Alberta unveils oil-sands conservation plan

Proposal will leave most developments untouched

ALBERTA is proposing to convert 4.5m acres of prime oil-sands region into a conservation area, revoking undeveloped leases, although holders of conventional oil and gas rights would be exempted. Alberta Energy officials estimate about 14 energy and 10 mineral companies would be affected. Sustainable-resource development minister Mel Knight said the draft plan will be subject to a 60-day public comment period. He said the government is willing to consider the concerns of energy and mineral companies, but insisted Alberta is determined to protect sensitive habitat, wildlife and forests and balance economic development with conservation. If implemented, the plan will expand protected land in th