Coal mines can be environmentally safe and can become useful, enjoyable landscapes when the seam runs out, say scientists working with industry. But they admit that there are risks and costs, and urge communities and miners to work together from the start to understand and minimize them. “There’s a lot of mitigative measures you can…

EDMONTON—Alberta is immediately halting exploration in the Rocky Mountains while it continues to consult the public about coal mines. A panel struck to carry out consultations says it is responding to concerns raised by Albertans, including those who participated in an online survey. The province says almost 25,000 Albertans participated in the survey between March…