As separatist discontent bubbles up anew in Alberta, experts say a vote to sever ties with Canada would pitch the country into unexplored territory on everything from money to First Nations and national parks.

The premier of Alberta says she will hold a referendum next year on the energy rich province separating from Canada if citizens gather the required number of signatures on a petition.

Smith has launched an ‘Alberta Next’ initiative to push back against federal policies seen as hostile to the province’s energy industry.