Canadians say they won't mine Flathead

The province of British Columbia will apparently enact a moratorium on mineral and coal extraction in the Canadian Flathead.

The announcement came late as the Hungry Horse News went to press. British Columbia Lt. Gov. Steven L. Point made a pledge to not permit mining, oil and gas development and coalbed gas extraction in British Columbia's Flathead in front of parliament Tuesday.

Point said the province would also "identify permissible land uses and establish new collaborative approaches to trans-boundary issues," according to the Vancouver Sun.

Sens. Jon Tester and Max Baucus, praised the announcement.

"The resources of the North Fork of the Flathead River are unmatched. Canadians and Americans are forever linked in our efforts to preserve this treasure for the future generations, both north and south of the border. Together, we live, work, and prosper because of the resources in this valley, and your actions are a step forward in ensuring the long-term sustainability of this ecosystem.

"We look forward to meeting with you as soon as possible to solidify the details of this policy."