Energy Strategies In Canadian Rockes Backcountry Huts

Abstract

This paper studies two backcountry fixed roof accommodations that are found within Canada’s Rocky Mountains in provincially and federally protected lands. An understanding of their purpose within the management plan of their respective National or Provincial park will be discussed along with the possibility of future accommodations within the park. A basic outline of energy strategies, used and potential, will weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each. An evaluation of their energy use and strategies will be completed based on the respective huts CO2 emissions followed by an economic analysis. Recommendations will follow based on the results in the emission and economic analysis. CO2 emissions vary between the two huts, and the decrease of these emissions is the ultimate goal of this paper. Emissions through wood, propane and helicopter flights are compared between Bow Hut and Assiniboine Lodge to better understand how differing strategies and amenities can affect the cost to run a lodge and the emissions associated with it’s use. These results should be shared with all parties that are currently involved with backcountry huts and any potential owners and operators that will be moving into this sector.