Alberta country music artist and rancher Corb Lund has voiced his deep disappointment and shock following Premier Danielle Smith's response to his anti-coal mining petition. Lund, who formally submitted the 'Water Not Coal' petition to Elections Alberta on June 10, 2026, expressed his feelings in a statement released on Wednesday.
Petition Submission and Premier's Response
The petition, which gathered thousands of signatures from Albertans opposed to coal mining in the Rocky Mountain region, was presented to Elections Alberta in Edmonton. Lund, known for his advocacy for environmental and agricultural issues, had hoped for a more supportive reaction from the premier. However, Smith's answer left him feeling let down.
'I am deeply disappointed and shocked by the premier's response,' Lund said. 'This petition represents the voices of many Albertans who are concerned about the impact of coal mining on our water, land, and way of life.'
Ongoing Coal Debate in Alberta
The issue of coal mining has been a contentious topic in Alberta, with environmental groups, ranchers, and Indigenous communities raising concerns about water contamination and land degradation. The provincial government has faced pressure to balance economic development with environmental protection.
Lund's petition specifically calls for a ban on open-pit coal mining in the eastern slopes of the Rockies, a region vital for watershed and ranching. The musician has been a vocal critic of coal development, using his platform to rally support for sustainable practices.
Reactions and Next Steps
Supporters of the petition have echoed Lund's sentiments, calling for the government to take their concerns seriously. The petition is now under review by Elections Alberta, which will determine its validity and potential impact on policy.
Premier Smith's office has not yet issued a detailed response to Lund's comments. The premier previously stated that the government is committed to responsible resource development while addressing environmental concerns.
As the debate continues, Lund remains determined to advocate for the protection of Alberta's water and land. 'We will not stop fighting for what is right,' he said.
