hills Heritage Appreciation Plan – Alberta Parks & Protected Areas, Alberta Community Development, 2004

� Beaver Hills Initiative Website (www.beaverhills.ab.ca)

� Beaver Hills Initiative Preliminary Tourism and Recreation Inventory – 2007

� Boomtown Trail Association Marketing Brochures and Website (www.boomtowntrail.com)


INVENTORY OF RESOURCES Continued


� “Building Tourism – A Resource For Development” – Alberta Tourism Product Development Branch

� Central Alberta Economic Partnership Website (www.centralalberta.ab.ca)

� Conservation Magazine – Fall/Winter 2009

� Economic Activity and Ecosystems Services in the North Saskatchewan River Basin; North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance, March 2010

� Economic Development Plan Documents from: Strathcona County, Leduc County / Nisku Economic Development Authority, Beaver County, Lamont County

� Ecotourism and Sustainable Development in Biosphere Reserves: Experiences and Prospects, Workshop Summary Report, 2002

� Edmonton & Area Land Trust Website Municipal Development Plans of Strathcona County, Lamont County, Beaver County, Camrose County, Leduc County

� Edmonton’s Countryside 2010/2011 Marketing Brochure

� Edmonton Regional Tourism Group Economic Impact Study 2008

� Elk Island National Park Patterns of Visitor Use Survey 2005/06, IPSOS, REID, 2008

� Elk Island National Park Management Plan – 2005

� Elk Island National Park State of the Park Report (Draft) 2010

� Environmental Sustainability Framework, Strathcona County, 2010

� Kalyna Country 2010 Visitors and Events Guide

� Nature Conservancy of Canada Website

� North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance 2005 Canadian Heritage Rivers

� Numerous promotional brochures of private tourism operators / establishments located within the Beaver Hills

� Parks & Recreation Master Plans / Community Development Plan Documents of Strathcona, Lamont, Beaver, Camrose and Leduc Counties

� Parks Canada Agency Corporate Plan

� Parks Canada Corporate Plan 2010/2011 – 2014 – 2015

� Provincial Recreation Strategy for Public Lands: Situational Analysis 2009

� Recreational Vehicle Camping in Alberta – Supply Demand Perspective ATPR, 2009

� Royal Astronomical Society Website; Dark Sky Preserve

� Strathcona County Community Heritage Legacy Framework – December 2009

� System Background Study, North Saskatchewan River, Alberta Environment 1989

� The Waskahegan Trail Guide Book; Waskahegan Trail Association, 2009

� Tourism in Edmonton and Area Tourism Destination Region – A Summary of 2008 Visitor Numbers and Characteristics, ATPR, 2010

� Tourism in Edmonton’s Countryside in 2008, Performance and Socio Economic Impacts, Edmonton Regional Tourism Group 2009

� Travel Alberta Marketing publications including “Travel Alberta Stay”, “2010 Official Campground Guide”, “Festivals and Events Guide”

APPENDIX 4

STAKEHOLDER GROUPS CONSULTED

1. Alberta Abilities Lodges Society

2. Alberta Agriculture & Rural Development

3. Alberta Hiking Association

4. Alberta Off Highway Vehicle Association

5. Alberta Parks

6. Alberta Tourism, Parks & Recreation

7. Alberta Trail Net Society

8. Alberta Trail Riding Association

9. Alberta Equestrian Federation

10. Alberta TrailNet

11. Alberta Wilderness Association

12. Alberta Off Highway Vehicle Association

13. Ardrossan Recreation and Agricultural Society

14. Barr Estate Winery

15. Beaver County

16. Beaver Hills Initiative

17. Birch Bay Ranch

18. Birkebeiner & Friends of Blackfoot

19. Canadian Birkebeiner Society

20. Boomtown Trail

21. Camrose County

22. City of Fort Saskatchewan

23. Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area staff

24. Country Boyz Treasure Chest

25. Country Road Greenhouses Inc.

26. Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve

27. Economic Development Department (Camrose County)

28. Edmonton Geocachers

29. Elk Island National Park - Parks Canada

30. Elk Island Retreat

31. Friends of Blackfoot Society

32. Friends of Elk Island Society

33. Friends of the Ukrainian Village Society

34. Geocaching Edmonton

35. Kalyna Country Eco Museum

36. Lamont Agricultural Society

37. Lamont County

38. Leduc County Community Services

39. Miquelon Provincial Park

40. Nature Conservancy of Canada

41. Parks Canada - Elk Island National Park

42. Royal Astronomical Society of Canada

43. Sherwood Park & District Chamber of Commerce

44. Strathcona County

45. Strathcona Wilderness Centre

46. Suffolk House Bed & Breakfast

47. Alberta Sustainable Resource Development

48. Tri-County Snowmobile Club

49. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

50. University of Alberta

51. Van Es Camp & Conference Centre

52. Waskahegan Trail Association

53. Watchable Wildlife Tours
