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Montana-Canadian power line could spur energy development

In a time when border crossings have become exponentially more difficult, one proposed trip between Montana and Canada would be as easy as, well, the flick of a switch.

Montana-Alberta Tie Inc., a proposed 186-mile power line between Lethbridge and Great Falls, is moving quickly toward reality. Public comment sessions are scheduled this week in Conrad, Great Falls and Cut Bank on the project that is expected to be completed within a year.

That sort of fast-track schedule is the equivalent being waved to the head of the line at customs. Great Falls City Manager John Lawton is eager for construction to begin.

"If this happens, it will open up all kinds of possibilities for Great Falls to continue on the road to being an energy center," he said. "I think it will stimulate all kinds of energy development here that will be very beneficial to our economy."

By GWEN FLORIO
Tribune Capitol Bureau

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051205/NEWS01/512050302/1002

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Power line proposal draws mixed concern

By PETER JOHNSON
Tribune Staff Writer

Reaction was mixed among affected landowners at a Tuesday afternoon meeting about a proposed 186-mile power line between Lethbridge and Great Falls.

Only a few of the 30 people attending in the Great Falls Civic Center were affected landowners. The rest were state and federal officials, potential customers or subcontractors and representatives of the Canadian developer, Montana Alberta Tie Ltd., or MATL.

Harold and Sharon Britton, who live in Cascade but own a ranch on the Marias River near Cut Bank, came to examine maps to see where the power line would cross their property.

"My main concern is how it might affect my operations," he said. He was relieved to see the line would cross a pasture, not his grain fields.

"I think the line would be good for the Montana economy, could give us access to more power, which is a big plus, and encourage renewable wind power generation," Britton said.

Full Story: http://www.greatfallstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051207/BUSINESS/512070327/1046

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