Mike Young, CEO of Northback Holdings, is set to speak at an upcoming Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce event. (Photo: Northback Holdings)

By David Opinko

Northback CEO to speak in Lethbridge about proposed coal mine

Nov 26, 2025 | 2:20 PM

Residents of southern Alberta will soon have the chance to speak directly with the proponent of a proposed steelmaking coal mine in Crowsnest Pass.

The Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce has announced that it will hold a “Lunch & Learn” event with Mike Young, CEO of Northback Holdings.

His Australia-based company wants to build a mine on the Grassy Mountain near Blairmore, which has proven to be a divisive project.

The City of Lethbridge recently reaffirmed its opposition to the mine, believing that it has the potential to contaminate the Oldman Watershed.

If this were to happen, the City says it would not only harm water quality for residents, but also damage farms and other businesses across the region that rely on clean water.

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On the other hand, residents of Crowsnest Pass recently voted 72 per cent in favour of a non-binding motion supporting the development and operations of the Grassy Mountain mine.

The general consensus among those who voted for the motion is that Crowsnest Pass lacks businesses and that this project would create many jobs and bolster the local economy.

READ MORE: City of Lethbridge remains opposed to new coal mines, wants to protect watershed

READ MORE: ‘We need an industry’: Crowsnest Pass residents voting on support for new coal mine

The Chamber-led session will cover the economic benefits, water management strategies, advancements in mining practices, and the project’s current status.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session with Mike Young.

The event is open to Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce members and the general public.

It takes place on Monday, Dec. 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Coast Lethbridge Hotel and Conference Centre. You can learn more and purchase tickets at LethbridgeChamber.com