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A new study finds that fish in the Crowsnest Lake are being poisoned by old coal mines in the region. (Photo: Tupungato | Dreamstime.com)

Chemicals from old coal mines in Crowsnest Pass ‘poisoning’ fish

Jun 6, 2025 | 12:16 PM

A new study by Alberta government scientists says old coal mines in the Rockies are leaching chemicals that are poisoning fish downstream.

It says any new mining on mountains owned by coal companies could lead to the “population collapse” of species in Crowsnest Lake.

The study has led the province to issue an advisory asking people to limit their consumption of fish from that lake due to high levels of selenium found in three species.

Alberta’s energy regulator says companies that own the old coal mines are complying with regulations.

The regulator is waiting on one company to submit a selenium management plan, which is due by March.

The Alberta government says its scientists aren’t available to speak with reporters because they “are not trained spokespeople.”

Coal mining on the eastern slopes of the Alberta Rockies recently has been a hot-button issue as the province has faced backlash from both industry and the public over policy changes.

(The Canadian Press)

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