Rocky View County is asking residents to share their input on how the municipality should manage tourism-related development, such as outdoor attractions, visitor accommodations, and farm-based experiences. The feedback will help shape an upcoming Emerging Sector Strategy, which aims to guide growth in the tourism, technology, and energy sectors.
The County is hosting three public open houses to gather community priorities and concerns. Residents are invited to attend the following events from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.:
- Langdon: Wednesday, May 27, at the Track Golf Course.
- Springbank: Tuesday, June 2, at the C3 Church West.
- Bragg Creek: Wednesday, June 3, at the Community Centre.
Those who cannot attend in person can also provide their input through an online survey. This engagement process comes as the County works to modernize its planning policies, following the recent adoption of a new Municipal Development Plan and an Agriculture Master Plan. With 91 percent of the land zoned for agriculture, balancing tourism opportunities with the protection of farmland remains a central goal.
Local communities currently face varying pressures regarding tourism growth. For instance, the Bragg Creek and Area Chamber of Commerce, which operates with an all-volunteer board, has acted as the default authority for tourism coordination due to the absence of a dedicated County tourism department. Additionally, residents in areas like Bragg Creek have expressed concerns regarding visitor management, including the handling of waste and wildlife attractants in busy communal spaces.
These discussions follow recent land-use decisions, including the Council’s refusal of a proposed resort community near Bragg Creek in 2018. Through this new strategy, the County aims to create a clear framework that addresses these regional challenges while supporting economic diversification.
