The Grassy Mountain coal mining project proposed by Northback Holdings in Alberta has sparked controversy, with supporters touting economic benefits while opponents fear damage to the Oldman watershed. The company insists that modern techniques can effectively manage harmful substances like selenium, but some locals remain skeptical. Corb Lund, a musician and rancher, is among those concerned about the potential environmental impacts of open pit mining on the Oldman River. Meanwhile, Laura Laing and John Smith, owners of Plateau Cattle Company, have been fighting against coal mining in the region for years, emphasizing the importance of preserving water, vegetation, and other resources in the Eastern Slopes of the Rockies.
Lund and others argue that the promises made by coal companies are false and that open pit mining would inevitably lead to pollution and contamination in the area. Laing echoes these concerns, stating that while there is a history of coal mining in Alberta, it should not be part of the region’s future. She emphasizes the need to protect the Eastern Slopes and the resources they provide, including water, vegetation, tourism, and recreation. Both sides are gearing up for a crucial vote in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, with Northback Holdings emphasizing the importance of community input while opponents demand a province-wide vote to safeguard Alberta’s water resources.
Northback Holdings maintains that it values the opinions of all Albertans, particularly those living within the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass who will vote on the project. The company emphasizes its commitment to community engagement and believes that local residents should have a say in the decision-making process. On the other hand, Laing and Smith argue that the issue of coal mining in the region extends beyond Crowsnest Pass and that all Albertans should have a voice in the matter. They stress that water is a critical resource that must be protected for the benefit of all residents downstream who rely on it for various uses.
The upcoming public hearings on the Grassy Mountain coal mining project will provide a platform for further discussion and debate. The first hearing is scheduled to take place in Blairmore, followed by the crucial vote in Crowsnest Pass. The outcome of these events will shape the future of coal mining in the region and have far-reaching implications for the environment and local communities. As the debate continues to unfold, stakeholders on both sides remain passionate about their respective positions, highlighting the need for a balanced and informed decision-making process to address the complex issues at hand. Ultimately, the fate of the Grassy Mountain project will hinge on how well these competing interests can be reconciled to ensure the long-term sustainability and well-being of the region.
