Weekly Round Up - 1.3.2012
Did you know…
Thirty-five percent of the world’s oil tanker shipments, or almost 20% of oil traded worldwide travels through the Strait of Hormuz? Located between Oman and Iran, the Strait connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. The United States Energy Information Administration labels it as the "the world's most important oil chokepoint with an oil flow of almost 17 million barrels per day in 2011." Current politics regarding the Strait have sent oil prices higher.Read more…
Oil – $102.52 (Last Week $99.80) Natural Gas - $2.95 (Last Week $3.03)
Oil & Gas
Where analysts see oil prices in 2012
Brent crude will average $105 (U.S.) a barrel next year, not far below this year’s record high average near $111, a Reuters poll found. A quarter of analysts have reduced their forecasts since a similar poll a month ago because of worries about the impact of the euro zone debt crisis on economic growth. Read more…
Alberta drilling rights sales hit record $3.54 billion
The final 2011 auction of Alberta Crown drilling rights brought in $146 million on Wednesday, taking the calendar year total to a record $3.54 billion. Alberta's record earnings from this year's sales of drilling rights will probably remain unbroken in 2012 as buyers attempt to explore and develop their lengthy lists of prospects. Read more…
Drilling activity cresting high on oil prices
The number of drilling rigs active in Western Canada has reached a five-year high on producers chasing after lucrative oil and liquids rich natural gas targets in fairly established plays. Read more…
Saskatchewan's final land sale of 2012 draws just over $20Million
Saskatchewan’s final land sale of 2012 this week produced $20.8 million in bonus bids, bringing the calendar year-end total to $248.8 million, making 2011 the fourth best on record for land sale revenue.
Oil patch pushes for immigration change
Alberta is facing a shortage of 77,000 workers within the next 10 years. The oil sands’ projected growth is a key force behind the deficit, with bitumen production expected to double by 2020 as companies pour billions of dollars into their projects. Read more…
Why U.S. is still king for Canadian oil
For long-term access and competition in a pretty vibrant market, the high priority is to get access to these refineries in the Gulf Coast. China doesn’t have enough of the right refinery capacity to process Canadian heavy oil, while California’s heavy oil refineries hungry for new supplies will likely seek out Canadian barrels, regardless of its anti-oil sands policies. Read more…
$72B in lost revenue at stake in B.C. Northern Gateway pipeline
Oil producers could lose $72 billion over nine years if a pipeline to carry Alberta bitumen to the West Coast isn't built, a new report for the Alberta government says as community hearings for the proposed Enbridge Northern Gateway project are about to begin this month in British Columbia. Read more…
Oil jobs the new gold as thousands join N.D. rush
Williston lies just 1,000 kilometres from Calgary, and an easy day’s drive from Edmonton for the flow of men and machinery that have been dispatched here. Read more and more…
PetroChina takes full control of Alberta oil sands project
Athabasca Oil Sands Corp. has exercised its option to sell its remaining 40-per-cent interest in the MacKay River oil ands project to a unit of Chinese oil giant PetroChina for about $680-million. Read more…
2011 in review: Big year for foreign deals in oilsands
Just when it looked like Imperial Oil Ltd.'s sanctioning last week of an $8.9-billion expansion of its Kearl mine might be the final big oilsands deal of 2011, Osum Oil Sands Corp. announced late Friday it had raised $500 million from a private placement with investors including the Singapore government. Read more…
Natural gas liquids supply increase challenging infrastructure
The propanes, butanes and condensates are used by industry in petrochemical facilities, gas processing and to make bitumen flow smoothly through pipelines. The rising volumes of liquids rich gas will require more natural gas processing facilities. Read more…
Costs rise to $28.5 billion for Imperial Oil's Kearl project
Enhanced tailings pond provisions and new pipeline plans have increased costs at Imperial Oil Ltd.’s Kearl oilsands mine by billions of dollars over the life of the project, the company said Wednesday. Costs per barrel have gone up 24 per cent to $6.20 from a previously publicly released estimate of $5. Read more…
Natural gas storage levels reach record highs
Without a prolonged blast of frigid weather to draw up heating demand, natural gas prices will have little recourse from the scourge of high storage by spring. Read more…
Fracking fears spur review of oilpatch regulations
The Alberta government is pushing ahead with a regulatory overhaul to handle an expected boom in light oil production from resource plays, attributed to the application of advanced oilfield technology. Read more…
Engineering and Construction
Construction gets underway on $3.25 billion potash mine in Saskatchewan
A German fertilizer company has started construction on a $3.25 billion potash mining operation in southern Saskatchewan, which is the first greenfield potash project to be developed in the province in more than forty years. Read more…
Saskatchewan mining industry projected to benefit from more than $50 billion of capital investment over the next 20 years
Canada's mining industry has the potential to make almost $140 billion of capital investment in Canada over the next five years and it's anticipated Saskatchewan will benefit from more than $50 billion of capital investment over the next two decades. Mining is a $7.1 billion industry in Saskatchewan and the province benefited from $3.1 billion in capital expenditures in 2010, the largest recipient of mining investment in Canada last year. Read more…
Canada's housing starts slow in November
New home building across Canada dropped by a sharp 13 per cent in November as the volatile sector that represents condos and apartments showed declines, but there was still no sign the red-hot Canadian housing market is poised for a tumble, analysts said. Read more…
Saskatchewan building permits rise, British Columbia permits plummet
Total permit values in British Columbia on a seasonally adjusted basis in October 2011 were $703 million, down 39.9 per cent from October 2010. Saskatchewan's building permits were up 22.4 per cent from October 2010 to October 2011. Read more…
New initiative intended to increase immigration
The federal government is launching a new initiative to increase the number of construction workers emigrating to Canada, while reducing the backlog for those obtaining permanent residency under the federal skilled worker program. Read more…
Construction associations support replacing Building Canada plan
Infrastructure Canada announced the launch of a formal engagement process that will bring together the Government of Canada, provinces, territories, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and others to develop a new long-term plan for public infrastructure, beyond the expiry of the Building Canada plan. Read more…
Bank of Canada warns condo boom could be ending
In its December economic review, the central bank said that "certain areas" of the housing market could see prices fall as the economy weakens. Read more…
Canadian Pacific expanding ability to move oil from Saskatchewan
Shipping out of an oil loading facility that CPR will build in Estevan in southeastern Saskatchewan is part of a trend that is seeing more crude moving by rail as a flexible alternative given delays in adding new pipeline capacity. Read more…
Economics
With highest levels of economic freedom in North America, Albertans enjoy higher standards of living while Ontario and Quebec lag behind
This year’s report found that on average, levels of economic freedom have slightly increased among Canadian provinces while declining in many U.S. states. After Alberta, Saskatchewan was the second highest-ranked Canadian province, but just 32nd overall, with Newfoundland & Labrador third among provinces and 37th overall. Read more…
A stronger U.S. economy should underpin Canada’s growth in 2012
However, despite the persisting significant risk of a meltdown in Europe, economic activity in the United States, the market for almost 20% of Canada’s total output appears to be gaining momentum. This is reflected by a gradual strengthening of consumer spending and a moderate improvement in housing demand driven to a significant degree by a stronger pattern of private sector employment growth. Also, business investment has benefitted from very stimulative monetary policy and a solid 14.6% increase in after tax profits. Read more…
Odds of another financial crisis on the rise: Bank of Canada
The Bank of Canada is warning that the strength of the global financial system has “deteriorated significantly” since the summer because of the worsening European debt crisis and weaker world-wide economic outlook. Read more…


Synergies made possible by our processes, policies, technologies and wide range of expertise. Clients that hire more than one of our divisions receive the benefit of increased efficiency and reduced time and cost.
Exceptional skills, experience and vision. Focus’ leadership team works together to ensure Focus Corporation remains an industry-leader with an excellent reputation for client service, innovative thinking and high quality projects.
Innovative and effective solutions that encompass and support our economic, social and environmental sustainability values. Focus is taking steps towards a systematic, company-wide approach to sustainable and responsible business practices
Support for the communities where our employees live, work and play. Focus donates employee time and expertise, as well as financial support, to numerous non-profit organizations across Western Canada.
Protection of life, health and the environment. Safety is more than just a workplace concern: it is a lifestyle responsibility. Our safety program gives all employees the resources necessary to be safe at work, at home and in their communities.
A long, prosperous and exciting history. Focus has evolved with the involvement of talented and ambitious people, strategic acquisition of key businesses and forward-looking additions of innovative technology.
An exceptional and safe workplace for our employees. We’re proud that our workplace, safety programs, training courses and management efforts have been singled out for praise.
Great client service, innovative thinking and high quality results. Regardless of the project type, size, scope or challenge, our projects reflect Focus’ vision of success.
One of the biggest and most established survey companies in Western Canada for a reason. We provide real economic value, while ensuring your projects run smoothly and efficiently.
Innovative solutions that optimize existing transportation infrastructure and accommodate for current and future growth. We are industry leaders in the planning, engineering and construction management of major transportation facilities.
Having surveyed pipeline right-of-way projects in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, we know what’s needed to get the job done right.
A wide range of services for the land development and municipal sector. Our strong technical skills, innovative ideas and first-rate project management practices increase the value of land development and municipal projects of all sizes.
Fast and accurate precise measurement services. Specialists leverage the latest 3D laser scanning technology to collect large amounts of data quickly and accurately – even in locations that are too dangerous or impossible to survey conventionally.
A world-leader in 3D mapping, planning and virtual surveys. Focus uses a combination of data, maps and imagery to create a comprehensive, complete and current image of your project area, which we can use to map your infrastructure, plan new developments and survey remotely.
An integrated approach to better air quality. Focus measures and monitors air quality and provides engineering solutions to improve it. Air quality experts leverage their understanding of new technologies, regulatory trends and scientific knowledge to identify and solve problems.
Our asset management services are tailored to municipalities needing development of asset management systems and/or development of Geographic Information System (GIS) services to populate or complement their asset registry.
A multi-disciplinary approach to cost-effective integrated infrastructure solutions. Specialists in stormwater management planning and water resources engineering deliver effective water and wastewater treatment systems for municipal and private sectors.
Transportation construction specialists. Talented and experienced construction managers, construction supervisors, construction inspectors and surveyors work together to ensure transportation projects are completed within budget and on schedule.
Surveying for every stage of a major construction project. Specialists provide industrial construction surveying services to the oil sands industry and construction surveying services for commercial and industrial developments.
Innovative and cost effective facilities for an unlimited array of gas compositions. Focus’ experts have extensive experience in all areas of natural gas compression, including field compression, inlet compression, sales gas and pipeline transmission compressor stations.
A leader in deep cut facility design and troubleshooting, sour gas processing, sulphur recovery and natural gas liquids recovery and fractionation.
Map-based information for remote site assessment decisions. Focus reduces risk and saves time by leveraging satellite imagery and other remote sensing technologies to help oil and gas producers and pipeline companies remotely plan their development projects.
Outstanding visual presentation and communication materials. Focus provides professional and effective presentation, print and multi-media material that delivers messages effectively and enhances clients’ business image.
Survey services to support every stage of large- and small-scale heavy oil and oil sands exploration and development.
Sustainable developments that respect the natural environment, enhance land value and improve the quality of life where people live, work and play. Focus experts manage land development projects from re-zoning and planning stages through to construction completion.
Innovative solutions for vibrant, livable communities. Focus provides an integrated suite of services to guide and support a seamless land use planning process from vision through to completion.
Creative, inspiring and innovative environments. Focus’ landscape architects create functional and aesthetically pleasing landscapes for residential, municipal and commercial projects.
Fully automated engineered packages. Our comprehensive services ensure your projects get the most appropriate type of system, including automation and control products and control methods that monitor the system and measure fluids throughout the extraction, processing and delivery process.
A wide range of land surveying and geomatics services. Focus’ professional surveyors provide the accurate spatial data, boundary definitions and geo-referenced information needed for land development and infrastructure projects.
A leading provider of oil and gas surveying services in Western Canada. With full service offices, numerous field crews, a large staff and a totally digital product model, we have the resources to provide consistent, efficient service from field survey to final plan.
Innovative SAGD solutions. Multi-disciplinary teams with expertise in the pilot and commercial application of SAGD technology provide trouble shooting, process studies, and full EPCM services for projects of all sizes.
Fast and accurate pipeline design and surveying. Trained professionals use custom tools and technological innovation to ensure the best possible quality and most efficient project management.
Design, operation and maintenance of power generation and distribution facilities. Our experts work with oil and gas and small independent power producers on power generation and power distribution facilities of all sizes.
Focus' team of Resource Road experts offers innovative solutions to companies in the oil and gas sector, by optimizing their existing transportation infrastructure and accommodating for future growth.
Grading and drainage design can reduce cut/fill quantities, often saving you from importing costly material, exporting unnecessary material or stockpiling excess material during construction.
Innovative solutions that optimize existing transportation infrastructure and accommodate current and future growth.
In-depth knowledge that only comes from first-hand experience with challenging complex transportation projects, Focus’ experts provide a wide range of services to identify and solve transportation problems.
Efficient and effective transportation structures that achieve maximum life cycle value. Focus’ team of experts is experienced in the design and construction of new structures and the evaluation and rehabilitation of existing highway bridge structures.
Complete water treatment design services for municipal and commercial applications. Focus’ experts manage water and wastewater treatment projects from the planning stages through design to construction completion.
Innovative design solutions for municipal water systems and stormwater treatment and control.
Canada’s 5th largest city is a vibrant, exciting place with multiple charms, including a cosmopolitan lifestyle, countless outdoor adventures, a dynamic arts scene and more!
This small town offers big-time benefits, including highly ranked schools, many world-class fitness amenities, easy access to Edmonton and a warm community spirit.
With its scenic mountain views and numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures that support an active healthy lifestyle, it’s no surprise that Cranbrook is the largest community in the Kootenay Rockies – and growing.
This thriving mid-size city offers exceptional lifestyle benefits, including safe and clean neighbourhoods, low average house prices and low taxes. Add its many cultural and recreational activities to the equation and you know why Edmonton’s population continues to grow.
While the thriving oil sands, natural gas and pipeline industry attracts many new workers and their families to Fort McMurray, the natural beauty, welcoming community and vibrant economy encourage them to stay.
Located in beautiful Peace River country, Fort St. John is a welcoming community that is populated with many young families. Its excellent year-round sports facilities and rugged outdoor adventures offer something for everyone from young children to avid sportsmen.
Golden’s reputation as a stunningly beautiful, incredibly active, totally welcoming community is gaining strength. And, with the strong community spirit of its residents, we’re sure to see more big things happening here.
This progressive city, located northwest of Edmonton, offers its 50,000 residents an assortment of recreational amenities, a convenient public transit system, a residential and commercial recycling program, arts and culture events, and a strong community service network.
Surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty and scenic views, Invermere’s welcoming community offers something for everyone. Enjoy swimming in one of the warmest lakes in the valley, skiing at your choice of ski hill, golfing one of many courses or relaxing at the hot springs.
Economy, amenities, weather and lifestyle – all in one scenic, friendly and affordable town. Kamloops’ strong community spirit reflects the quality of life residents enjoy.
Kelowna’s natural beauty, lively cultural community and assortment of recreational opportunities are sure to please enthusiasts of all ages.
Kitimat is a family-oriented community located in northwestern British Columbia.
The largest city in Southern Alberta, Lethbridge is located Southeast of Calgary on the Oldman River.
Medicine Hat residents revel in its small-town atmosphere, its sense of safety and security, their friendly neighbours and the conveniences that it offers.
This small town enjoys some big city amenities, including public transit, a busy municipal airport, public and separate board elementary schools, postsecondary education, comprehensive parks and recreation facilities and convenient access to healthcare.
Prince George is the largest city in northern British Columbia and is known as “BC’s Northern Capital.” The City of Prince George is a vibrant, active and diverse community that provides a thriving economy.
Regina’s affordability enables residents to enjoy the finer things in life, and they do! With its beautiful parkland, a nationally renowned arts community, a family-friendly attitude and, of course, professional football, Reginans enjoy a high quality of life.
This sophisticated town, with just over 3,000 people, is one of Canada’s highest cities, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that it is known for mountain biking, skiing and hiking. While recreation is a passion for most within this community, so is sustainability and environmentalism.
Truro offers residents a full range of goods, services and recreational opportunities, as well as easy access to the many pleasures of Nova Scotia.
Canada’s third largest city is consistently ranked one of the world’s most livable cities for good reason: Vancouver is clean, safe and beautiful and it offers residents an assortment of active, intellectual and spiritual pursuits.
In addition to the great outdoor activity available, Vanderhoof also has many popular Community Events, including the Parade of Lights and Midnight Madness.
Recently named the second best place to live in Canada, Victoria offers climate, community, culture and history– and prospects for an exciting future.
The key to our success. We develop and nurture our reputation as ‘a great place to work’ and we look for skilled people to join our team.
At Focus, we recognize that our people are the key to our success.
Benefits and resources that keep our employees healthy, happy and moving ahead! We empower people with options, resources and incentives to help them enjoy success.
Good stewardship in the protection of life, health and the environment. Focus encourages environmental awareness and accountability by supporting an assortment of environmental efforts across the company.
Numerous benefits that enrich employees’ lives and make Focus a great place to work. Focus’ safety program, employee recognition and appreciation efforts, social activities and community support opportunities reflect our company’s culture of respect, appreciation and support.
Amazing jobs for talented and enthusiastic professionals. See some of the types of jobs available and a brief description of the duties they include.
Interactive and comfortable work environments in some of the most beautiful, culturally rich and recreationally active places in Canada.
Programs that support employees’ continued growth. Focus encourages employees to develop their knowledge and capabilities, and supports them in their efforts to do so.
Outstanding learning and development opportunities.Focus develops and provides numerous opportunities for employee empowerment, motivation and engagement.
Significant awards, new services, key hires, and company announcements. Focus wants to keep clients, shareholders, potential employees and interested viewers up-to-date with current happenings within the company.
Industry news, trends and stories that have a direct impact on business in Western Canada. Join our mailing list today to get weekly updates on what is happening within your industry.
Learn more about our service solutions and working for Focus.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter
Logo download, colour definitions and acceptable uses. The Focus logo, in a variety of formats, is available for download here.