September 24, 2025
Treaty 7 | Mohkínstsis | Wîchîspa | Guts’ists’i

We’re not surprised, but it’s now confirmed: Northback Holdings is preparing to submit a new proposal for the Grassy Mountain coal mine to the Alberta Energy Regulator.  

The Grassy Mountain coal mine was previously rejected by both the AER and the federal government in 2021 as not in the public interest because of serious concerns for the environment, economy and infringement of Indigenous rights. 

None of that has changed. Any new coal mine in this irreplaceable landscape brings massive risk to water, air, fish and wildlife, as well as the people and communities that rely on these things for their livelihood and quality of life. 

No Coal Policy, No Coal Activity

After lifting the moratorium on new coal applications in January of this year, in response to industry threats and lobbying, the Alberta government started the process of developing a new coal policy, the Coal Industry Modernization Initiative (CIMI), which is set to come out this fall. 

The new policy is meant to give direction on where, if anywhere, coal should be allowed in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. Unfortunately, this policy is being developed behind closed doors in collaboration with coal industry executives, with absolutely no public or Indigenous consultation.  

CPAWS Southern Alberta believes it is wholly inappropriate for any coal projects to proceed in the absence of a credible, science-based, and publicly informed policy. And in the development of CIMI, it is indefensible for the government to disregard both public opinion and Indigenous consultation while simultaneously prioritizing coal industry interests.  

Sneaky Timing

Northback knows exactly what it’s doing. By submitting now, they’re trying to get ahead of the new policy and argue that their project is “too far along” to be subject to any future restrictions, such as a ban on open-pit mining. It’s sneaky and it’s disrespectful to Albertans.  

Take Action

Call the Minister of Energy and Minerals Brian Jean today at 780-427-3740.

Tell him:
We don’t want the Grassy Mountain coal mine.
The moratorium on new coal activity must be reinstated.
And we need the government to commit to a transparent coal policy process — one grounded in science, shaped by public and Indigenous consultation, and aligned with a sustainable future for the Eastern Slopes of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains.

Until that policy is created, no new coal activity should even be considered.  
 
 

For further information please contact: 

Katie Morrison | Executive Director, CPAWS Southern Alberta 
kmorrison@cpaws.org