BSE research - another fascinating topic. Well, to me and a handful of patient scientists who tolerate my amateur questions. There are two atypical strains of BSE which appear different from one another and from the classical form of BSE. It was previously believed the classic strain was most easily transmitted. New research is just evolving now which may disprove that theory.

Nekaneet First Nation. This is a long and complicated story, but it appears as though the Nekaneet people are missing a sizeable chunk of their collective funds. I'm trying to find out if this is accurate and if so, where the money went. Longer-term needs of all First Nations in this country of how to avoid such a scenario from happening again. Canadian taxpayers, I'm sure, would be equally supportive of such a mandate.
Nekaneet's housing crisis
Following the money trail at Nekaneet First Nation

Old Man On His Back wreck is still ongoing. At this point, I am waiting to find out what the SPCA has determined through their official investigation and whether they will recommend charges be laid against the Nature Conservancy of Canada in relation to an incident where over 40 cattle died at a nature preserve in southwest Saskatchewan.
Lightning data revealed
Former employees speak out

Walmart - is there a negative effect on small town business when big boxes move in? This has also been an ongoing project, but one I have not had the time to pursue as fully as I'd like to. A town three hours away has recently built their first Walmart and it's a perfect set-up to talk to local residents and business now and in time to really gauge any impact. Meanwhile, our town is in the process of redefining its development bylaws and I suspect they will be adopted in part, to keep big boxes out.
I also suspect several op-ed pieces may have contributed to the town's lust for a multi-national chastity belt.

The oil and natural gas sector realized a huge increase in activity and investment in this area in 2008 (before the recession) and is expected to do the same in 2009. Just started, a project looking at each kind of project, including pipeline construction, and the economic benefits weighed against concerns of landowners and the effect on the environment.

I'm working on tracking the prices of cattle sold at independent and chain-owned auction marts. Exciting, I know, but I've got a theory and need to see if it's right.

As always, tips and suggestions are appreciated! Email or contact me by phone at 306-662-4121. If your identity needs to be anonymous, I will honour that request. Several important stories were initiated by off-the-record conversations. Sources are always protected, with exception of a court subpoena.