From the Tuesday, January 15, 2008 online edition of the Flathead Beacon . . .

Canadian regulators say potential coal and gas projects north of Glacier National Park face many hurdles, including regulatory review.

Montana officials have criticized potential development of a coal mine and a coal-bed methane operation in southeastern British Columbia. On Tuesday, the Montana Legislature’s Environmental Quality Council invited Canadian officials to provide their perspective at a meeting in Helena.

British Columbia officials reiterated the projects have not begun clearing regulatory hurdles. Garry Alexander of the province’s Environmental Assessment Office said the government will conduct a “comprehensive” evaluation.

Other Canadian regulators, speaking by conference call, said Montana agencies and residents will have an opportunity to comment on plans as they move forward. Proposed projects often are modified during the permit process, the regulators said.

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