The Associated Press story on last Wednesday's Flathead Basin Commission meeting as it appeared in the Friday, December 9, 2005 online edition of the Helena Independent Record . . .
A Canadian company that wants to develop a coal mine north of Glacier National Park has agreed to subject the project to a comprehensive environmental review rather than try to open a smaller mine and then expand it.
Kathy Eichenberger, regional manager for British Columbia’s Ministry of Environment, told the Flathead Basin Commission about the company’s change in plans Wednesday.
The news that Cline Mining Corp.’s proposal will undergo a full environmental review was welcome, especially among those concerned that mine waste could pollute waters in and around Glacier National Park.
‘‘An entire economy has developed because of this pristine environment,’’ said Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger. ‘‘Our trade and travel economies depend on the protection of this water resource.’’
Cline Mining as recently as a month ago told shareholders it planned to pursue ‘‘fast-track’’ approval of the project, seeking a small mine permit with coal production limited to 250,000 tons per year. Such a permit does not require a full environmental analysis.
Now, the company said it will instead apply for a large mine permit, a process that involves detailed environmental and socio-economic analysis.
Read the entire article . . .