Yeah, the oil sands industry is wreaking havoc on the environment, I have a few family members that work there and its pretty sad to hear about the environmental devestation. I think that most Canadians aren't aware of just how poor our track record is on the environment.
Here's an article to give you some background Slimp:
Energy potential of Alberta's oil sands places Canada in a ecological dilemma | Environment | The Guardian
Fort McMurray is the place to be if you want to make some amazing cash, of course you have to be able to find a place to live when you're there. I have a cousin who just came back, he's a cabinet maker and was making almost $1000 a day. So many high paying jobs out there, just have to find ways of avoiding the high cost of living.