The other day, I blogged about an issue with Canada and United States regarding a coal-bed methane project in British Columbia, near the U.S. border. U.S. Senator Max Baucus made an announcement that he had “crushed” the project and he “declared victory.” People cheered and lauded Baucus for his power that seemed to extend into a foreign country.

I also wrote about the fact that Baucus had declared another such a victory a few years ago when he announced that he had reopened Malmstrom AFB’s runway. He made this announcement before it was actually a done deal and the bill had actually passed Congress. He had to pull the language. With this fumble, he may have cost Malmstrom another mission, not to mention several hundred jobs.

Today in the Missoulian, it appears they also believe Baucus proclaimed victory a little early regarding the Canadian coal-bed methane project. The Missoulian reported these interesting facts about the coal-bed methane project:

That runs directly counter to an announcement made last week by Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont.

And, the Missoulian also reports about the project:

Now, it appears not final at all, and the company’s plans may not even be affected much by the recent decision.

Also, the Missoulian reported that, “Baucus is not happy.” I wonder if he’s not happy that the project may still be going forward or unhappy about fumbling the ball again.

Max’s spokesman said:

But if it’s true that BP isn’t really halting plans to develop the Canadian Flathead, then they just lied to two U.S. senators, one of whom chairs the most powerful committee in Congress.

Breaking News Alert: Max’s self-proclaimed “power” is not recognized in Canada. Amazing!!

It appears what Energy Minister Richard Neufeld said in a recent article rings true and is something many Montanans don’t understand, especially the Montana media:

When asked last week about Mr. Baucus’s characterization of the project, Mr. Neufeld said: “If Max Baucus says the sun is shining, the first thing you do is go out and have a look.”

Today, it appears the Missoulian went outside to have a look.