Elkford Opposes Teck’s Coal applications

The District of Elkford has formally voiced its opposition to Teck’s most recent Coal applications with British Columbia’s Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.

Teck has applied for two coal licenses located just north of Elkford on the Elk River adjacent to the stalled Bingay Mine project. See areas in red in above map.

Elkford’s drinking water source is from groundwater downstream from Teck’s proposed coal licenses. Drinking water quality and dust are Elkford’s main concerns.

“Although this land is not located within the municipal boundary of the District of Elkford, it is important to note the significant negative impacts a project at this location would have on the District’s values and quality of life,” wrote the District of Elkford. “The District has historically opposed any mining proposed at, or in proximity to, these locations as they have a detrimental impact on the social, environmental, and recreational values of the community.”

The Elk River runs through both proposed Teck coal licenses. Tecks existing mines are poisoning the Elk River with selenium and sulfates and have caused the trout population to collapse.

Here is Elkford’s letter to the Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Resources: Elkford-Letter-to-B.C.-Government-on-Tecks-Land-Applications-February-6-2020