The Alberta Environmental Appeals Board recently dismissed a challenge by concerned citizens regarding the construction of a motorsports park near Rosebud. The 2020 Water Act approval by Alberta Environment and Protected Places for the Badlands Motorsport Resort was upheld, with the panel determining that there wasn’t enough evidence to suggest that the racing complex would harm birds such as bank swallows, eagles, and falcons. The construction of the racetrack would involve filling in two wetlands and modifying three others. The ruling stated that while there would be some impact on wildlife, including the bank swallow and the little brown myotis, it would not be significant. The approval holder must submit a wetland monitoring program proposal annually to monitor the ecological health of the wetlands as a condition of the ruling.
Local farmers, such as Rick Skibsted and Wendy Clark, have been leading the effort to halt the development of the motorsports park. Skibsted, who is concerned about the impact on wildlife and the environment, expressed disappointment in the decision to approve the racetrack in critical habitat for species at risk. He highlighted the decline in the bank swallow population due to collisions with vehicles as a major concern. Clark also shared her worries about the impact on the land, water, and wildlife in the area, especially considering the pressure on the valley due to drought conditions. The CFO of Badlands Motorsport Resort, James Zelazo, reassured that the racetrack would not impact wildlife and stated that the company complies with all regulations. Construction is expected to start this fall, pending financing availability.
The Badlands Motorsport Resort’s final project includes plans for a $500-million motorsports park and residential complex near the Rosebud River, 100 km east of Calgary. The Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) objected to the province’s prioritization of development over the health of vital ecological spaces. Conservation specialist Ruiping Luo stated that the loss of prairie habitat, especially in critical areas for at-risk species like the bank swallow, is concerning. Skibsted reiterated the negative impact of the development on wetlands and emphasized the ongoing drought’s effects on the area. He mentioned the popularity of the area among birdwatchers and people using canoes or kayaks on the Rosebud River, highlighting its peaceful and quiet charm.
Despite the ruling in favor of the motorsports park, residents and environmental groups are not giving up the fight. Clark expressed optimism and stated that there are still many options ahead for opposing the project. Skibsted emphasized that the development would destroy a unique set of wetlands and fragment the area, which he considered a harmful idea. He described the current dry conditions in the region and the destruction that would result from paving over a large area. Both Skibsted and Clark are committed to continuing their efforts to protect the environment and wildlife in the Rosebud area. The community’s determination to oppose the development indicates that the debate over the motorsports park is far from over.
