Banff National Park - Calgary, Alberta

BANFF NATIONAL PARK

ECO - TOURISM

BLDG58380 ECOLOGY & SUSTAINABILITY

SUBMITTED TO: AMIT ARORA

BY: SOMDAT TULARAM

AUGUST 6TH 2023

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

"In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we honour and acknowledge that the townsite of Banff is located on traditional Treaty 7 territory. These sacred lands are a gathering place for the Niitsitapi from the Blackfoot Confederacy, of whom the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani First Nations are part; the Îyârhe Nakoda of the Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations; the Tsuut’ina First Nation; the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III within the historical Northwest Métis Homeland, and many others whose histories, languages, and cultures continue to enrich our vibrant community.

The Bow Valley has also long been important to the Ktunaxa and Secwépemc First Nations who traditionally occupied lands and used the watersheds of the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers and the eastern slopes of the Rockies. The area was also used by the Mountain Cree clan of Chief Peechee, and the Dene of the far north and far south.

The Town of Banff is continuously learning about the rich and complex histories of Indigenous peoples in this region and is working to refine how the organization can better understand and acknowledge Indigenous peoples that have and continue to contribute to the area. We recognize the land as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to those whose territory we reside on, or are visiting and acknowledge the many First Nations and Métis who have lived in and cared for these lands for generations." (Banff, 2023)

Fig. 1. Aerial view within Banff National

INTRODUCTION

Background of Banff National Park

Ever wondered where would be a good place that would have a thriving ecosystem that supports a wide range of wildlife? Or even a place that has stunning scenery when it comes to the landscape of the space? How about being able to explore a park where different types of outdoor activities may suit all interests and skill levels of different individuals?

In Alberta, Canada there is a national park called “Banff National Park”, which was the first park to be established back in 1885 as Canada’s first national park. This is an area that has undergone efforts to have unique conservation initiatives that focuses on maintaining the overall balance of the existing ecosystem that is there along with protecting the wildlife species by promoting sustainable tourism practice otherwise known as Eco-Tourism.

If you are planning on visiting the park for the first time, it’s recommended to do a bit of research to get a better understanding of the overall experience of the space. There are information booths in different areas throughout the park to help guide people which provides valuable information about the ecology of the park and fosters a deeper understanding of the park’s natural and cultural significance.

Looking at some of the key takeaways of Banff National Park would consist of the following:

Stunning Scenery Locations: If you are a person who enjoys being in a space that has a lot of things happening all at once while being surrounded by nature, this is a spot to go to. There are a lot of geological features at this park, this would include the dynamic valley ways that are present at Banff National Park.

Lake Paradise: At Banff National Park two well-known ironic lakes make a paradise for those who enjoy photo taking. Lake Louise & Moraine Lake are the most visited areas at Banff National Park due to the built environment of the surroundings of nature.

Wildlife Diversity: Ever wondered what natural beauty looks like for animals in their native habitat? Well at Banff National Park, there is an ecosystem with different kinds of wildlife within the wilderness of the park. Also, Grizzly Bears and Black Bears are known as the iconic Canadian Rockies symbols of the park.

Hot Springs: Always wondered what it felt like to be in one of those hot springs. Well at Banff National Park there are hot spring locations which offer a relaxing environment with a rejuvenating experience that you will always remember due to how the springs are established. The springs themselves are controlled by “Geothermal Waters” which is what makes it so pleasing.

Outdoor Activities: At Banff National Park there are different activities for anyone, this could range from hiking on long networks of trails up in the mountains or riding your bike on mountain trails. Or how about either canoeing or kayaking on the park's lakes while enjoying the views?

(Adukia, 2021) National Park

Why is "Ecotourism" Important?

What is "Eco-Tourism"?

Ecotourism can also be referred to as “Sustainable Tourism” or “Ecological Tourism”, to get a better understanding of the meaning behind the name “Eco-Tourism” let us use an example like Banff National Park. Let’s say you are travelling to this park, the reason why you may be going to this park is to have an experience that is enjoyable with nature. The main role of Eco-Tourism is to mitigate the overall impact of the environmental aspect of things while at the same time offering experience to individuals.

Looking at some of the main roles of “Ecotoursim” takes a look at consists of the following:

Conservation: this is if not the most important component of what has held together Banff National Park together over the years. It takes a look at the preservation of natural resources, wildlife and ecosystems while at the same time having different kinds of establishments and agreements set in place to support protected areas from any sort of development.

Low Impact: Some practices and policies are in place to minimize the overall impact of negative environmental impacts which are done by people. The way they have implemented this is by having restrictions on how and what people can do in areas throughout the park. Following rules that limit the number of people within the park at a given time, sticking to the designed trails and respecting the locals.

Many may have different views as to why they may think it’s important but they all have some common ground if you were to ask someone. They would speak about how the positive impacts on the environment benefit both people and nature. They could even mention anything from ecosystems to environmental footprints, but in the end, they are on the right track to the right answer.

The real reason why “Ecotourism” is important, specifically looking at Banff National Park is that this area has gained significant importance over the past few years due to the concerns of environmental degradation and climate change. As more people are travelling to places such as Banff National Park yearly there has been a need for responsible and sustainable practices.

Key components of "Ecotourism":

• Climate Change Mitigation

• Reduction to the overall Ecological

Footprint

• Environmental Protection

• Conservation Awareness

(Photography, 2022)

Fig. 2. Wildlife view of Banff National Park

IMPACTS

On Banff National Park

Ecotourism's vital role is to promote conservation efforts which expose awareness about the importance of the preservation of these unique ecosystems.

People who engage in “Ecotourism” activities value the appreciation of the environment and they become more conscious about the actions that are performed by others when it comes to the overall impact whether small or big.

Positive Impacts:

• Conservation & Area Awareness

Local Economic Benefits

Biodiversity & Ecosystem Experiences

• Diversified Tourism

Negative Impacts

Environmental Damage

Wildlife Disturbance

• Proposed Developments

• Carbon Footprint

Heritage Concerns

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 3 . Nature of Banff National Park

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 5 . Nature of Banff National Park

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 4 . Nature of Banff National Park

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 6 . Nature of Banff National Park

RELEVANCE

Well, let’s see, for what was covered in Ecology & Sustainability Class there have been hints of similarities to this topic on many different fronts. For example, since “Ecotourism” is such a broad topic it can be broken down into different categories that were discussed within the semester. This would include areas of:

Sustainable Development Goals – Looking at the 17 Goals there are 4 which relate better to the topic of “Ecotourism” which are: Responsible Consumption & Production, Climate Action, Life Below Water & Life on Land.

Climate Change – This topic is a current issue that is happening right now and there have been case studies done which talked about how our actions are slowing damaging the planet.

Implementation of Responsible Landuse Planning –

Since Banff National Park is a protected park there have been agreements to build around the protected area with smart planning strategies which won’t interfere with the existing wildlife and habitat that’s nearby.

Environmental Protection – Looking at what that area is today it has a lot to show in terms of the overall process it had to undergo to ensure everything was managed in a way where awareness was important for the people.

Carbon Footprint – We all know how bad our Carbon Footprints are these days with the amount of waste or even idling of your car can have on the environment. Small impacts won't seem like much but it does add up over time, especially if millions of people are doing this day after day.

To Ecology & Sustainability Class

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 7 . Nature of Banff National Park

"We’re always looking for creative ways to host people without an unnecessary strain to the ecology of the park." (Stuart, 2021).

There is a lot to unfold when speaking about beauty such as Banff National Park but highlighting some of the importance of the space might paint a better picture for someone who may be interested in visiting this location for the first time or trying to get an idea of what “Ecotourism” is.

TOPIC TAKEAWAYS

The main takeaways of the characteristics & elements of this space consist of the following:

• Sustainable Practices

Wildlife Protection

• Habitatabe Restoration

• Preservation of Heritage

Environmental Regulations

• Endangered Species Awareness

• Environmental Protection & Awareness

Carbon Offset Initiatives

(Nature,

Fig. 8 . Nature of Banff National Park

(Nature, 2022)

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 9 . Nature of Banff National Park

CONCLUSION

Of Ecotourism & Banff National Park

Overall, Banff National Park serves as a beautiful and educational destination for nature lovers and those seeking to engage in responsible tourism practices. It offers a wide range of activities while maintaining a balanced ecosystem and protecting its unique wildlife and heritage.

The park is a prime example of ecotourism or sustainable tourism, focusing on conserving natural resources and protecting the environment while providing enjoyable experiences to visitors.

Ecotourism plays a vital role in promoting conservation efforts and raising awareness about environmental issues such as climate change and responsible land use planning.

Highlights:

• Carbon Offset Initiatives

Environmental Protection & Awareness

• Stunning Scenery Locations

• Stunning Scenery Locations

Lake Paradise

• Wildlife Diversity

• Historic Site Locations

Hot Springs

And finally “Ecotourism” key role was to? “Raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection and climate change mitigation”

(Nature, 2022)

Fig. 10 . View of Nature in Banff National

REFERENCES

Adukia, R. (Director). (2021). Banff to Jasper - Cinematic Drone Movie [Motion Picture]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmpxlhtraME&ab_channel=RohitAdukia Banff, T. o. (2023). Land Acknowledgement. Retrieved from Town of Banff: https://banff. ca/1259/Land-Acknowledgement

• Nature, W. o. (Director). (2022). Banff National Park | Stunning Canadian nature in 4K [Motion Picture]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7_O9DKsTbM&ab_ channel=WondersofNature

• Photography, H. C. (Director). (2022). Landscapes and Wildlife of Banff & Jasper National Park, Canada in 4k [Motion Picture]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=w3cKR22j52w&ab_channel=HarryCollinsPhotography

• Stuart, R. (2021, July 29th). Smother Nature: The struggle to protect Banff National Park. Retrieved from Canadian Geographic: https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/smothernature-the-struggle-to-protect-banff-national-park/

• https://2traveldads.com/ecotours-in-banff-canmore-alberta/

• http://parkscanadahistory.com/brochures/banff/guide-e-2021.pdf

https://www.banfflakelouise.com/

Fig. 11 . People Site Seeing Banff National Park