Northback overhauling Grassy Mountain Coal Plan

Northback is overhauling its proposed Grassy Mountain coal project after the original plan was rejected in 2021, aiming to address environmental concerns and gain community support.

At an open house held September 12 at the Crowsnest Community Hall, Northback’s Manager of Communications, Rina Blacklaws, told residents the new application would be “drastically different” from the previous submission.

“We’re completely changing the application,” Blacklaws said, “We’re looking at everything, and that could even include making it a significantly smaller project for less environmental concerns.”

The original project faced criticism over potential environmental impacts, particularly regarding water quality and selenium management. Selenium, a naturally occurring element, can be harmful in high concentrations.

Blacklaws emphasized the company’s commitment to responsible mining practices, stating that modern techniques would be employed to manage selenium levels effectively.

“We start with avoidance and minimization,” she said, “We keep selenium-containing rock away from waterways, capture mine-affected water separately, and treat it if necessary before releasing it back into the environment.”

She noted that while Calgary’s drinking water allows up to 50 parts per billion of selenium, the mine would be required to release water with selenium levels at or below 10 parts per billion.

Community members expressed concerns about the project’s environmental impact and the previous application’s deficiencies.

When asked why the company didn’t simply revise and resubmit the original plan, Blacklaws responded, “That’s exactly what we’re doing. We’re addressing the deficiencies, cleaning them up, and then resubmitting.”

Northback is also seeking approval for an exploration drilling program to gather additional data for the new application. A hearing is scheduled for December 3 and 4 in Blairmore.

“We would like to get more data,” Blacklaws said, “Can we move ahead without it? We certainly can, but we’d prefer to have that data to inform our new plan.”

The relationship with local First Nations, particularly the Piikani Nation, remains a priority for Northback. Blacklaws highlighted ongoing discussions and the importance of mutual support.

“We have a very special relationship with Piikani,” she said, “We’re constantly looking at ways we can help one another.”

The Municipality of Crowsnest Pass plans to hold a plebiscite on November 25 to gauge community support for coal projects. Northback intends to increase its engagement efforts ahead of the vote.

“Expect to see me more,” Blacklaws told attendees, “We want to have an open and transparent relationship with the folks of the Crowsnest Pass.”

She acknowledged the contentious nature of coal mining in the area but emphasized the project’s potential benefits.

“Steel-making coal is a very profitable commodity because the demand is very much there,” she said, “We need steel for our everyday life.”

Residents raised questions about water usage, environmental regulations, and the impact on local waterways. Blacklaws assured them that the company would meet or exceed environmental standards.

“We have some of the strictest regulations here in Alberta,” she said, “If we don’t adhere to them, we don’t have a license to operate.”

As Northback moves forward with its revised application, the company aims to address community concerns and secure the necessary approvals.

“We’re not submitting the same project,” Blacklaws said, “It’s going to be quite different, and we’re committed to making it a project that benefits both people and the environment.”