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The article presents an interview with Iris Evans, the finance minister of the Canadian province Alberta. When asked what Americans need to think about when they threaten to block crude oil from Alberta's oilsands, Evans says that they should remember that blocking oil from Alberta will not solve the greenhouse gas emissions problem. Evans believes that Alberta is committed to a sustainable economy. She comments on commonly held misconceptions about Alberta.

The article reports on economic developments in the Canadian provinces. Alberta is reaping the benefits of high oil prices, but their good fortune is causing problems in the rest of the country, driving the dollar up and tourism down. The fiscal equalization program, which requires all provinces to spend comparable amounts on social programs is also troubled by Alberta's success. The new Parti Québécois leader André Boisclair is focusing attention on the separatist agenda.

Comments on establishing wealth-creating policies in the Canadian provinces. Indication that Central Canada is focusing on Alberta's growing wealth as oil prices rise; Suggestion that other Canadian provinces start thinking about how they can become more competitive; View that the campaign for Alberta to share its wealth with the rest of the federation through inter-regional transfers will increase separatist talk in Alberta and make Canada unstable.

Focuses on the debate over the future of factory farms in Alberta, Canada. Demands by landowners and municipalities for clear rules on manure disposal; Creation of a central board by the government to approve and monitor hog barns and beef feedlots; Response to the board, including the view that final approval should lie with communities; Drawbacks of the legislation, including its failure to fully address human and animal health.