Update on the Proposed British Columbia Cline Coal Mine

Baucus says mine could be delayed!

In the last issue of Congressional Watch, we reported on Senator Baucus’ ongoing efforts (as well as Senator Tester’s opposition to) the ill-conceived Cline Coal Mine proposed in Canada, near Glacier National Park.  Congressional Watch is pleased to report that a news release posted March 30th on Senator Max Baucus’ website states the mine will likely be delayed because a high-level environmental review is planned by officials in Ottawa.

Baucus recently met with Canada's Ambassador to the United States, Michael Wilson, who confirmed that the Canadian government will initiate a federal-level environmental review of the Cline Mining Company's proposal to mine coal near the headwaters of the North Fork Flathead River, which runs into Montana’s Flathead Lake.  According to Baucus’ office, such a review could delay the proposal for up to 3 years. 

Baucus stated in his press release, "We're not out of the woods yet, but this clearly is a strong indication that the pressure we're bringing to bear is starting to work. Now we'll keep the heat on and continue to fight for the Flathead."

The Cline Mine Company recently finished a public comment period on its “draft terms of reference”, which will outline what Cline must do to produce a satisfactory application and environmental review from the British Columbia government. However, members of Montana’s Flathead Basin Commission assert the document doesn't take into account the cumulative effects of other mines currently being proposed in the Canadian Flathead.

The Department of Fisheries in Ottawa is also planning to request an assessment by Environment Canada (which is equivalent of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) once the provincial assessment is completed.

Congressional Watch applauds Senator Baucus for his leadership and for fighting to protect the Flathead’s outstanding fish and wildlife habitat and robust outdoor recreation industry.  Please contact Senator Baucus to thank him for his tireless work on this critical issue!