In June 2025, The Globe and Mail published an article detailing how Calgary-based oil giant Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. (CNRL) is appealing a $278,000 fine related to the deaths of more than 400 birds, and the endangerment of coyotes and wolves, at its Horizon oil sands site in northern Alberta.

→ Read their paywalled article (accessible to subscribers): Calgary-based oil giant appeals fine over wildlife deaths in tailings pond

The fine was issued by Alberta Energy Regulator, which found that CNRL failed to take reasonable steps to prevent wildlife from coming into contact with toxic tailings—a byproduct of oil sands extraction known to be harmful to both ecosystems and human health.

Why does this matter to CAPE readers?

Because this story isn’t just about environmental mismanagement. It raises questions about regulation, corporate accountability, and the health risks associated with tailings ponds. It’s about the health impacts of oil sands pollution, the risks to nearby communities, and the need for stronger enforcement of environmental protections. When industry cuts corners, it’s not just wildlife that suffers. People do too.

A complicit, captured, and corrupt regulator

CNRL’s actions are not only irresponsible, they highlight a massive yet largely unrecognized threat to migratory birds in North America. The Athabasca tar sands are at the centre of a crucial migratory pathway and protecting the species that fly over the region is a condition of licensing for all oil sands producers. Their actions are a reflection of a sinister pattern of delayed responses, inadequate mitigation, and negligible oversight by the AER. Most bird deaths go undetected and unreported. 

According to 2012 data collected by the Oil Sands Regional Bird Monitoring Program, 40 per cent of birds observed near tailings ponds were seen landing on them⁠—an estimated 30,000 birds per year. 

Why it matters for health

Oil sands tailings ponds don’t just threaten wildlife: they pose serious risks to human health too. They release air pollutants and toxic compounds like Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals that can affect communities nearby, leading to increased rates of cancer, respiratory disease, and other health issues.

Here are the key takeaways:

• Wildlife was not protected.
  CNRL failed to remove a newly formed island in a tailings pond that became a nesting site. Over 400 bird deaths were reported in just a few months.
• The company is appealing the fine.
  CNRL argues there’s no direct proof birds were oiled every day, and says the fine should only apply to the few days that contamination was confirmed.
• This is a health issue too.
  Tailings ponds don’t just harm animals. They release pollutants that are linked to respiratory issues, cancer, and other health impacts, especially for nearby communities.
• Strong enforcement matters.
  This case is a clear example of why we need bold regulations and real accountability to protect people and the planet.

CAPE advocates for stronger regulations to protect both people and ecosystems. This case is a reminder of why enforcement and accountability matter.