It is a critical time for us to learn, engage and raise our concerns about the threat that the Telkwa coal mine proposal poses to our waters and communities.

We are entering the final stage of the environmental assessment process, and we need funds to hire experts to help with telling the truth about what this project will mean to our communities and rivers.

Telkwa Coal was acquired by Bathurst Resources Limited in 2023 and is now operating under a new name, Telkwa Mining Limited. Bathurst has continued the “Tenas Project”, and the Province of BC will soon be reviewing the updated project application, with final review expected to start by late 2025 or early 2026.

Past experience has shown that we cannot rely solely on industry assurances about environmental protection. That’s why What Matters In Our Valley, a local volunteer group, is raising $15,000 to hire qualified, independent experts to conduct a timely, updated technical review of the new proposal as soon as it becomes available.

The open pit coal mine is proposed on Witsuwit’en (Wet'suwet'en) territory, between the Goathorn and Tenas creeks, which run into the Telkwa River, a major tributary of the Bulkley (Widzin Kwah) River and in the headwaters of the Skeena, one of the last remaining major salmon bearing systems in North America.

The mine risks polluting our waters with Acid Rock Drainage and heavy metals. It is located just 7 kilometers upstream from the closest town (Telkwa), and within a protected area for a local caribou herd which is listed as at imminent threat of extirpation under the Species at Risk Act.

What Matters In Our Valley's expert analysis will be essential for the final public comment period in early 2026, helping community members submit strong, evidence-based statements.

Such comments supported by credible, independent research carry more weight in the environmental assessment process and can meaningfully influence the outcome. At minimum, they can help secure more robust requirements should the mine be approved. At best, they can help prevent a project that threatens our rivers, fish, climate, caribou, and communities.

To ensure we are ready the moment the final review begins—and that residents have the information they need to respond effectively, we urgently need your support.

Please help us reach our fundraising goal of $15,000. Donate today to protect the health of our watershed and the future of our valley.