First Nations in northern Alberta say oil development is polluting the water, cutting into forests and increasing emissions of harmful chemicals.

The drilling takes place in an area that is home to several tribes. One elder said the waters have become so polluted that no one can fish or drink from the Athabasca River.

Jim Boucher, the chief of the Fort MacKay First Nations Council, said the environment has been hit hard by development. But he said mining has created jobs and other economic ventures for Native people.

Oil companies have invested nearly $100 billion in mines and processing plants. They say they are working to address environmental concerns.

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Canada Pays Environmentally for U.S. Oil Thirst (The Washington Post 5/31)
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