Forestry and Parks - Request for Proposal - FACILITY OPERATING AGREEMENT Elbow-Highwood-Sheep Facility Operating Group

Opportunity Description: Alberta Parks invites visitors to connect with nature through provincial park experiences and programs so as to discover, value, protect, and enjoy the natural world and the benefits it provides for current and future generations. The Alberta Parks system offers overnight camping facilities throughout the province, as well as facilities and services to support day visitors such as access to trails, picnic areas, boat launches, and other park facilities. To learn more, please visit Alberta Parks-About Us. Alberta Parks is seeking Proposals from businesses or organizations with demonstrated experience to operate and maintain the Elbow/Highwood/Sheep Facility Operating Group in Kananaskis Region under a Facility Operating Agreement. Under this contract, the Operator is responsible for the day-to-day tasks associated with running the facilities covered by the agreement, both those from which they generate revenue (e.g., campgrounds, group camping areas) and those from which they do not generate revenue (day use areas). Facility Operating Agreements are like a franchise model, with the Operator operating under the Alberta Parks brand, and being required to follow the Provincial Parks Fees Order, regulations, directives, performance standards, and business rules for consistency across the Alberta Parks system. This Facility Operating Agreement will be for a 10-year term commencing April 1, 2025, with a potential extension of up to 5 additional years. The Elbow-Highwood-Sheep FOG is located southwest of Calgary, Alberta. FOG facilities are situated along Highways 66, 40, 541, 546 and, 940 and provide opportunities for year-round recreation including camping, group camping, and a variety of day use activities. The Elbow-Highwood-Sheep FOG includes: • 44 day use areas (approximately 45% of them open year-round, many with high visitation throughout the year), 18 campgrounds (2 are open year-round, 6 are equestrian campgrounds), and 8 group campgrounds (1 open all year); • About 1,050 campsites, plus group camping areas with a maximum capacity of 250 units; • A mix of reservable and self-registration campsites, as well as serviced and unserviced campsites; • The McLean Creek Store, located near the entrance to McLean Creek Campground; • The Highwood House Store & Gas Station, located at the junction of Highway 40 and Highway 22; and, • Maintenance shop/yard facilities and some staff accommodation