Issue #6 - Summer 2013
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
Canada’s First Nations Energy Publication
PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH
Health in the Health Industry
OUR HOME & NATIVE LAND Energy & First Nations in British Columbia
Women in the Industry Part 5 of 5
RIVER
of TEARS Alberta First Nations Flooded with Hope
Alberta’s
Changing Regulatory Landscape
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elements
Issue #6 - Summer 2013
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
Table of Contents
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MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR International Indigenous Energy Summit
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practice what you preach Health in the Health Industry
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our home and native land British Columbia First Nations and Energy
river of tears Alberta First Nations Flooded with Hope
winds of change
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Trade Winds to Success Apprenticeship Program
alberta’s Regulatory Alberta’s Changing Regulatory Landscape Cheryl Cardinal Director National Energy Business Centre of Excellence Indian Resource Council
women in the industry
Deanna Burgart Contributing Co-Editor
Part 5 of 5 - Q & A Series
Nathan Elliott Contributing Co-Editor
NEBCE Mandate
David Blondeau (Maxpo Communications Inc.) Design and Layout Cover Photo by Harriet Broad-Scalplock Erica Ryder / Joni Mark / Rilee GoodEagle Photos Nathan Elliott / Cheryl Cardinal Floyd Blackhorse / Orest Zwozdesky Deanna Burgart / Keith Matthew Writers
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“Supporting First Nations in their efforts to attain greater management and control of their energy resources.” Elements© is a monthly publication distributed by National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE) and IRC Inc. Any use of content or duplication without written consent is not permitted. For any information, please contact Cheryl Cardinal at cherylc@fnet.ca.
message
from the director Cheryl Cardinal to show how his community as well as Tsuu T’ina Nation and Stoney Nations were affected.
This issue launches the “1st Annual International Indigenous Energy Summit” on January 27-28, 2013. This Summit will take place at the Vancouver Hyatt Regency and will examine how Indigenous people view energy sources. This ground breaking conference will focus on all energy sectors incorporating the “Elements” and the vectors as highlighted in this publication. Sponsorship will be available under the categories of “Earth, Fire, Wind and Water” categories and the workshops will also correspond with the same theme. This will be the first summit of its kind by the Indian Resource Council’s National Energy Business Centre of Excellence. It is the mandate of the National Energy Business Centre of Excellence that we help our people get the information that is most critical to us to make decisions that affect our communities. We are excited to be taking this next step in the Centre’s evolution.
Our health is important. The message of “practice what you preach” is an important corporate message that is delivered from Jacob Pope who heads Aspen Medical Canada. The health issues that we face as First Nations is important to understand to move us forward. The message that we need health as a component to our success is equally important. There are always lots of questions when our partners in the resource and energy sector look to create meaningful relationships with First Nations. One of the key to this is having someone guide you through your path of education. Keith Matthew examines British Columbia First Nations and Energy while highlighting how First Nations work within the BC economy. Our people need assistance in order to participate in the trades. Orest Zwozdesky discusses the many successes that his program of the Trade Winds to Success pre-apprenticeship program. The first step to our people’s success is knowing what resources are out there to assist First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples. This training and personal development can strengthen our positions and further increase our participation in the resource and energy sector. Further leading to this participation is understanding the regulatory changes in the province of Alberta. Oil and gas regulations that fell under the Energy Resources Conservation Board, Alberta Environment and Alberta Sustainable Resource Development are in the process of amalgamating under one regulator – the Alberta Energy Regulator. In her first installment of the regulatory series, Deanna Burgart gives an overview of the regulatory changes in Alberta.
This issue of Elements: a First Nations Energy publication features how the Southern Alberta First Nations were affected by the flood on June 21, 2013. The picture on the front cover, submitted by Harriet Broad-Scalplock, shows her husband hugging their daughter in front of his grandfather’s home. Their family suffered incredible loss and could not get to their home because the once beautiful valley became the river bed for this devastating flood. Floyd Blackhorse is a member from the Siksika Nation in Southern Alberta, one of the Nations that were affected by the flood water, and has written a piece and compiled pictures elements
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The next issue of Elements will focus on “Who Are We?”. I will highlight the different modules offered in our workshops and provide background information to who we are. Thank you for your continued support of Elements: a First Nations Energy publication. Sincerely,
Cheryl Cardinal
Director of the National Energy Business Centre of Excellence 4
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
INDUSTRY | PHOTOGRAPHY | IMAGES | DIGITAL | PROFESSIONAL
Photographer
“...if a care giver is feeling burned out and tired, it is impossible to properly direct patients, compounding problems even further.” by Nathan Elliott
Health in the Health Industry It only makes sense that if you plan to instigate a massive change in the life of a patient – to quit smoking, for example – it really helps if you are not a smoker yourself. This is obvious logic for an outsider. However, to an insider working in a health system that is itself on life support, such irony is sadly the status quo. With this reality in mind, the question for today is this: If you preach health, is it also your duty to practise it? One dynamic company believes that it is. Aspen Medical Canada, Inc. (“Aspen Medical”) has set an internal target to be “the healthiest company in Canada,” complemented by its overall corporate vision to “Transform Canadian Health Outcomes,” with an intense focus on improving the health outcome for Canadians, with special attention to First Nations. A tall order perhaps, but Aspen Medical is already well on its way to changing the culture of health in this country. To accomplish its goal, Aspen Medical has invested extensive time and resources into building an entire team of healthy people. Outcomes have been dramatic, and a far cry from industry horror stories where caregivers often “lack passion and conviction to help patients actually get healthier, because they themselves are fatigued, lethargic and most unhealthy,” says Aspen Medical CEO, Jacob Pope. He continues, “When people embrace a healthy lifestyle, they tend to be more focused, rested and fit. At Aspen, we have embraced the importance of a healthy lifestyle as the foundation for our patient-focused mindset. When you feel healthy, you are more inspirational and connected to those around you.” Aspen Medical has taken a very simple concept and applied it to its care giving model, focused specifically on patient outcomes. Pope points out, “When a patient arrives at an Aspen Medical Pharmacy, Medical or Surgery Centre, we want them to feel as though they are being taken care of. To do this effectively, we must seamlessly direct the patient’s journey through the health system, a journey that up until recently has often been a rocky one. However, if a care giver is feeling burned out and tired, it is impossible to properly direct patients, compounding problems even further.” To address counter these alarming trends, Aspen Medical created its “3H Bonus,” which stands for Health, Hobbies and Holidays. Health: The first priority has been to improve the physical health of each team member through (a) better sleep, (b) better nutrition/hydration, and (c) fitness.
Hobbies: Once a team member’s health begins to substantially improve, the focus then moves to personal hobbies. Hobbies are defined as an activity which takes attention away from stress or problems and moves focus towards interests like playing guitar or painting. Holidays: When both physical and mental health has improved, Aspen Medical has committed to helping team members take holidays that they can plan for, brag about and truly feel grateful for is the final piece. The company has set aside 10% of its profits to be divided among participants to support their connection to a healthier lifestyle.
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
Yet another way Aspen Medical has inspired its team to improve their personal lifestyle is by investing in fitness. To start, the company organized a baseline health test for all participants, and committed to pay for the first two months of training. Almost every employee (who range in age from their mid-20s to mid-60s) jumped on board, and raved about their experience, and even kick-started intense fitness discussions along with bonding in the lunchroom.
Aspen Medical hopes that through the personal health journey of its team members that each of them will be more cognizant of the struggles of others. Further, the company is looking for innovative metrics to correlate productivity improvement to fitness levels. It is clear that Aspen Medical is itself a lifestyle.
Dr. Sylvia Vantomme, an Aspen Medical family physician, is a notable participant in the fitness program, and a success story in the making. For over a decade, Dr. Vantomme suffered from severe, lifethreatening asthma. To monitor her condition, she regularly does a “peak flows” test. Prior to beginning her new regime, her daily peak flows ranged from 290 to a high of 340 L/min, while the norm for her age and height is 420 L/min. Remarkably, after two weeks at the fitness facility, Dr. Vantomme started to have peak flows improving to 380 to 390 L/min. She is now able to decrease her inhaled steroids to half their dosage, and continues to be an avid participant of the fitness program – with no signs of slowing down. She states, “I never would have guessed a fitness program such as this could have such an impact on my own chronic disease in such a dramatic way. I will be a lifelong fitness advocate due to the improvement in my own health.”
“Almost every employee (who range in age from their mid-20s to mid60s) jumped on board, and raved about their experience.”
Improving the health of the Aspen team is one step towards the goal of health and wellness of all Canadians. “Let me be clear,” says Pope, “our approach is about a transformation from the inside out. Truth be told, we believe healthy caregivers will be the catalysts to reversing the disturbing trend of exploding health care costs, accompanied by declining health outcomes. It starts with caregivers practising what they preach.” For more information on Aspen Medical, Healthcare Services, Case Studies and Recruitment, please visit www.aspenmedical.ca
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
“We live on land that is needed to get energy to the markets overseas. Our title and rights protect our land and water and other resources you care to mention. Canada’s constitution protects our title and rights to the lands and waters of BC. That is the highest law in Canada.”
By Keith Matthew
LAND
Our Home &
Much ado is being made right now in BC about pipelines for natural gas and oil that are being proposed for brownfield or greenfield projects.
The oil patch is made up heavyweights that control the destiny of mankind. Exxon made about $34 billion in profit alone a couple years back. For some third world countries that would be the equivalent of their gross domestic product. Mind boggling and staggering come to mind. There are many others in the oil patch with similar heft and prowess in converting oil sands to bitumen and other products. They have cash and want to get their product to markets other than our partner United States of America. A couple years back companies operating in the oil patch announced ambitious plans to double the size and capacity of the output of all the oilsands. That is separate issue in itself…later on that.
This is nothing new for First Nations communities who are used to dealing with major projects but is bewildering when set alongside of proposed power lines, new mining projects, independent power projects, and a myriad of other projects competing for their time on the chief and council table. A little background on the makeup of First Nations is in order to help begin to understand the potpourri of First Nations communities. BC is home to about 203 (give or take a couple) chiefs and councils and is made up of approximately 34 different tribal groups. To put this in perspective there are approximately 630 First Nations chiefs and councils across Canada. Almost one third of Canada’s bands are located in the province.
“The ultimate duty to consult lies with the federal and provincial governments. Especially if it is a major project such as a pipeline that is being considered.”
Each band or chief and council is different. That is the basis for understanding First Nations issues here in this province. They are often shaped by an array of factors including, but limited to, where they are located (urban versus rural) their tribal affiliation, treaty or non-treaty, debt-ridden or wealthy, standards of education, fluent speakers of their indigenous language or non-speakers…on and on.
It is a land locked resource primarily in northern Alberta and Saskatchewan, but mostly in Fort McMurray and the surrounding area. There are pipelines that criss-cross Alberta and most of them head to heavy oil refineries in Texas. For arguments sake, there are two standards of oil being produced. The conventional oil that comes out of the ground from standard oil plays and the oil sands. There are two sets of prices for these products with the oil sands product being priced lower. Reports of a price difference equivalent up to $90 million per day were being reported in the media.
There are other important considerations when a company is trying to make sense of their limited duty to consult. What exactly does that mean? The ultimate duty to consult lies with the federal and provincial governments. Especially if it is a major project such as a pipeline that is being considered. In the case of pipelines, they fall under the auspices of the National Energy Board and consequently need a stamp of approval to proceed (certificate of public convenience). It is much more complex than that and I am trying to simplify things.
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BRITISH COLUMBIA FIRST NATIONS AND ENERGY
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Who really knows if this is true? The cost of running massive world-wide operations and the challenging task of removing oil from sand is enormously expensive. More expensive and costly than drilling and pumping oil from conventional plays. Recent reports saying that America becoming energy selfsufficient in the short-to-medium term are being thrown into this mix as well. Recent discoveries such as the Bakken Oil fields in the Dakotas are key and fracking of natural gas in shale fields has them feeling bullish about supply south of the 49th parallel.
What does this all have to do with First Nations in BC you ask? Good question. We live on land that is needed to get energy to the markets overseas. Our title and rights protect our land and water and other resources you care to mention. Canada’s constitution protects our title and rights to the lands and waters of BC. That is the highest law in Canada. Our history in BC is littered with court cases over land and its uses and a veritable who’s who in Indian Country: Sparrow, Delgamuuk, Guerin, Williams, Haida, Taku River…on and on. We are the most litigious Indians probably ever. All because Governor Douglas ran out of money and couldn’t finish the job of buying BC from us in the form of treaties.
Other events come into play on the world stage that need to be acknowledged. The nuclear disaster in Japan after the tsunami a couple years back has them skittish about building potential world altering power sources on the ring of fire and earthquake zone that the Pacific coastline is for their country. They have an industrial economy based on the production of cars and electronic products. They need a source of energy to produce a consumer world hooked on cars and laptops and smart phones. One potential source is natural gas in the form of liquefied natural gas. Canada has lots of it and wants to get it to this and other Asian markets. Hello China!
Investors tend to shy away from BC because of that. They shouldn’t be afraid to come to BC if they come with the right attitude. Cut business deals with the leadership that are win/ win and good for both the company and the First Nations community. Look for opportunities from the start of the project and don’t get stuck on lowball positions. One of the major pipelines that is proposing a project has done that and is mired in its own muck. They hired Treaty Indians from Alberta to be their front people. That is not a bad thing but it sends the wrong message to the locals.
China has a massive appetite for energy and is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. They have trillions of dollars of investment to buy pretty much whatever they want. In some parts of the world they are the de facto government and provide paved roads, schools and other government services to the countries they are doing business in and around.
Billions of dollars hang in the balance and access to overseas markets are the tantalizing fruits just beyond the energy companies grasp. Indians standing in the way holding on tightly to their legal rights. Sounds like and interesting time here in BC in the next couple years. Indians are quick studies and if they don’t have the expertise they will hire experts to help them understand the issues (hello Ziff Energy). Sounds like fun to me.
India has one of the largest economies in the world and one of the biggest populations. Last year an aging electrical infrastructure staggered their economy when 630 million people lost electricity for two to three days. Industry there cannot work without access to a secure power source. They are looking for ways to supply their own economy with a secure energy source.
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For further information please contact Keith Matthew - 250 318-3787 Or seklep@telus.net
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
RIVER of TEARS Alberta First Nations Flooded with Hope by Floyd Blackhorse
Rescue on Siksika Reserve - Photo by Rilee GoodEagle
On June 20, 2013, a small group of friends and family gathered for a barbeque along the banks of the Bow River in the east end of the city. Their visit was cut short when it began to rain. At the time, no one was aware of the trying times three First Nation communities would face. On June 21, National Aboriginal Day, heavy rainfall was the cause of torrential flooding that displaced and destroyed thousands of livelihoods residing along the Bow River. Photos, important documents, family pets – only some of the treasured items
The powerful force of the river displaced thousands of people within the Siksika Nation, Stoney Nakoda and parts of Tsuu T’ina Nation, forcing evacuations and leaving residents with no choice but to leave with only the clothes on their back. What were once peaceful reserve communities became devastated valleys of destruction and loss. On the Siksika Nation, 250 homes were lost and close to 1000 people evacuated to on-reserve recreation centres. Gifts and intergenerational artifacts were now in the deluge of broken electronics, swamped vehicles and housing wreckage. Efforts to manage shelter for evacuees came mostly from volunteers who took in donations as quickly as they can came in, including baby supplies, bedding, toiletries and clothing. Donation centres and drop off points cropped up across the country with thousands of people giving what they could to help those in need. Hundreds of vehicles travelled from near and far loaded with donations for the community. Most of the needs and areas to drop off donations were communicated via social media – with pages created specifically to share information for both residents of the communities and people that wanted to donate or volunteer. Further, social media coverage of the flood illustrated Mother Nature’s fury, as accounted by @ericaryder, who shared stories of leaky roofs, yellow water, sewage damage to elders homes, among other hardships. Many residents from affected First Nations continue to need assistance in rebuilding their homes and communities. While some camp on hills outside their homes, others are expected to be in trailers for the foreseeable future as redevelopment plans continue.
that were lost and destroyed in a matter of hours when ravaging floods swept through First Nation reserves situated along Alberta’s Bow River. The Bow, flowing eastward in a winding 587 km stretch of river, begins in the Canadian Rockies. Traditionally, many First Nations in the region including the Blackfoot, Nakoda and Tsuu T’ina used the river for buffalo hunts and camps. The overflowing river through Southern Alberta also affected many adjacent towns such as High River, Cochrane and Bragg Creek.
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What transpired after the flooding can only be described as a story of hope. There were so many examples of our people coming together across the miles to support those who need it. The first week after the floods, I was invited to work up north at Big Island Lake Cree Nation Traditional Pow Wow 2013. Travelling into the small, remote community gave me a sense of wonder. The pow wow was National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
traditional, meaning no competition and no pay that usually comes with big pow wows or the sponsorship ads or the festival spirit of urbanized cultural events. The pow wow appeared to be very much run by the community, and involved completion of the arbour circle by youth placing branches on top. We were there to work the concession stand run by Karleen Many Guns, travelling on the pow wow trail during the summer months serving Tim Hortons’ brew to attendees.
We took pride in brewing our coffee, making sure we were hitting the grinds with master skill and legendary service. We tag lined our coffee, “Blackfoot and Strong.” We were a two-man army, manually doing all the labor by foot and hand. Yet, there was a purpose involved in it all. Little did my team partner and I realize we were in effect the ambassadors of our nation. The only ones out there taking on the media role of broadcast to other nations that something big happened on our reserve. The Blackfoot people have endured hard times before; drought, wars, famine, disease. This along with the Treaty Seven tribes of Alberta, we have managed to survive through epic disaster before. We were in essence, my team partner and I, providing hope. Hope to others that the will and strength is unbroken. That even through hardship we were a people who succeeded.
Road washed out in Morley. (Stoney, Nakoda). - Photo by Erica Ryder.
This is a teaching of the buffalo with the saying that follows, “The Buffalo walks head first into the storm.” While devastation occurred back home we went out and pulled in more resources to assist in our recovery. We together, without direction or quest, went to seek aid on our own. That was our purpose. By cycling together our own efforts we travelled up North and brought in much needed support elsewhere to bring back some kind of hope, whether the hope was in the form of protection, humor, perspective or gifts, the retribution was honored.
“The pay was the motivation. We worked hard like men and women equally making friends and providing a service.”
The work and labor involved was hard. The weather was hot. Setting up the poles was frustrating. The tent wrapped so tight it was pulling with full might to get it on the sides. Moving the trailer was fully manual in pulling it through mud, dirt and grass. The waters we needed to keep on refilling cooler jugs were back breaking and exhausting. It was your classic concession stand; you get what you get and no complaints. The pay was the motivation. We worked hard like men and women equally making friends and providing a service. In forging these new friendships, we told stories of what happened on our res. Other than what was reported on the news, neither of us really knew. We were both from the Siksika, but we lived in the city. We both lived clear out of the destruction path of the river so in a sense, we didn’t experience first-hand, personal loss. Even in our own families.
Photo by Joni Mark
The people of Big Island Lake Cree Nation acknowledged us with a Star Blanket dance, and our hardwork raised $1300 in generous aid to support flood relief efforts back home.
“The Blackfoot people have endured hard times before; drought, wars, famine, disease.” Blackfoot & Strong
“Four communities were flooded. We’re from the Siksika Nation. Other reserves were affected too. Donations were coming in” was our pitch. No real personal connection to grief even though we were from there. We were interested in making money. Throughout our time there we heard and told the same story but with each re-telling, something else was told.
Volunteers help stranded families on Siksika Reserve. - Photo by Rilee GoodEagle
I truly believe it was because we focused on ourselves. We focused on business. We focused on the work at hand. We focused on sovereign profit for ourselves. This in effect, created an economy for our people, because we put some issues aside for the benefit of all.
“I have relatives out there.” Members and visitors from Big Island shared in our underlying grief in any way they could. The surface emotions of the experience were un-telling.
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
1 ANNUAL st
Jan 27-28, 2014
Vancouver, British Columbia Hyatt Regency
THE WORLD, THE ELEMENTS &
ENERGY
Brought to you by the
Indian Resource Council National Energy Business Centre of Excellence
The 1st Annual International Indigenous Energy Summit will be a gathering of Nations to discuss how various Indigenous groups view energy globally. This prestigious event will be held on January 27-28, 2014 in Vancouver, BC. Sponsorship is available to companies and individuals who wish to make this event memorable and annual. The concept of the conference will utilize the vectors from this publication in the areas of Earth, Fire, Wind and Water. Sponsorship levels and workshops will correspond with the Elements.
Levels of
SPONSORSHIP We will have four levels of sponsorship for the Summit. Each level will have its own packages and event contributions. Check our next issue of Elements for more information or please contact Cheryl Cardinal at the National Busniess Centre of Excellence 235 - 9911 Chiila Blvd. | Tsuu T’ina Nation, AB. | T2W 6H6 Tel: (403) 252-1702 | Fax:(403) 252-3226 | cherylc@fnet.ca
EARTH
FIRE
WIND
WATER
by Orest Zwozdesky
Trade Winds to Success (TWTS), is a 15-week Aboriginal preapprenticeship program that is designed to increase the number of Aboriginal people in Alberta working in the trades. Training takes place in Calgary and Edmonton, with the head office located in Edmonton. We are pleased to report that we now have a recruitment office in Fort McMurray, for the city and surrounding areas.
The formula we have is working; so far we have completed 44 intakes with a combined number of 685 students having successfully completed training. Many of these students are on target and building careers in the trades. We are also pleased to mention that we have been recognized with awards in both the Calgary and Edmonton offices for our efforts in helping Aboriginal People to pursue careers in the trades.
Roughly every three to four months, another group of boilermakers, carpenters, electricians, insulators, ironworkers, millwrights, plumbers, pipe-fitters, or welders to be, graduate from training in Calgary or Edmonton. All of this is in preparation to become an apprentice and to continue education during technical training. Trade Winds to Success is a Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF), program. This funding is provided by the federal government. The province is also a funder along with three Aboriginal organizations that hold ASETS agreements, partnered with different trades unions and private corporations. It is our intention to continue to uphold the standards we have set over the past 7 plus years in serving the needs of our Aboriginal People, as we strive to improve upon our own best practices and lessons learned.
Photos supplied by www.tradewindstosuccess.ca
The program helps Aboriginal people who are unemployed, underemployed or employment threatened to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to begin a career in the trades and improve their livelihoods. The program is open to First Nations, MÊtis and Inuit people living in Alberta. TWTS helps students make an informed career decision about a trade as well as providing academic upgrading, theory, safety, shop and hand skill training. In addition, mentoring is a key part of the process from in class training to on the job work experience. TWTS staff, our trades’ union partners, their training centers and staff do an excellent job of going above and beyond the call of duty to assist our students to become successful trades’ people.
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This 16 week Aboriginal pre-apprenticeship training program will provide the skills and knowledge to start a career in the following trades: Boilermaker, Carpenter, Electrician, Ironworker, Millwright, Plumber, Steam/Pipe Fitter, or Welder.
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“The program is open to First Nations, Métis and Inuit people living in Alberta. ” Edmonton Office #311, 16120 – 118 Avenue Edmonton, AB T5V 1C6 Phone: 780.471.9100 Fax: 780.471.9177 infoedm@tradewindstosuccess.ca Calgary Office 1070 – 2600 Portland Street SE Calgary, AB T2G 4M6 Phone: 403.205.3500 Fax: 403.205.3506 infocalg@tradewindstosuccess.ca
www.tradewindstosuccess.ca elements
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Changing Regulatory Landscape by Deanna Burgart CET EIT
There are three key entities that have regulated the petroleum industry over the years: The Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB), Alberta Environment (AENV) and Alberta Sustainable Resource Development.
Alberta’s oil and gas regulatory framework has been reputed to be one of the best in the world. It is said that delegates come from many other countries to visit our regulatory establishments and learn how we do things as they work to develop their own means of managing the development of petroleum resources. One of the factors in contributing to this first class system is the fact that these entities have evolved continuously over the past several decades. Our regulatory framework has responded to changing needs, priorities and technologies. Regulations have continued to develop and adapt to meet the needs of new areas in the industry such as Coalbed Methane or Natural Gas from Coal in 2002 to today’s needs in the oil sands, heavy oil and unconventional shale gas developments.
“tower”), and completion data from around the world. In 1971, the O&GCB changed its name to the Energy Resources Conservation Board, or ERCB, and gained regulatory jurisdiction over coal, pipelines and hydro and electric projects. In 1995, the ERCB and the Public Utilities Board merged and formed the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board, or EUB, and then, in 2008, they separated to become the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) and the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) to “reflect the evolution of energy and utility regulation in Alberta”. There are three key entities that have regulated the petroleum industry over the years: The Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB), Alberta Environment (AENV) and Alberta Sustainable Resource Development. The legislation which the ERCB is responsible for is the Coal Conservation Act, the Oil and Gas Conservation Act, the Energy Resources Conservation Act, the Oil Sands Conservation Act and the Pipeline Act. The three main pieces of legislation governed by Alberta Environment are the Water Act, the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, the Climate Change and Emissions Management Act. Finally, Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, which merged with Alberta Environment a few years ago to form AESRD, is responsible for regulating under the Public Lands Act.
The Alberta regulatory framework got its start in 1915 when the first regulatory tribunal in Alberta was formed called the Board of Public Utility Commissioners. In 1932, the government set up the Turner Valley Gas Conservation Board to prevent wastage of natural gas in the area. The first pipeline safety initiatives began in 1937, when the Board of Public Utility Commissioners issued new regulations and in 1938, the provincial government established the Petroleum and Natural Gas Conservation Board. At this time, federal legislation allowed for Alberta to take control of its own energy resource development. The P&NGB became the Oil and Gas Conservation Board in 1957 and in 1962 the
Core Storage centre was opened. This centre, now called the ERCB Core Research Centre, is an 18000 sq. meter building which stores core samples and drill cutting samples as well as drilling information reports called tour sheets (pronounced
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The ERCB is responsible for regulating the safe, responsible and efficient development of Alberta’s energy resources. Energy companies apply to the ERCB for well, pipeline and facility licenses. The ERCB is also responsible for recovery
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scheme approvals including pooling, spacing and commingling. Information collection and dissemination is a valuable function of the ERCB as there is a vast quantity of publicly available data on wells, pipelines, resource pools and facilities. From a compliance standpoint, the ERCB conducts field and corporate audits and enforces the regulations under the framework of Directive 19 which outlines what to do when a noncompliance event is identified and describes the enforcement process and consequences for noncompliance. The directive also enables companies to voluntarily self-disclose non-compliances, providing them with the opportunity to correct the issue and submit a plan for future compliance management. It contains details on the enforcement appeal process. Finally, the ERCB also oversees the abandonment of facilities at the end of their life cycle.
This single regulator will not assume responsibility for mineral tenure or the functions of the Surface Rights Board. For example, land compensation will not fall under the jurisdiction of the AER. Bill 2 clarifies that the AER does not have jurisdiction over regulating Crown consultations with First Nations. The Regulator is “not an agent of the Crown”. Outside of Bill 2, the Alberta government is considering several changes to consultation policy as a result of a recent review and feedback from First Nations and other stakeholders. Some concerns are around the delegation of the “Duty to Consult” from the Crown to industry.
Alberta Environment (AENV) has historically been responsible for issuing authorizations for certain oil and gas and coal activities. For example, under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, sour gas plants must have a specific approval over and above the facility license. These approvals detail additional reporting and sampling requirements and frequencies to monitor and allow companies to mitigate the potential effects on air, land and water around the plant. AENV administers and manages the environmental assessment process, as well as the reclamation and remediation of project sites after they are closed. Under the Water Act, AENV issues water licenses for water use and approvals for disturbances that may affect water. Sustainable Resource Development (SRD) is responsible for approving geophysical activities on public and private land, administering surface land access and rights of way on most public land. SRD ensures reclamation is completed, issues reclamation certificates and audits reclamation and remediation of certified sites on public lands. After a recent review of the regulations by the Regulatory Enhancement Task Force, appointed by the Minister of Energy, a report was issued in December, 2010 titled “Enhancing Assurance: Report and Recommendations of the Regulatory Enhancement Task Force.” This report detailed recommendations for an enhanced regulatory system under one regulator. This resulted in the creation of Bill 2 - the Responsible Energy Development Act, which came into effect on December 10, 2012 and began a phased amalgamation in June 2013. Alberta will move to merge the functions of AESRD and the ERCB under one regulator, with the intent of integrating and reconciling their distinct processes and functions into one. The objective is to achieve greater clarity, efficiency and effectiveness and will take a considerable amount of effort over the next few years. The new Alberta Energy Regulator (AER), would focus on two key functions; policy development and policy assurance and its mandate is,
Moving forward the AER will be working to integrate and streamline its processes. They will be seeking industry, stakeholder, First Nations and Métis feedback on their regulations and directive modifications. Visiting their website regularly and becoming familiar with the information contained within can help all stakeholders understand what is happening in their area. Occasionally, the regulator will also present information sessions that are open to the public. The website can be found at www.aer.ca. There are individuals and organizations that provide courses and workshops, which can be customized for your needs to help you navigate the regulations.
(a) To provide for the efficient, safe, orderly and environmentally responsible development of energy resources in Alberta through the Regulator’s regulatory activities, and (b) In respect of energy resource activities, to regulate: (i) the disposition and management of public lands, (ii) the protection of the environment, and (iii) the conservation and management of water, including the wise allocation and use of water.
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- Issue #6 / Summer 2013
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
Always Keeping Your Guard Up
Introducing Haztech Guardian
We are thrilled to announce the launch of Haztech Guardian, a program redefining medical, safety and security delivery to residential and commercial properties in City of Regina. Since 2006, Haztech has worked hard to become the leader in providing integrated services to the energy, resource, and public sectors across Western Canada.
Building on our continuing success and on our award-winning experience, we have set out in a new business direction, focussed on bringing premium medical, security and safety services straight to your door. Our team of certified, top-caliber professionals has crafted a seamless medical, safety and security program by the likes Regina residents and local business owners have never experienced. Through an exclusive partnership with LS Security (long-established experts in alarm system and alarm monitoring), we now offer a comprehensive package that includes fire, security, medical and safety services, with life and property saving benefits. Whether it is our 24 hour neighborhood and workplace patrols, video surveillance and alarm system monitoring/response led by professional law enforcement officers; our fire and safety assessments, planning and training performed by highly-trained accredited professionals; or our in-home medical assessments and reviews directed by our quality team of doctors and nurses, Haztech Guardian instills confidence in the clients we serve through an increased connection to, and protection of them. To top it all off, this finely-tuned program is delivered at an industry best price – for residential properties it less than one dollar a day!
Call Haztech Guardian now.
306-352-9114 ext 1
For just $29.95 (residence and small business) and $89.95 (large business), you receive the following services:
LS monitored security alarm (if you are currently using another provider this is not a problem as we can easily convert all systems); Daily Guardian patrols from our highly trained personnel; Optional, but complimentary, in-home assessment which includes a full Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) review, a complete fire safety analysis, as well as an in-home health assessment performed by our paramedicine professionals, complete with physician oversight.
We live in a changing world, one with increasing risks. Haztech Guardian ensures that you will never have to let your guard down. We are always close by, looking out for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
WOMEN Industry
in the
by Cheryl Cardinal
Lisa Whitford is a member of the Onion Lake Cree Nation. She enjoys travelling, outdoor activities such as fishing, heading to the mountains and camping. Eventually, she would like to travel abroad and visit indigenous countries and experience new cultures.
Lisa Whitford Director - Onion Lake Energy
5 Part Q & A Series - Part 5 Q: How long have you been working for the company? A: I began my employment with Onion Lake Cree Nation 7 years ago. I joined in November 2006 on a four month contract, where I then went on to become Director of Lands & Resources, and finally to become Director for Onion Lake Energy Ltd. Q: Why did you choose a career in the industry? A: I was employed with the Calgary Flames Hockey Club as their Purchasing Agent. As a single mom, I had to support my son and myself. I came across an advertisement looking for students to attend SAIT’s First Nation Petroleum Land Administration Program in 1996. After 9 months of schooling, I was able to secure a position as a Land Administrator at Amoco Canada. I wanted to eventually work with my First Nation, as they were venturing into the exploration and production of oil and gas at the time. As a band member, I believed this would provide me an opportunity to have my Nation benefit from my experience. During my time in the industry I have had the opportunity to work with Frontier Lands, as well as an array of mineral and surface departments with various oil companies. I wanted to share my working knowledge with Onion Lake Cree Nation. Q: What kind of training is required for your occupation? A: I gained experience working as a Reproduction Clerk with one of the largest well servicing companies in the country, and also worked with a number of departments learning various stages of the petroleum industry. As a member of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Land Administrators (CAPLA), I have engaged in various topics of oil and gas courses which supplemented the various facets of my day-to-day operations. This training included regulations, safety, environment, contracts, and field operations. Q: What qualities do you bring to the job? A: I have found that communication is a key to my Director role where I report to the leadership for the Nation. Attention to detail is paramount, as I am the Nation’s liaison between First Nations-Industry-Indian Oil & Gas Canada. Strong leadership skills are also a major asset, as this skill allows me to build a solid team of employees that will provide the best service to Onion Lake Energy Ltd. Q: What is a typical day like for you? A: I must admit, every day is different. We currently joint venture partners with two oil companies and this relationship varies on a day-to-day basis as further exploration and development on Onion Lake land continues. This position also requires that I wear many hats: from a landlord, to team manager, to public relations to local community events. We sponsor various events within the Nation, as well as activities in the City of Lloydminster. These events help us build stronger relations and awareness of First Nation culture and to what we are doing on Onion Lake. Q: Energy is perceived as a male dominated industry, what has been your experience? A: I was very surprised when I enrolled in the First Nation Land Administration program at SAIT. At the time, there were only two women registered in this course, compared to 25 males. I have had my share of struggles learning field operations, as most of the men had been previously employed in the sector in some capacity. I have had to prove time and time again that this position is not gender related and that anyone who shows commitment can achieve success in the grind of this industry. Q: What are three things you like about your job? A: 1)Networking and meeting others who are working to better their community through building their natural resource base. 2)Building the company into a successful oil and gas venture by focussing on strong leadership and the spirit of partnership. 3)Having a great team makes it all worthwhile to come to work each. Q: What have been some challenges associated with your line of work? A: The biggest challenge is finding qualified personnel, whether they are First Nation, or have knowledge of our heavy oil area. Q: How did you overcome these barriers? A: Currently, we have a partnership with First Nation University of Canada to educate our people in the oil and gas industry. We need to target our students in junior high and extol the virtues of science. A science-based education will allow them to concentrate on becoming mentors to future children to take care of our natural resources. Q: What advice do you have for other women who are interested in pursuing a career in the industry? A: You should be persistent and passionate about your decision to enhance your career opportunities, which will lead to reward and greater successes.
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- Issue #6 / Summer 2013
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National Energy Business Centre of Excellence (NEBCE)
National Energy Business Centre of Excellence 235 - 9911 Chiila Boulevard Tsuu T’ina Nation AB, Canada T2W 6H6 Tel: (403) 252-1702 Fax: (403) 252-3226 E-mail: cherylc@fnet.ca First Nations Website: www.fnresources.com Oil & Gas Website: www.nebce.com
it’s time to strike with us!