Dear Editor,
I’d like to inform the Priddis community, particularly residents living near the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory, that the University of Calgary has decided not to proceed with a proposed carbon capture and storage (CCS) monitoring research project on university-owned land at the observatory site.
We engaged in consultation and discussion with many stakeholders in the area, including members of the Cross family, which donated the land to the university back in 1972. Much of the feedback we received was that the proposed research involves a footprint that is considered to be inconsistent with the goals of the original donation of the land to the university. The proximity of the site to the Cross Conservancy land and residents’ concerns about possible impact on the wildlife corridor and ecological habitat were also important factors in the decision.
We respect these sentiments. So in the best interests of the community and the university, we have decided to look elsewhere for a site to pursue this important research and education initiative.
I would like to stress that we believe there are no technical or environmental risks associated with this project. The University of Calgary is still committed to undertaking this work because it will provide crucial information and will identify best practices that will assist in the safe implementation of large-scale CCS projects in this province. CCS is a key technology needed to reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere in order to not only preserve our natural environment but also to sustain the economic health and well-being of the province.
I would like to thank all members of the community for taking the time to share their views and ask important questions about the project. I know the University of Calgary and the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory can continue to count on their support as a valued neighbour and community partner.
Don C. Lawton, Ph.D., P.Geoph
Professor of Geophysics
University of Calgary
