The Alberta government's pilot program aimed at providing energy companies with partial recognition for incomplete well site cleanups has faced significant backlash from landowners. The initiative, introduced by the United Conservative Party, sought to certify reclamation for portions of oil and gas sites that meet environmental standards, even if the sites remain partially operational or uncleaned. Daryl Bennett from the Alberta Surface Rights Federation voiced strong opposition, highlighting concerns that the program would reduce the environmental liability for oil and gas companies while placing the burden on landowners. With no companies applying for the program's limited spots, landowners have been advised to withhold permission, fearing that this could lead to reduced compensation and ongoing environmental risks. Rural municipalities have echoed these concerns, arguing that the province's actions favor the energy industry at the expense of local communities, raising alarms about potential liabilities being shifted onto landowners.
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