Surveillance Options Investigated to Deal with "Alarming" Vehicle Vandalism, Thefts in Kananaskis Country
Rocky Mountain Outlook
By Cathy Ellis
KANANASKIS – Alberta Parks is investigating use of surveillance options to deter vehicle vandalism and theft at day-use areas and trailheads in Kananaskis Country.
Ed Famatiga had windows smashed on his vehicle while parked at the Baldy Pass lot in spring, and although nothing was stolen, he reported it to the RCMP and fired off a letter to the Alberta government.
“I believe there’s a high hope to stop these unacceptable incidents,” Famatiga told the Outlook.
“I am really concerned about this… It is alarming how many hikers had been victims to this scenario.”
Areas that are commonly targeted include day-use and trailheads at Barrier Lake, Prairie Mountain, Heart Mountain trailhead, Mount Baldy North, Badly Pass trailhead, Jumping Pound and Galatea Lake.
Todd Loewen, the minister responsible for Alberta Parks, responded to Famatiga’s concerns in a letter on Wednesday (Sept. 3).
Loewen said trail cameras have been installed at certain staging areas and the department is investigating other infrastructure and surveillance options to deter vandals and thieves.
He said the ministry’s crown land law enforcement branch proactively patrols day-use areas and trailheads and responds to illegal activity.
“Patrols are increased in areas where concerns have been raised, and signage is posted in high traffic locations to remind visitors of safety tips,” he wrote in his letter to Famatiga.
“We are also reviewing infrastructure and surveillance options to better support prevention efforts.”
Loewen said the RCMP is responsible for investigating theft and vandalism, noting these crimes are often in areas where vehicles are unattended for long periods of time.
“Ministry enforcement officers, in collaboration with the RCMP, installed trail cameras at certain staging areas, which has led to the apprehension of individuals for similar offences,” he wrote.
“Conservation officers will continue to patrol Kananaskis day-use areas and trailheads, working to prevent vandalism and theft.”
Famatiga, who lives in Medicine Hat, said he was grateful the province did return his letter, noting the issue also harms Kananaskis Country’s reputation as a tourist destination.
“I want the park authorities to take this situation seriously,” he said.
The Outlook sought an interview with Alberta Parks, but no one was immediately available.