Residents debate Grassy Mountain coal mining applications [Video]

LETHBRIDGE, ALTA. –

Residents in favour and against coal mining in the Eastern Slopes had the chance to have their voices heard as a public hearing for three applications by Northback got underway in Pincher Creek Tuesday.

Thirty-four individuals and organizations were given 20 minutes to make an oral presentation to the Alberta Energy Regulators (AER) panel regarding the applications for Grassy Mountain inside the Pincher Creek Community Hall.

Northback applied for a coal exploration program, a deep drill permit and a temporary diversion licence.

“It is a very important part of our regulatory process to have the opportunity for all Albertans to have their say,” said Rina Blacklaws, a spokesperson for Northback.

The presentations consisted of those in favour of the project and those against.

“Even though we run cattle, we don’t have enough land to effectively live off of it,” said Lucas Michalsky, who ranches near Burmis.

“You need to have …