Highvale Mine Pit 09

TransAlta has applied to Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (AESRD), and the Energy Resources Conservation Board (ERCB) for a licence to develop, operate and reclaim a new mine pit (pit 09) within the current Highvale Mine permit boundary. Pit 09 is located south of pit 08 and northeast of the North Saskatchewan River.

TransAlta first applied to the ERCB for a permit for the Highvale Mine in 1976. When the permit was granted in 1977, it gave TransAlta the mineral rights to the coal resources underlying the Highvale Mine Permit Area. The permit also gave TransAlta approval to develop the Highvale Mine (coal processing facilities, access roads, etc.) and to conduct mineral exploration within the permit area. In order to proceed with mining, TransAlta also has to apply to the ERCB and AESRD for a licence for each of the pits within the Highvale Mine Permit Area.

As part of TransAlta’s commitment to public engagement TransAlta provides many opportunities for individuals and community groups to provide input into TransAlta’s Pit 09 Project. An information booklet about the Pit 09 Project is available for review and anyone requesting more information is invited to contact the people listed below.

On April 4, 2013 the Notice of Application for the proposed Highvale Mine Pit 09 project was issued by the ERCB and AESRD.  The notice is posted on the ERCB website at www.ercb.ca. The application is also available for review on the ERCB website – Application No. 1753054. Statements of concern under the EPEA (Environmental Protection & Enhancement Act) and the Water Act must be submitted by May 13, 2013.

Please contact:
Ralph Leriger
Manager, Communications and Community Relations
or Cheryl McNeil
Senior Community Relations Advisor
TransAlta
1-877-636-7822
email: ralph_leriger@transalta.com
email: cheryl_mcneil@transalta.com