Four concerned citizens in Elkford have linked arms to create a petition opposing the proposed Bingay Mine.
Melanie Wagner, LeAnne Cheswick, Janice Lucko and Amanda Taylor decided they needed to take action as they saw no one else stepping up to create a petition.
They have launched a Facebook group opposing the proposed mine, the Bingay Coal Mine Concerns Group.
Currently, the petition has garnered approximately 400 signatures.
In the coming weeks the group hopes to receive over 1000.
Some of the main concerns stated on the petition include the long-term effects on critical grizzly bear habitat, as well as the water, air and surrounding ecosystems.
The group is concerned about the integrity of existing aquatic spawning grounds and impact on residents and visitors wanting to enjoy the area, specifically Blue Lake.
It is also concerned that access to the Elk Lakes provincial park will be cut off.
This paper petition is set up at the Elkford Drug Store, where people can review and sign it. The group is currently working on getting the petition to Sparwood, as well as Fernie.
To contact an administrator about the petition, visit the Bingay Coal Mine Concerns Group on Facebook.
Once completed, this petition will be submitted to Kootenay East MLA Tom Shypitka, who will present it to the legislature in Victoria.