EPCOR initiated its formal participation in the CEA Mercury Sampling and Analysis Programme in September 2002 when it sent its implementation plan to Alberta Environment for consideration. A formal Memorandum of Understanding between Alberta Environment and EPCOR was subsequently signed on October 4^th, 2002. EPCOR began sampling and testing on October 1^st, 2002 at its Genesee Generating Station.

Since the program began, a few modifications have been made to the original implementation plan to address the interests and concerns of both parties, and in particular some practical issues that only emerged once sampling and testing had begun. The first quarter of data was submitted to Alberta Environment on March 28^th, 2003. Subsequent to further exchanges of information concerning the methods and inputs for calculating mercury emissions rates, the format of the Quarterly Facility Report has also been altered to its current format.

Of special note, the data presented here is preliminary and has not been peer reviewed by qualified scientists. It is the first step in the Mercury Implementation Program that is expected to continue for some time. As more data is generated and reviewed, we will have a better understanding of the impacts associated with mercury from the coal fired utilities.