Benga Mining, proponent of the Grassy Mountain coal project in Alberta, is appealing the rejection of the development by the province. The company has filed an application to appeal to the Court of Appeal of Alberta.
The Grassy Mountain joint review panel rejected the project on June 17, 2021, saying it was not in the public interest because significant environmental degradation would occur.
Benga says its appeal is based on a number of errors made by the panel: failure to consult with Indigenous communities, lack of procedural fairness, ignoring or misconstruing the company’s evidence, relying on non-expert opinions, and inadequate bonds required to address long-term water treatment costs.
Benga believes it is unprecedented for Alberta’s energy regulator to deny a project after a public hearing.
"The JRP could have addressed any valid concerns with the project by making an approval conditional on strict conditions. This well-established and proven approach ensures any development can only proceed with adequate protections in place,” said Benga CEO John Wallington.
The proposed metallurgical coal project is 7 km north of Blairmore, Alta., in the Crowsnest Pass area. About 25% of the proposed site was mined 60 years ago and not rehabilitated. Development of an open pit mine and facilities would cost an estimated $800 million and would produce 93 million tonnes of coal over a 25-year life. Benga says about 500 construction and 385 full-time jobs would be created.
Further information about the Grassy Mountain project can be found on www.RivResources.com.
April 18, 2024
Comments
Robert Sanelli
The mine and the Benga have spent a lot of money and resources in preparation for the opening of the mine. It would be good for Alberta , the country and Blairmore. Creating and maintaining green space along with the Golf Cource. The operation would generate jobs and money to the area.