Banff National Park’s superintendent instructed Parks Canada wildlife personnel to relocate a black bear near a ski resort due to safety concerns, as revealed by documents obtained by CBC News. In an email dated October 29, 2025, Sal Rasheed expressed that the risk to trail users was too significant to ignore. Consequently, two days later, the black bear denning near the Goat’s Eye gondola station and access road at Sunshine Village Ski Resort was moved.
Despite objections from wildlife staff, Rasheed defended the decision, likening it to relocating animals in other high-traffic areas. However, wildlife staff believed that alternative management strategies could safeguard the bear’s well-being while ensuring public safety and minimizing disruptions to the ski resort. Their suggestions included immediate closure of the den vicinity to the public and restricting vehicle speeds, with a long-term goal of relocating the access road away from the den.
Sunshine Village staff reported the bear’s presence near the gondola station, emphasizing the imminent increase in skier traffic once the resort opened. Wildlife staff proposed various measures, including complete area closure, limited traffic access, or bear relocation. Concerns were raised about the negative perception of moving the bear and potential violations of Parks Canada’s ecological integrity mandate.
Despite the wildlife staff’s reservations, the decision to move the bear was implemented, causing emotional distress among the team. The relocation, which occurred on October 31, led to the closure of the west side of Eagle Mountain. While experts had differing opinions on the best course of action, the move was viewed as a precautionary measure to mitigate risks to both the public and the bear. Parks Canada did not respond to interview requests, but a spokesperson later clarified the rationale behind the decision.
