Serving Northern British Columbia
DECEMBER 2013
www.pgfreepress.com
LNG NEW ECONOMY?
A look at what drives the economy of northern B.C.
We Rock Your best resource for community news
A2
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A3
What’s Inside 2013 Sinopec joins LNG rush..........................................A4
5
Ottawa to examine four LNG projects....................A4
On the cover
Province thrilled at NEB ruling................................A4 TransCanada proposing two projects...............A5 Initiatives Prince George sees growth.....................A6
7
Premier pitches LNG in Asia............................. A7 What’s the rush on LNG?: Chiefs ..................... A9 LNG is the new LSD ........................................... A10
9
Leading standards for liquefied natural gas ......... A11 Northern B.C. development - in a nutshell .......... A12 Eyford report talks First Nations involvement ....... A13
15
Spectrum – An environment of innovation.....A15 Ottawa vows world-class spill protection ............. B1
Artist’s rendering of proposed liquefied natural gas plant near Kitimat.
Study looks at agricultural land use........................B3 Premier in Prince George for forum ...................... B4
B5
Hydro poll finds support for Site C .................. B5 Economic impact of pipelines.................................B6 Trials and tribulations of work camps......................B7
s ’ y r Lar
HEAVY HAULING 1990 LTD
24 HOUR SERVICE
Lowbed | Highboy | 24 Hour Service | Radio Dispatched | Tractor Service OUT OF TOWN CALL
Prince George Construction Association
1.877.561.1137
Over 20 Years Experience! 250.562.0065
LICENSED INSPECTION FACILITY
Local and Long Distance CALL 250-561-1137 • www.larrysheavyhauling.ca larrysheavyhaul@telus.net • 9267 Penn Rd, Prince George.BC
Licensed for Western Canada, Yukon, & Ontario
A4
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
Sinopec joins LNG rush in B.C. Tom Fletcher Black Press Chinese petrochemical giant Sinopec, another Japanese player and an unidentified Indian company are joining the international move to explore liquefied natural gas exports from northern B.C., says Rich Coleman, B.C.’s minister for natural gas development. Sinopec, ranked the fifth largest global company in 2011, is looking for LNG imports equivalent to the output of the world’s second largest LNG terminal, Coleman told reporters as Premier Christy Clark began a trade trip to Asia.
Another new player is Idemitsu Kosan Co., the second-largest petroleum refiner in Japan, which is applying for a federal export permit in a partnership with Calgary-based AltaGas called Triton LNG. China National Overseas Oil Company and its new subsidiary Nexen has put up a non-refundable deposit of $12 million toward purchase of provincial land on the north side of Grassy Point near Prince Rupert, Coleman said. Another unidentified company has shown interest in the south side of Grassy Point. The new proposals add to a lineup of international investment proposed by Petronas, Chevron, Shell, British Gas and others, which are expected to make final invest-
Ask About Our…
Clean, comfortable rooms Reasonable rates Homestyle cooking from Grama’s kitchen Free wireless internet Kitchen suites ASK ABOUT OUR FRESH Executive suites PACKED FREE PLUG IN PARKING LUNCHES Welcome to
PREFERRED GUEST CARD
*
(Stay 10 Nights, Get 1 FREE!) (S Call for details.
ment decisions in 2014. Coleman said the tax rate for LNG producers is to be presented to companies
by the end of November, but it may not be public until the B.C. government tables its budget in February.
Federal cabinet to examine four LNG licence applications following NEB ruling Ottawa is going to take a look at four applications for licences to export liquefied natural gas, following the National Energy Board’s decision. The applicants are Pacific NorthWest LNG, Prince Rupert LNG, WCC LNG and Woodfibre LNG. “Following the National Energy Board’s decisions on four applications for licences to export liquefied natural gas, the federal government will now review the NEB’s decisions,” said Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver. “Subject to regulatory approval, the Harper government supports energy projects that will create jobs and generate economic growth in Canada for future generations. “Our government will only allow energy projects to proceed if they are found to be safe for Canadians after an independent, science-based environmental and regulatory review. “With our plan for Responsible Resource Development, we have increased the protection of the environment, streamlined regulatory reviews and are aggressively working to reach new markets for Canadian natural resources. Federal cabinet approval is required before the licences can be issued by the National Energy Board.”
*Not to be combined with any other offer or promotion
TO GO!
1-877-563-7174 Tel: 250-563-7174 Email: info@gramasinn.com
www.gramasinn.com RECOGNIZED BUSINESS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE
901 Central St, Prince George, BC Canada V2M 3C8
Looking For
Red Seal Journeymen Electricians
Both men & women
for Industrial Work in Northern BC ✓$35.23/Hr
Province thrilled at LNG approvals The province is certainly enthused about the National Energy Board approval of four LNG projects in British Columbia. “These export approvals mark a major milestone in our efforts to create jobs and grow our economy by leveraging our abundant supply of natural gas,” said Deputy Premier and Minister of Natural Gas Development Rich Coleman, in a press release. “Now that the NEB has approved the applications, we look forward to a timely decision from the federal government so that we can ensure these companies are positioned to make final investment decisions as quickly as possible.” The four applications approved by the National Energy Board were: • Prince Rupert LNG Exports Ltd., proposed by the BG Group. • Pacific NorthWest LNG Ltd., proposed by PETRONAS/Progress Energy. • WCC LNG Ltd., representing Imperial Oil and ExxonMobil Canada Ltd. • Woodfibre LNG Export Pte. Ltd., proposed by Woodfibre Natural Gas Limited. These four submissions will now be reviewed by the Government of Canada and remain subject to approval by the Governor
LARGEST SPRING INVENTORY in Central BC Over 40 Years of Experience
• Custom Built Trailer Axles • Leaf Springs For Cars, Trucks & Trailers • Overload Springs • Trailer Axles & Suspensions • Trailer Hubs, Brakes, Etc. • U-bolts Made to Order • Coil Springs • RV Brake Services
✓12% Holiday Pay Every Paycheck Medical & Dental After 90 Days
membership@ibew 993.org
“Full Service Spring Shop”
We Specialize In:
✓$5.10/Hr into RRSPS
Email a resume with names and phone numbers of 3 references and copies of tickets to
in Council. The NEB is an independent federal regulator of Canada’s energy industry. Its purpose is to regulate pipelines, energy development and trade in the Canadian public interest. According to the province: • Prior to these approvals, the NEB has issued export licences to three other LNG proponents: • A 20-year export licence was approved in February 2012 for the Douglas Channel Energy project (Texas company/Haisla Nation/Golar LNG and an investor to be named later). • A 20-year licence was granted in October 2011 to Kitimat LNG (Apache Corp. and Chevron Canada). • LNG Canada (Shell and co-venture partners) received an export licence in February 2013. • If five LNG facilities move forward, the cumulative gross domestic product benefit to British Columbia could total $1 trillion by 2046, according to the province. • LNG export operations in B.C. could create over 100,000 new jobs in British Columbia and new revenues for government.
Services: • Spring – Rebuilding & Repairs • Custom Leaf Spring Mfg. • Hitch Installations • Trailer Wiring • Welding & Fabricating • Axle Sales & Service
40
VIN RS SER G THE NOR A E Y T
H 250-562-9090 • 1-800-663-3228 Out of Town Customers Call No Charge • We Will Ship Anywhere
Open Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm 1936 S. Quinn, Prince George, BC V2N 1X5
w w w. i n l a n d s p r i n g s . c o m
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A5
TransCanada looks globally Bill Phillips Northern Report Beijing is ringed by eight or nine coalfired power plants. It’s part of the reason the city has such smog issues. China also has a burgeoning middle class. John Dunn, vice-president Trans– Canada Pipeline, Prince Rupert Gas Transmission who was on the premier’s November trade mission to Asia, said they were told that about 350 million Chinese (roughly the population of the United States) will move to cities in that country by 2025 and 150,000 more Chinese will enter the middle class. And, as elsewhere in the world, the middle class puts demands on government. “There is an increasing appetite in Asia for clean-burning natural gas,” Dunn said at a North Central Local Government Association lunch in Prince George December 13. “There are strong demands that China wean itself off of coal.” In other words, the provincial rush to get into the liquefied natural gas business is not a pipe dream. Asia’s thirst for natural gas is only going to increase. “The LNG business is truly a global business,” he said. “It’s not just a big business, but it is a global business. The companies that are involved are not just big energy companies, they are the biggest companies in the world.” TransCanada Pipeline’s role in all that is just a small portion of the global business. But in terms of British Columbia, and the North in particular, it’s pretty big. TransCanada operates more natural gas pipeline than anyone else in North America with about 68,000 kilometres of high-pressure gas transmission lines. The company is proposing to build another 1,600 kilometres in two pipelines across northern B.C. “When it comes to natural gas transmission, we would argue that no one does it better,” he said. TransCanada, which has been operating in B.C. for more than 50 years, is also Canada’s largest private generator of power, cranking out about the same amount of power as BC Hydro. “One-third of that is generated from renewables,” he said. Currently, LNG from British Columbia and Alberta is distributed specifically to the North American market, which is about to change. “Moving gas to the coast and then put-
Teresa MALLAM/Free Press John Dunn, vice-president TransCanada Pipeline, Prince Rupert Gas Transmission speaks at a North Central Local Government Association luncheon in Prince George.
ting it into LNG vessels and taking it into the global market, is very much a natural evolution of what TransCanada has been doing, for years,” he said. TransCanada is proposing two projects designed specifically to enter that global market. The Coastal Gaslink project will pipe natural gas from northeastern B.C. to Kitimat. It will, when in full operation, deliver 3.6 billion cubic feet of gas per day. The Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Project will ship natural gas from Hudson’s Hope to Port Edward near Prince Rupert. It will supply Petronas’ facility and will also be 3.6 billion cubic feet per day. “These are very, very substantive lines,” he said. Between the two … about $12 billion investment in the North.
PREMIER’S BC NATURAL RESOURCE FORUM Our Resources - Our Future
Mike Morris, MLA, Prince George-Mackenzie, is pleased to present the
PREMIER’S BC NATURAL RESOURCE FORUM January 22 & 23, 2014 • Prince George Civic Centre, 808 Civic Plaza, Prince George, BC
SPEAKERS INCLUDE: · Steve Berna - COO, First Nations Finance Authority · Shirley Bond - Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour · Greg d’Avignon - President and CEO, Business Council of British Columbia . Richard Dunn - Vice-President, Regulatory & Government Relations, Encana Corporation · James Gorman - President and CEO, Council of Forest Industries
AUTHORIZED FACTORY WA R R A N T Y D E P O T R e p a i r s To A l l M a k e s o f We l d e r s M I L L E R , H O B A RT, L I N C O L N , A LW, T H E R M A L D Y N A M I C S
250.562.2728 1.800.374.6766
DEUTZ - PERKINS - VOLVO 7 H.P. TO 9800 H.P. AIR & WATER COOLED SALES - SERVICE - PARTS
1846 Quinn St., Prince George
PREMIER CLARK
MIKE MORRIS
Premier Christy Clark Luncheon Keynote Speaker, Wednesday, January 22, 2014
MLA, Prince George - Mackenzie
· Tony Jensen - President and CEO, Royal Gold Inc. · Greg Kist - President, Pacific NorthWest LNG · Annita McPhee - President and CEO, of the Tahltan Central Council · Jacques Perron - CEO, Thompson Creek Metals
th REGISTRATION CLOSES JAN 10 You can register online @ www.bcnaturalresourcesforum.com
Expanded Trade Show open to the public!
DON’T MISS OUT!
A6
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
5239 CONTINENTAL WAY • PRINCE GEORGE PH: ȍ250Ȏ 561ǧ0646 • FAX: ȍ250Ȏ 562ǧ3260
RIDE WITH THE JAMES’ GANG PRINCE GEORGE • WILLIAMS LAKE • FORT ST JOHN
PRINCE GEORGE WILLIAMS LAKE • FORT ST JOHN
FORT ST JOHN LOCATION ONLY
FORT ST JOHN LOCATION ONLY
Prince George will see the growth Ashley MacDonald-Venis Northern Report Prince George is on track for major economic expansion in the next five to 10 years, according to Initiatives Prince George. The city’s economic development corporation, which aims to diversify the economic resources of Prince George to help create resiliency and growth over time, is eyeing growth in all the region’s industrial supply sectors due to the $70-plus billion of resource and resource related projects planned and underway in the north. “We are the largest city [in the north] and one of the fastest growing regions in the country. All of the drivers of our economy remain the resource sectors and our supply chain within those areas … the people that supply and service the industrial and resource industries are going to continue to see growth,” said Heather Oland, CEO of IPG. One of the encouraging indicators of a healthy economic future is when small to medium businesses Heather Oland are investing in themselves, according to Oland. Businesses capable of hiring more staff or expanding because they are comfortable that they will still be lucrative in five years is a big change in Prince George from 10 years ago. “[Businesses] used to work as hard as [they] could while the work was here, but that’s not the case anymore. Businesses are investing in themselves,” said Oland. As Prince George and northern B.C. grows, the advantages to relocating here expand as well, due to improvements to educational opportunities, amenities, and the cost of living. “You can go from kindergarten to a PhD [in Prince George]; we [have] great trades training facilities; affordable housing options; green spaces; two performing theatres, said Oland. “[Those] are things that people look for when considering a move to a city.” The one area that is still in the beginning stages of expanding is the entrepreneurial aspect of the workforce. “Increasing the services that we offer to the young startups is definitely growing, but I think that would round out the offerings that we have for people,” said Oland.
All of the drivers of our economy remain the resource sectors and our supply chain in those areas
WANTED: Dead or Alive! Heavy Duty trucks ~ Heavy Duty equipment Specializing in used Heavy Duty Truck Parts
We Buy Scrap Metal
Frontier F ti Sales S and Salvage 9136 Milwaukee Way Prince George
WWW.JAMESWS.COM
250-561-0100
or 250-612-7464 • Fax 250-561-1878
email: frontiersalessalvage@telus.net
BUY • SELL • TRADE
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A7
Premier Christy Clark attends reception for participants in a two-week Asia trade mission in November. About 200 people visited China, Japan and Korea.
Premier pitches LNG in Asia Tom Fletcher Black Press Premier Christy Clark set off last month on her fourth trade mission to Asia, after sidestepping questions about the environmental impact of liquefied natural gas export plants on the Kitimat-area environment. A new report from environment group Skeena Wild concludes that if three LNG processing plants are built to burn natural gas for compression and cooling – what the industry calls direct drive – they would use two and a half times more gas than Metro Vancouver. The report calls for modern gas-fired power plants to be built outside the narrow Kitimat Valley to reduce the impact of sulphur dioxide and other pollutants that affect air and
water quality. Speaking to reporters at Vancouver airport, Clark rejected the report’s claim that the government has “tacitly endorsed” the use of direct-drive production of LNG. “The study can’t have final answers on any of that, because they don’t know yet how liquefied natural gas plants will be powered,” Clark said. “We don’t know how many there will be. We’re still in negotiations with the companies about how all that’s going to unfold.” Environment Minister Mary Polak said in an interview that one LNG proposal has applied for an environmental assessment, and two others are in discussions on B.C.’s technical requirements for a permit and how the plants would be powered. “Nothing like that has been finalized yet, and of course we are concerned about what that means for a con-
strained airshed like Kitimat, because we know that there are a number of facilities proposed for Kitimat,” Polak said. Polak announced in October that $650,000 has been spent on a study of LNG impact in northwestern B.C. Results are expected by the end of March. U.S. Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Malaysian LNG investors expected to make final investment decisions on B.C. proposals later in 2014. The expansion of Rio Tinto-Alcan’s aluminum smelter has already required a 50 per cent increase in the plant’s allowable sulphur dioxide emissions, from 27 to 42 tonnes a day. New technology is expected to reduce the smelter’s output of fine particulates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, fluoride and other pollutants when the upgrade is in operation in 2014.
Proud supplier of... Black Bucket Trygg Cat Wearparts Skidder Blades Chain Sharq Whitmore Trygg Tire Edges Lubricants Chain
1867 1st Avenue, Prince George, B.C. TOLL FREE 1-800-372-3386 • 250-564-3391 or 250-961-0401 • FAX 250-564-3361
www.morfcosupply.ca
A8
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A9
What’s the rush on LNG?: Chiefs Bill Phillips Northern Report What’s the rush? That was the message from chiefs at the B.C. First Nations LNG Summit in Prince George in October. With the provincial government touting five liquefied natural gas plants possible for the Northwest in the coming years, and as pipeline proposals come rolling through First Nations territory, they are feeling under the gun. “We’re really feeling the pressure, from not only the provincial government, but the proponents,â€? said Carrier Sekani Tribal Chief Terry Teegee. “Really, we should be dealing with the two levels of government.â€? He added that First Nations have limited resources to examine these projects properly to determine whether they are in the band’s interest or not. Grand Chief Edward John was a little more direct, using his band as an example. “There’s a proposal for Trans Canada Pipeline to go through adjacent to one of our villages,â€? he said. “Companies come in with a sense of urgency. We have to have a socioeconomic impact study done by the end of this month. The situation is this ... we have no resources in our communities, we have a company coming in with a pipeline who are expecting us to jump up and down at their beck and call.â€? He said the band has no help from the provincial or federal government to deal with these things. In this case, Trans Canada Pipeline gave the band $75,000 to help pay for some of the work required. “That’s welcomed by the community,â€? said John, “But a significant amount of money is required to make the kind of decisions that are required.â€? John says they are continually told that the demand is market driven and Canada has a small window of opportunity to get into the market. “We haven’t seen anything from any source that says there’s that sense of urgency,â€? John said. “I’ve been to China five times, no thanks to either government ‌ Somebody’s telling us there’s urgency here, and we don’t understand
0(7$/
We’re really feeling the pressure, not only from the provincial government, but from the proponents. Really, we should be dealing with two levels of government. - Tribal Chief Terry Teegee the source of that urgency, except somebody’s telling us it’s urgent. We have to slow this process down.� Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Judy WilsonRaybould said there is a bigger issue that needs to be solved first. “First Nations have been engaged and thinking about these situations for a long time,� she said. “They have been fundamentally wanting to solve the land question in British Columbia. We’re not opposed to development, but not at any cost.� She said First Nations want to find a balance between
7RS 3ULFHV 3URPSW 3D\PHQWV
5(&<&/,1* :H %X\ 6WHHO 7LQ &DU %RGLHV $1' 121 )(55286 0(7$/6 &RSSHU $OXPLQXP %UDVV 5DGLDWRUV 6WDLQOHVV 6WHHO
6HUYLFLQJ %& )RU 2YHU <HDUV 0RELOH &DU &UXVKHUV 0RELOH 7LQ %DOHUV 0RELOH 6KHDU 6FUDS &DU 3LFN 8S 3XEOLF :HLJK 6FDOHV 6LWH &OHDQXSV 5ROO 2II &RQWDLQHU 6HUYLFH 1HZ XVHG 6WHHO 6DOHV )ODW 'HFN 'HPR 7UDLOHU 6HUYLFH )5(( $SSOLDQFH 'URS 2II 1R )UHRQ 3OHDVH
5,&+021' 67((/ 5(&<&/,1* 3ULQFH *HRUJH 'LYLVLRQ D GLYLVLRQ RI 6LPV 0HWDO 0DQDJHPHQW
(DVWHUQ 6WUHHW 3ULQFH *HRUJH
economic development and ensuring that the land will be protected and sustained. “Our relationship has to go beyond the ribbon-cutting and the initial influx of money,� she said. “It has to be fundamentally more sustainable and comprehensive in terms of ensuring we’re in partnership with other governments and industry.� Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister John Rustad said he is currently working to developing a “strategic engagement agreement� with a group of First Nations within the Carrier Sekani to deal with the concerns.
Falcon Drilling
Ltd.
A Proven Company Providing Safe Quality Production CANADA, MEXIC
O, MONGO L
IA, BUR K
INA FA SO, AF
Delivering Excellence in Exploration Drilling
RICA
, AL A SKA, N
EVA
DA, U
SA
Falcon Drilling Ltd. is a proven company with over 27 years of experience providing contract drilling services worldwide. Our focus is to provide clients with maximum safe productivity on all projects. We offer multiple drill setups ranging from man portable to deep-hole exploration rigs. From start to ďŹ nish, Falcon Drilling is focused on achieving our goal of zero injuries or incidents. We are a world class company who believes in providing our clients world class service.
International Head OfďŹ ce 3549 Opie Crescent Prince George, B.C. Canada V2N 1B8 Tel: 250 564 7786 Fax: 250 562 5937 ofďŹ ce@falcon-drilling.com www.falcon-drilling.com
A10
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
LNG is the new LSD But it is no more a panacea for our ills than LSD was for hippies Roslyn Kunin TroyMedia VANCOUVER/ Troy Media/ - Back in the ‘60s the three magic letters were LSD. People were turning on, tuning in and dropping out with LSD, hoping to solve all their problems. It didn’t work. Today, in British Columbia, the three magic letters are LNG and they are presented as a solution to the province’s economic problems. Unfortunately, LNG (liquid natural gas) is no more a panacea for all ills than LSD was. It is an important component of the B.C. resource base, but the whole future of the B.C. economy cannot hinge on LNG alone. Why? Well, first, there is vocal opposition to the development of LNG. Environmental groups oppose ‘fracking’, the water-intensive process used to extract natural gas from shale, even though it is used extensively in the United States and elsewhere. There is also concern about the impact of transportation and other infrastructure needed to liquefy and deliver the gas to markets. While the validity of these concerns has been hotly debated, they do raise a real political issue for the B.C. government and are loud enough to create doubts in the minds of potential customers about the province’s ability to deliver LNG. Second, First Nations are often portrayed as against LNG and other resource development, even though the Tahltan, Haisla and Tsimshian are just three examples of First Nation communities that are currently involved in economic development activities related to natural gas. First Nations communities, like most others, are vitally concerned with having jobs and incomes, and they know that most jobs and income in B.C. (especially outside the metropolitan areas) are resource dependent. They are anxious to retain their citizens within their communities. Should too many young people have to leave to get work, their entire culture is put at risk. Third, environmental and compensation issues do need to be addressed, even though B.C.’s environmental standards are higher than in many countries where natural gas is produced. But the government has already promised to look at compensation for First Nations in areas of resource development. Fourth, there are the myriad of supply and demand factors that must also be considered for success in any economic project. A recently released paper by the Canada West Foun-
dation called Managing Expectations: Assessing the Potential of BC’s Liquid Natural Gas Industry, shows that the potential supply of gas to feed Chinese and Asian markets could easily exceed demand. Further, the cost to produce gas in places like China is lower than in B.C. And there are alternatives to B.C. LNG. China can use pipelines to get LNG from elsewhere in Asia or use other sources of energy. It was wise, therefore, that a recent B.C. government trade mission to sell its LNG in Asia focused on Korea and Japan. However, the province still has an uphill battle on its hands if it is to successfully market its gas resource because the infrastructure needed to produce, liquefy and ship the gas is not yet in place and faces high costs and environmental constraints. There is also intensive competition for LNG customers and many of its rivals for these markets are ahead of it in the race to produce and deliver it. Finally, the increased actual and potential production will put downward pressure on gas prices and, therefore, on the profitability of the sector. Fortunately, The Business Council of British Columbia (BCBC) has just released a white paper on energy policy in BC called Building New Energy Advantages for BC. It deals with multiple energy sources, but makes several recommendations that could improve B.C.’s success in selling LNG. These include but are not limited to: • placing a renewed focus on marketplace competitiveness; • accelerating LNG development with adequate resources, including needed electricity; • positioning B.C. as a global leader in responsible energy development; • building and refining First Nation energy partnerships; • building a robust skills agenda including human resource planning, and • encouraging the domestic use of BC’s natural gas resources. LNG can still be a positive component in the B.C. economy. However, its impact will not be as large might be desired. Following the Canada West Foundation findings, B.C. should consider the development of other resources and other sources of growth and not put all our eggs in the LNG basket. Following the BCBC recommendations will help the government of British Columbia insure that LNG can still be an important, realistic part of a thriving province and not an unattainable LSD type hallucination. Troy Media BC’s Business columnist Roslyn Kunin is a consulting economist and speaker and can be reached at www.rkunin.com.
The whole future of the B.C. economy cannot hinge on LNG alone
:H 63(&,$/,=( ,Q 3URYLGLQJ *HQHUDO 121 '(6758&7,9( 7(67,1* )RU 7KH )ROORZLQJ,QGXVWULHV 3XOS 3DSHU 3LSHOLQHV 2LO *DV 0LQLQJ )HUWLOL]HU PRUH
Making our planet more productive Welding and Cutting Equipment, Gases and Supplies
0HHWLQJ WKH GHPDQGV RI D JURZLQJ IDVW SDFHG LQGXVWU\
Metal fabricators around the world rely on Praxair pure gases and blends and they trust us to supply high quality welding and cutting products and accessories. We can even provide a full-shop analysis to help you increase your productivity and improve your bottom line.
6WULYLQJ WRZDUGV FXVWRPHU VHUYLFH VDIHW\ DQG UHOLDELOLW\
1601 Central Street, Prince George, BC
250-563-3641 or 1-800-225-8247
VW $YH 3ULQFH *HRUJH &RQYHQWLRQDO $GYDQFHG 8OWUDVRQLF LQVSHFWLRQ DQDO\VLV 3URYLGLQJ LQVSHFWLRQ VHUYLFHV JOREDOO\
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A11
Leading standards for natural gas Rich Coleman Minister of Natural Gas Development VICTORIA - With recent events bringing attention to hydraulic fracturing, I think it is important for British Columbians to know the facts about natural gas operations in our province. B.C. has been producing natural gas for more than 50 years. Hydraulic fracturing, the technology used to extract a large portion of our natural gas, has been occurring for decades. Our extensive experience has enabled us to put strict rules in place to govern how the industry conducts its business, ensuring it is rigorously monitored and as safe as possible. We were the first province in Canada to make it mandatory for industry to disclose the fluids used in the hydraulic fracturing process. The online registry - FracFocus.ca provides information about our regulations and an account of each well drilled. Our province’s geology provides us with natural advantages over other areas in North America with the hydraulic fracturing process occurring in B.C. kilometres away from the surface and below impermeable layers of rock and soil. When wells are drilled, they are lined with cement to a depth of 600 metres to protect our soil and water. This provides even more protection for our drinking water. As well, water usage is carefully monitored and protected in British Columbia. The net result of both our strong regulatory framework and our geology is that B.C.’s water supply is protected and safe. It has never been contaminated as a result of hydraulic fracturing. To ensure industry adheres to our rules, we have a dedicated provincial regulator in place. The BC Oil and Gas Commission has expert geologists, hydrologists, and engineers to ensure natural gas work remains safe. And while the experts do their job, we continue to do ours. The provincial government has made sound policy
Rich Coleman
decisions to support responsible natural gas development. World-leading regulations and best practices continue to guide how we operate. Our government supports responsible growth and development because it makes long-term sense. We want industry to grow in an environmentally sensible manner so all British Columbians can benefit directly from natural gas production. We recognize safe exploration as an opportunity to support and grow our economy. Revenue generated enables us to better protect our environment and pay for important services such as health care, education, infrastructure
development and more. The reality is we must strike a realistic balance between the needs of our families and strong communities, and the need to be responsible stewards of our environment. We need to accomplish both to be successful in the long term. And, we are confident we are doing that on many fronts. For instance, to address growing demands from many industries, we are updating legislation with the proposed Water Sustainability Act. This act will ensure the best standards of environmental protection and appropriate oversight is in place for B.C.’s water resources now and in the future. Our approach appears to be working. To reiterate, there has never been an incident of contaminated water supply as a result of hydraulic fracturing in our province. The water used by industry is subject to strict rules. Before any approval can be provided, each permit must go through a rigorous review to eliminate harms and maintain existing water levels. In addition to a vast supply of natural gas and leading standards for exploration, B.C offers industry with many other advantages necessary for large investment, and that is why we have this amazing opportunity to become a world leader in natural gas exports. As the world’s cleanest burning fossil fuel, natural gas is in high demand around the globe, particularly where air quality is a major concern. We see this as an opportunity to redefine our financial security and set a path forward to future prosperity for all British Columbians. We want future generations to benefit financially from the foresight we show today to responsibly grow our natural gas sector. To do that, we have made a commitment to responsibly develop a liquefied natural gas export industry. Our government supports natural gas development because it makes sense today and for generations to come. Natural gas is our best competitive advantage moving forward. Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/ connect
B.C. Safety Authority Licenced Safety Valve Repairs 6]LY @LHYZ VM :LY]PJL
“Celebrating 20 years at our Prince George location, and over 40 years service in the BC Safety Valve Industry�
Authorized Repair Centre for: TuĂ…ine-Xomox Velan Durabla
1415 Santa Fe Avenue Prince George, Bc V2n-5T5 Fax: (250) 561-8768 Phone: (250) 561-8769 Website: Www.Vanvalve.Com E-Mail: Info@Vanvalve.Com
A12
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
Development in a nutshell Status of West Coast Energy Infrastructure Projects at oulined in Douglas Eyford’s report Forging Partnerships, Building Relationships – Aboriginal Canadians and Energy Development,
OIL PROJECTS NORTHERN GATEWAY PIPELINE / ENBRIDGE NORTHERN GATEWAY Enbridge is proposing to construct and operate a 525,000 barrels per day petroleum export pipeline from Edmonton, Alberta to Kitimat, B.C. The proposed project consists of a 1,170 km-long petroleum export pipeline, a condensate import pipeline, and a marine terminal. The project has an anticipated capital cost of $6.5 billion, and is expected to generate 3,000 construction jobs, and provide 1,150 long-term jobs. Aboriginal Interest: The proponent has engaged 70 Aboriginal groups Planned In-Service Date: 2018 TRANS MOUNTAIN PIPELINE EXPANSION / KINDER MORGAN Kinder Morgan is proposing a $5.4 billion expansion of the Trans Mountain Pipeline system that would increase capacity from 300,000 barrels per day (b/d) to 890,000 b/d of crude oil and petroleum products from Alberta to Burnaby, B.C. Approximately 30 per cent of the existing Trans Mountain Pipeline was looped or twinned in 2008. The proposed expansion would twin the remainder of existing pipeline within the existing right-of-way, where possible, and add approximately 981 kms of new pipeline. The project would employ approximately 4,500 people during construction and 100 people once in operation. Aboriginal Interest: 103 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: 2017 KITIMAT CLEAN REFINERY / KITIMAT CLEAN Kitimat Clean has proposed the construction and development of an export-oriented 550,000 barrel per day petroleum refinery, approximately 25 km north of Kitimat, B.C. Refined products would be shipped from a marine terminal located on the Douglas Channel, near Kitimat. The project would require an estimated $18 billion capital investment and, once built, would be the largest petroleum refinery in Canada and western North America. Aboriginal Interest: TBD Planned In-Service Date: TBD
NATURAL GAS PROJECTS PRINCE RUPERT PACIFIC NORTHWEST LNG TERMINAL / PROGRESS ENERGY CANADA / JAPAN PETROLEUM EXPLORATION Progress Energy Canada (a subsidiary of Petronas) and Japan Petroleum Exploration (Japex) are proposing to construct and operate a $9–11 billion natural gas liquefaction project on Lelu Island within the Port of Prince Rupert. The proposed project is anticipated to have an initial two train design of 12 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) with the potential to add a third train for up to 18 MPTA. The project would employ approximately 3,500 people at the peak of construction, and 200-300 people during operations. The proposed Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Pipeline would supply gas to the terminal. Aboriginal Interest: Five potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: Late 2018 PRINCE RUPERT LNG TERMINAL / BG ENERGY GROUP BG Energy Group is proposing to construct and operate an $11–16 billion natural gas liquefaction project on Ridley Island within the Port of Prince Rupert. The proposed project is anticipated to have an initial two train design of 14 MTPA with the potential to add a third train for up to 21 MPTA. The project would provide approximately 9,000 person-years of employment for the construction of trains one and two, and an additional 3,500 personyears for train three. Once all three trains are in place, that facility would provide employment for approximately 250 employees. The proposed West Coast Connector Gas Transmission project would supply gas to the terminal. Aboriginal Interest: Six potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: Early 2020 WEST COAST CONNECTOR GAS TRANSMISSION / SPECTRA AND BG GROUP Spectra Energy and the BG Group are proposing to construct and operate a $6–9 billion
Over 20 Acres of Used Heavy Duty Truck Parts
HEAVY TRUCKS & AUTO
www.prhdtruck.com
CONTINUED ON PAGE A14
COMPLETE REGIONAL WAREHOUSING & DISTRIBUTION SERVICES
“If it comes out of a heavy duty truck, chances are, we have it”
P P&& R R
gas pipeline from northeastern British Columbia to the Prince Rupert LNG facility located in the Port of Prince Rupert (~900 km). The proposed project will consist of either one or two adjacent pipelines of 36” to 48” pipe with a capacity of up to 4.2 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d). The proposed project would employ approximately 3,500 people during peak construction and 200 to 300 over a 30-year project lifespan. Aboriginal Interest: Approximately 20 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: Late 2018 PRINCE RUPERT GAS TRANSMISSION PIPELINE / TRANSCANADA PIPELINES TransCanada Pipelines is proposing to construct and operate a $5 billion natural gas pipeline from northeast of Hudson’s Hope, B.C. to the Pacific Northwest LNG facility in Prince Rupert (~750 km). The proposed project will consist of a 48” pipe with a capacity of up to 3.6 bcf/d. Anticipated employment associated with the pipeline is 4,400–5,500 person years during construction and 30–40 permanent jobs during operations. Aboriginal Interest: 24 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: Late 2018 KITIMAT LNG CANADA TERMINAL / SHELL CANADA AND PARTNERS Shell Canada and its partners (Korea Gas, Mitsubishi and PetroChina) are proposing to construct and operate a $10–15 billion natural gas liquefaction project near Kitimat, B.C. The proposed project is anticipated to have an initial two-train design of 12 MTPA with the potential to add 2 additional trains for up to 24 MPTA. The project would employ approximately 5,500 employees during peak construction and 200-400 employees after full build. The proposed Coastal GasLink Pipeline would supply gas to the terminal. Aboriginal Interest: 9 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: 2019 (for initial design) KITIMAT LNG TERMINAL / CHEVRON AND APACHE Chevron and Apache are proposing to construct and operate a $4.5 billion natural gas liquefaction project near Kitimat, B.C. The proposed project is anticipated to have an initial plant capacity of 5 MTPA with the potential to expand capacity to 10 MPTA or more. The project would employ approximately 700 people during construction and 50 people once in operation. The proposed Pacific Trail Pipelines would supply gas to the terminal. Aboriginal Interest: One potentially-impacted Aboriginal group identified
110,000 sq ft of heated dock height warehouse space. Cargo distribution by rail & truck • Transloading • Warehousing • Trucking
New/Used Truck & Auto Parts Wrecking & Towing • ICBC Scrap-It Yard 15270 Hwy 97 South Prince George, BC V2N 5X7 250-963-3435
INTERIOR WAREHOUSING LTD. 1955 RIVER ROAD, PRINCE GEORGE, B.C. V2L 5S8
250-563-4613 www.interiorwarehousing.com
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A13
First Nations and development Bill Phillips editor@pgfreepress.com Canada should promote a principled dialogue about resource development with Aboriginal communities in Alberta and British Columbia. It sounds great and, in fact, is one of the key recommendations from Douglas Eyford’s report Forging Partnerships, Building Relationships – Aboriginal Canadians and Energy Development, released in early December. Prime Minister Stephen Harper appointed Eyford as Canada’s special federal representative on west coast energy infrastructure to identify approaches that could meet Canada’s goals of expanding energy markets and increasing Aboriginal participation in the economy. His report makes several observations and recommendations, including involving First Nations communities in resource development. For First Nations communities, they’re still waiting for more involvement to happen in a meaningful way. “We’ve known for years that the federal government is not listening to First Nations,” said Carrier Sekani Tribal Chief Terry Teegee. “Harper wants to continue to wage war on First Nations. Unless there is a seismic shift in how the federal government manages its relationship with us, we’re going to see more confrontation that benefits no one.” Eyford met with Carrier Sekani officials while preparing his report. Teegee said the Carrier Sekani appreciate Eyford’s report and his approach, and called for all of the recommendations in the report to be implemented within the next six months. In addition to “promoting a principled dialogue” some of Eyford’s recommendations include: • Where federal jurisdiction is engaged, Canada should collaboratively participate in regional planning with provincial governments, Aboriginal communities, local governments, and other stakeholders to effectively assess cumulative effects and encourage sustainable development. • Canada should establish a joint initiative with Aboriginal groups for environmental stewardship and habitat enhancement to address concerns about cumulative effects of major resource projects. • Canada should coordinate and convene the participation of key stakeholders including Aboriginal groups, governments, industry, non-governmental organizations, and scientists, to advance pipeline and marine safety and strategies to mitigate potential impacts of oil spills on the terrestrial and marine environment.
Grand Chief Ed John
• Canada should sponsor and coordinate regional strategic planning with Aboriginal groups, industry, and local and provincial governments, educational institutions, and training providers, to ensure education, skills, and employment training are coordinated, flexible, and targeted to meet the needs of Aboriginal people and employers in areas impacted by the projects. • Canada should target funding for Aboriginal education, pre-employment skills development, and skills training in a manner that is responsive to the needs and timelines identified in the regional strategic plans, and sufficiently flexible to address chronic barriers to employment. • Canada should collaborate with its partners to enhance access to employment and business counselling services, community supports, and office infrastructure, to support Aboriginal people and to implement regional strategic plans. This includes establishing direct relationships and accountability between regional service providers and neighbouring Aboriginal communities to support their members. • Canada should ensure that federal programs address the need for capital and other financial support for Aboriginal businesses participating in opportunities related to major projects. • Canada should facilitate and support tribal and sectoral associations to achieve defined objectives in areas such as marine and land use planning, capacity building, energy literacy, strategic planning, employment, and business opportunities. • Canada should consider conditions for access to capital where an Aboriginal group or collective brings forward a proposal to obtain an economic interest in a project.
And, he didn’t let First Nations communities off the hook either. He said Aboriginal leaders should engage in community-based strategic planning to: undertake existing community skills and training needs; encourage members to pursue training, education, employment, and business opportunities where they exist; and identify suitable business development and entrepreneurial opportunities. “Our people will be contacting the prime minister and premier to meet with our leaders to discuss the next steps forward,” said Teegee. “We are prepared to listen, and find a way forward so that our environment is protected and our people benefit from projects in our territories. The ‘gold rush’ mentality is back. We’ve seen it before. Responsible development will include First Nations as partners that collaborate to understand the cumulative impacts from these energy proposals. We risk the health and well-being of our future economy and children’s health if we don’t get this right. The Eyford report is a good first step to moving forward. The proof will be in seeing how it is implemented.” Teegee’s sentiment is being echoed throughout many First Nations communities. “It is clear that Mr. Eyford listened to our communities as many, if not all, of his recommendations reflect the public positions and statements of many First Nations standing against Enbridge’s proposed Northern Gateway Pipeline and Kinder Morgan’s proposed expansion of their Trans Mountain pipeline,” said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the Union B.C. Indian Chiefs. “Unfortunately, many of his recommendations will be ignored. The Harper govern-
ment has time and time again demonstrated their jobs agenda trumps, ignores and arrogantly dismissed our constitutionallyenshrined, judicially-recognized inherent title, rights and treaty rights. The Harper government has consistently demonstrated a complete contempt for environmental values and concerns.” First Nations Summit leaders are also encouraged by the recommendations contained in the report. “The recommendations in the report released by Mr. Eyford contain critical recommendations that could open the door to a process of improved engagement between First Nations and the federal and provincial governments,” said Grand Chief Edward John of the First Nations Summit. “However, it is absolutely critical that the foundation of this engagement must be based on the recognition of First Nations Aboriginal Rights and Title within their respective territories.” “Mr. Eyford clearly recognized there are serious deficiencies in the way the federal government engages with First Nations which has resulted in a high level of mistrust. If the federal government takes these issues and this report seriously, it must work to immediately implement the recommendations, otherwise there will continue to be a high level of uncertainty in this province. The ball is now in the prime minister’s court. He needs to meet directly with BC First Nations on an urgent basis to chart a way forward.” John added that it is critical to note that despite the findings in this report, the views of the general public and First Nations regarding the Enbridge Northern Gateway proposal will not change.
Physiotherapy it will move you!
Victoria Sports Physiotherapy is a dynamic and result oriented physiotherapy team with an active approach to wellness. We specialize in sports and work related injuries, back and neck pain, and hand therapy. ICBC, Worksafe BC & Private Claims
Welcome
Interior Workplace Compliance Testing “Keeping Your Workplace Safe” LOCAL: 250.561.PASS (7277)
TOLL FREE: 1.877.764.6829 FAX: 250-561-7297 #203 - 1837 S. Ogilvie Street, Prince George Visit www.iwct-testing.com
plus
DRUG & ALCOHOL TESTING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES
Our Services - 24 hours a day • 7 days a week
• Hair Folicle Drug Testing • Legal DNA Paternity Testing • Criminal Records Checks and Verification Services
• Qualitative Respirator Fit Testing • MD Pre Employment Physicals • RN Pre Employment Physicals • Oral & Breath Alcohol Testing
~ ~ ~ ~
Hand Therapy Exercise Prescriptions Vertigo Working Conditioning Programs
Exclusive Drug & Alcohol & Occupational Testing
Dustin Robin-M.C.P.A. Physiotherapist and Jeremy Smith-M.C.P.A. Physiotherapist
• Oral & Urine Drug Testing • Spirometry Assessment *Lung Assessment
• Audiometer Hearing Test
Collection Locations • Vanderhoof • Quesnel • Williams Lake • Prince Rupert • Terrace • Kelowna • Edmonton In Clinic, All Mobile, On-Site Testing • Professional Service • Competitive Prices All exams are performed by Certified Professionals • Services vary per location
The Science of Healing. The Art of Caring.
walk-in clinic
#108-1669 Victoria Street Prince George 250-564-3820
A14
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
B.C. is on the go FROM PAGE A12 Planned In-Service Date: 2017 DOUGLAS CHANNEL LNG TERMINAL / BC LNG EXPORT CO-OP AND DOUGLAS CHANNEL ENERGY PARTNERSHIP BC LNG Export Co-operative and Douglas Channel Energy Partnership are proposing to construct and operate a $400 million barge-based natural gas liquefaction project near Kitimat, B.C. The project is anticipated to have an initial capacity of 0.9 MTPA of natural gas with a total capacity of 1.8 MTPA. Aboriginal Interest: One potentially-impacted Aboriginal group identified Planned In-Service Date: Unknown COASTAL GASLINK PIPELINE / TRANSCANADA PIPELINES TransCanada Pipelines is proposing to construct and operate a $4 billion pipeline to deliver natural gas from the area west of Dawson Creek, B.C. to the LNG Canada Project in Kitimat, B.C. (~650 km). The project will initially have the capacity to flow approximately 1.7 bcf/d of natural gas and could deliver up to approximately 5.0 bcf/ day. The pipeline would provide 2,000 to 2,500 direct jobs during construction and 15–20 permanent positions once in operation. Aboriginal Interest: 18 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: 2018 PACIFIC TRAIL PIPELINES / APACHE AND CHEVRON Apache and Chevron are proposing to construct and operate a $1.3 billion natural gas pipeline from Summit Lake, B.C. to Kitimat (~470 km). The project will consist of a 42” pipe with a capacity of up to 1.4 bcf/d. Aboriginal Interest: 15 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: 2018
OTHER PROPOSED PROJECTS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA PACIFIC NORTHERN GAS LOOPING PROJECT / PACIFIC NORTHERN GAS Pacific Northern Gas is proposing a $1.3 billion upgrade to its transmission pipeline capacity by looping (twinning) its existing natural gas transmission system between Summit Lake, B.C. and Kitimat, B.C. (~525 km). The pipeline would transport approximately 600 million cubic feet per day (mcf/d), and provide between 1,800 and 2,400 direct person years of work during construction. Aboriginal Interest: 24 potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: Late 2016
WOODFIBRE LNG TERMINAL / WOODFIBRE NATURAL GAS Woodfibre Natural Gas Limited (WNGL) is proposing the development and operation of a LNG production, storage and marine carrier LNG transfer facility located on the previous Woodfibre Pulp and Paper Mill site in Squamish, B.C. The proposed project is anticipated to have a capacity of 2.1 MTPA of LNG. The project would provide approximately 600 person years of direct employment during construction and 2,500 person years of employment during operations. Natural gas will be delivered to the Woodfibre site through the existing and expanded FortisBC pipeline. Planned In-Service Date: 2017 WCC LNG PROJECT / EXXON / MOBIL / IMPERIAL OIL Exxon/Mobil/Imperial Oil are proposing to construct and operate a natural gas liquefaction project in either Kitimat or Prince Rupert, B.C. The project is anticipated to export up to 30 MTPA of LNG. Planned In-Service Date: 2021 TRITON LNG / ALTAGAS AND IDEMITSU KOSAN Triton LNG LP, an equal partnership between Canadian AltaGas Ltd. and Japanese Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., is proposing a Floating Liquefaction Storage and Offloading (FLSO) vessel, with two liquefaction trains and storage capacity. It is anticipated that the FLSO vessel will have an annual production capacity of approximately up to 2.3 MTPA. The project site has not yet been selected, but locations have been identified in the vicinity of Kitimat and Prince Rupert, B.C. Natural gas will be delivered to the site through the existing and expanded Pacific Northern Gas pipeline. Planned In-Service Date: 2017 AURORA LNG / NEXEN ENERGY Nexen Energy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, has entered into an exclusive agreement with the Government of British Columbia to examine the viability of constructing a LNG plant and export terminal at Grassy Point near Prince Rupert, B.C. DISCOVERY LNG / QUICKSILVER RESOURCES CANADA Quicksilver Resources is considering the development of a project involving the construction and operation of natural gas liquefaction, storage and on-loading facilities on the north side of Campbell River, B.C. Planned In-Service Date: 2019 (Phase I) EAGLE MOUNTAIN WOODFIBRE GAS PIPELINE PROJECT / FORTISBC FortisBC is planning a $350 million upgrade to its natural gas pipeline running from Coquitlam to the Woodfibre industrial site near Squamish, B.C. The expansion includes the addition of an approximately 52 km long 20” diameter natural gas pipeline. Anticipated employment during the construction phase is 500–650 person years. Aboriginal Interest: Four potentially-impacted Aboriginal groups identified Planned In-Service Date: Late 2016
1995 Quinn Street, Prince George 250-562-8171 • 1-888-552-5532 16 locations to serve British Columbia
Special Edition: The Northern Report
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
A15
An environment of innovation Ashley MacDonald-Venis Northern Report Spectrum Resource Group is making all the right moves to reduce the ecological footprint created by industries in northern B.C. and Alberta. The firm, which deals with all matter of flora and business from re-vegetating old mining sites to addressing impacts of the mountain pine beetle to combating invasive weeds, started humbly in 1987 with four employees. Now, 27 years later, Spectrum has lent its expertise to firms across Western Canada in sectors ranging from forestry to oil and gas. “We had to diversify to stay competitive and no longer be a seasonal company. We did that by horizontally integrating into other industries and utilizing our existing resources and expertise,” said Duane Maki, CEO of Spectrum Resource Group. Much of the growth the company has experienced is because of Maki’s foresight. He started out coming to B.C. as a tree planter while in university and worked his way up at Spectrum to where he is today. While the company is continuously looking to find new industries to work with, the main vision of the company remains to reduce the environmental effect of industries in the region. “[We want to] specifically create knowledge on how to better utilize herbicides and reduce the amount of herbicides we use,” said Maki. One of the areas that Spectrum is working in is land reclamation in oil, gas and mining sites. Using knowledge that senior researcher Dr. Lisa Wood and the research team have compiled, the company has proven to be successful at returning the sites back to their native species. Another area that is taking advantage of Spectrum’s knowledge are the forests that have been impacted by the mountain pine beetle. “We take standing timber back to productive land,” said Maki.
Spectrum harvests and chips the dead wood, prepares the land to be re-vegetated and plants the area, all over the course of 12 months. One concern Maki and Wood both see as an obstacle for the continued growth of Spectrum is educating the public on the importance behind their work and finding funding resources for continued research. To that end the evolving company introduced an internal research department. “We started the research program to improve our internal operation so that we could have something more to offer our clients, a service that we could provide without charging more [to our clients],” said Wood. “We wanted to create an environment of innovation and creativity where we could pull our employees together and work towards obtaining results in new services.” Spectrum doesn’t only work with big industries, but the company also prides
Bridging Dreams 15 Years Serving BC and Alberta
itself on supporting the community. They support the Prince George Minor Football Association, Prince George Reining Horse
Association, Prince George Jr. Mohawks, Prince George Minor Hockey Association, and Future Cents.
Let us help you eer. fast track your career.
An Industry Training Authority (ITA) Certified Construction Heavy Equipment Training School Forestry Equipment Operator Certification Courses Compliance Courses & Customized Compliance and Safety Programs Forklift, HIAB and Power Chainsaw Courses Funding and Job Placement Programs
Cameron Street Bridge Prince George
9185 Rock Island Road, Prince George, BC V2N 5T4 Office: 250-563-1998 • Toll Free: 1-877-563-1998
www.obrientraining.com 9332 Penn Rd Prince George 250-562-2151
A16
Prince George Free Press - DECEMBER 2013
Special Edition: The Northern Report