A demonstration against a coal mining project in the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains was front and centre Tuesday as the province’s energy regulator held its final public hearing on the proposal.
About 150 protesters took to the steps of the Alberta Energy Regulator’s (AER) Calgary office, voicing concerns around Northback’s three coal mining proposals in the Crowsnest Pass.
The Save the Eastern Slopes rally coincided with the final day of closing arguments related to the Grassy Mountain coal projects.
“Our water, our lives, our grandchildren, and selenium is not good,” said protester Penny Corradine.
Corradine highlighted her concerns about potential environmental contamination.
Northback spokesperson Rina Blacklaws says the current application is not for an open-pit coal mine.
“This is just a very straightforward drill program that’s going to give us and inform us for our future mine application,” she said.
The Australian-based Northback is seeking three permits: a coal exploration program, a deep drill permit and a temporary licence to divert water on Grassy Mountain.
The company says there is robust demand for seaborne metallurgical coal.
“It’s going to have very minimal impacts (on) the environment. It’s going to pose no risk to public safety,” said Blacklaws.
However, environmental concerns surrounding air and water quality were scrutinized throughout the hearing.
Mandy Olsgard, a former senior toxicologist for the AER, says Northback tried to sway the minds of the AER panel.
“Trying to say these are biased studies because they’re anti-development and using that language around, if you’re scientifically maybe on the other side of the issue, the proponent, the person who wants the coal mine, you’re biased. You’re an advocate,” said Olsgard.
Protesters are demanding the AER reject Northback’s plans and halt all future mining in the Rockies.
“They should send a message to this province saying that we are serious about looking after the people,” said protester James Lee.
“They’re corporatists, this government we have in place right now, the UCP and Danielle Smith, has got to start listening.”
Northback’s proposals have reignited concerns following the provincial government’s recent moves to reopen coal exploration and development and create a new coal policy.
If the drilling permits are approved, Northback would still need to obtain separate approvals to commence commercial mining operations in the area.
