The next step on our Compassionate Earth Walk begins in Hardisty, where the Keystone XL Pipeline would begin. This “tank farm” is an industrial complex and hub for the oil industry in Alberta, sometimes referred to as “the Texas” of Canada. As we walked through this area, we had at least five Crown police patrol cars staked out on hilltops and intersections, watching us like hawks. They told us it was for our protection, but clearly they were assigned to prevent any acts of “eco-terrorism” a term used by Canada’s current conservative government for those who are standing up for the rights of the land, the waters and all life.

Shodo walking past the “tank farm.”