Icefields skywalk draws criticism

Environmentalists are panning a proposed observation deck at Jaspers Columbia Icefields.

Brewster Travel Canada wants to build a 400-metre sky walkand glass-floored observation decksuspendedfrom a cliff face at the Tangle Ridge Viewpointon the Icefields Parkway.

The deck would expose visitors to "incredible stunning views" where "they would really learn about the glaciology, the geology of the area, why it's so significantand experience the full power of nature," said Brewster president Michael Hannan.

Brewster has been running tours in the park for decades andalready operatestour buses that go out ontothe icefield.

The observation deck would get visitors out of their cars toexperience the icefield in a more rewarding way, he said.The cost would bebetween $15 and $30.

Parks Canada on board

The deck itselfwould have little impact on the environment, using an existing pullout, 6.5 kilometres north of the Icefield Centre, Hannan said.

Parks Canadalikes the idea which fits well with the management plan, said Shawn Cardiff,manager of land-use planning andpolicy for the park.

Jasper National Park is always looking fornew ways to attract visitors, he said

"The Icefield Parkway areais kind of a signature area for Jasper National Park;fairly unique, where we have a glacier close to the road."

Environmentalistsworry about the sky walk's impact on park wildlife andthe wilderness experience for visitors.

Catering to business: environmentalists

Parks Canada's mandate is to put wildlife and wilderness first, said Jill Seaton with the Jasper Environmental Association.

"This is catering to a business company."

She also wonders about charging people for a view that is currently free.

"I don't think thisisgoing to get more people there, this is just going to be a stop on the highway which is desecrating a place which is already simply beautiful."

Public hearings have been held in Banff and Jasper. Anopen house is being held in Edmonton Thursday.