Alberta's oilsands are releasing potentially hazardous compounds into the atmosphere at rates dozens of times higher than official estimates, newly published research suggests.

Having been heavily involved in swimming her whole life, Nichole Robinson was ready to tackle a 15-kilometre swim across the waters of the Oldman Reservoir to raise awareness about potential selenium contamination caused by open-pit mining practices.

A panel has been formed to provide the Alberta government advice on energy efficiency programs.