1 of 1Leo Sabulsky and Blair Lekstrom, MLA Peace River, at the 2012 Coal Forum held in Chetwynd. — Photo courtesy District of Chetwynd
On October 9 and 10, 2013, the communities of Tumbler Ridge and Chetwynd in northern B.C. will once again host the annual Community Coal & Energy Forum.
The forum, to be held at Trend Mountain Hotel in Tumbler Ridge, will unite the companies and trades working in the area at the many mines, for both coal and alternative energy.
Ellen Calliou, economic development officer for the District of Chetwynd, said the forum provides an opportunity for networking within the industry.
"We have a very large area with a number of different projects going on," said Calliou. "This conference first began with the government really encouraging us to take part and get communication lines open. It's a wonderful event and is a great partnership with our community."
Companies will gather to talk about what they're doing in the area and their common goals. Training with Northern Lights College and the Coal Association of Canada is included as well. There are also updates on the transportation corridor and alternative energy projects.
On Wednesday, October 9, there will be selected mine tours throughout the day. This will be followed by a social at 6 p.m.
"The reception has definitely grown," said Calliou. "This year we will give trades and subcontractors the opportunity to set up displays during the day on Wednesday. We actually have one provider bringing in a steel drill. The displays will be a great way for people to show what they offer and what they're doing in the area."
Thursday, October 10, will feature a showcase of businesses and presentations on current industry trends. Related topics that will be covered include decisions in the regulatory environment, community impacts, coal markets, industry opportunities and alternative energy projects. The forum has also invited the Minister of State for Mining and the Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources to attend.
According to Calliou, this forum is not so much for the public but a networking and idea-sharing event for those in the industry, whether already established or looking to come into the area. It covers not only the coal industry but also transportation, jobs and First Nations awareness.
No matter what the topic, Calliou stressed how important a forum like this is.
"Because we have every industry within the Chetwynd/Tumbler Ridge area, it's important for everyone to know what's going on—from employment surges to the effects on the road system, needs for housing and to share information with First Nations communities," she said. "It's important for all of us to participate and to know and share ideas about what's going on in our community."
Registration for the conference is open right now. Attendance will be capped because the facility can only hold so many people. The mine tour component is open to schools and universities on Wednesday, October 9. More information is available on this document.