By Rob Vogt The provincial government has announced it is developing new rules to govern the exploration and development of coal.The province recently announced the Alberta Coal Industry Modernization Initiative, that will prohibit mountaintop removal mining and ban new open-pit mines in the foothills, while increasing coal royalties.It was stated this initiative will guide coal mining practices with a goal … Read more…
By Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The Government of Alberta says it has an obligation to some coal companies to allow open-pit mining despite the practice being banned under the province’s new coal policy, but these “contractual relationships” aren’t quite formal contracts. When Energy and Minerals Minister Brian Jean announced details of the province’s coal industry “modernization” initiative on Dec. … Read more…
By Somya Lohia, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter In a unique blend of tradition and conservation, dozens of people gathered Saturday near Buffalo Rock Tipi Camp in Piikani Nation to participate in the annual Peigan Friends Along the River fish rescue. This drive, founded by Harley Bastien in 1990, aims to save fish trapped in the irrigation canal after water levels drop … Read more…
By Somya Lohia, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter In the heart of Pincher Creek, a land parcel serves as a beloved community space featuring a picturesque walking trail and off-leash dog park where residents enjoy the tranquility of nature. However, beneath its surface lies a rich tapestry of history that remains largely unrecognized. According to town councillor David Green, this land may … Read more…
By Mickey Dumont Local Journalism Initiative Reporter With five large renewable projects in various stages of planning and approval, MD of Willow Creek administration is continually informing council and rural ratepayers on the status of these applications.“It’s on the agenda for public information,” chief administrative officer Derrick Krizsan said, referring to the Oct. 9 municipal planning commission meeting.“These are really … Read more…
By Mickey Dumont While not yet wreaking havoc and destruction in the MD of Willow Creek, its animal control by-law is being updated so a plan is in place to deal with wild boars (feral pigs) should they migrate into the municipal district.Chief administrative officer Derrick Krizsan told the agricultural service board (ASB) at its Sept. 25 meeting, “We should … Read more…
Amid rising temperatures and high levels of wildfire activity, Health Canada is reminding people living in Alberta about the health risks that come with exposure to fire, smoke and extreme heat. Wildfire smoke can travel thousands of kilometers from a fire zone and is a major source of harmful air pollutants. There is no safe level of exposure for most … Read more…