Two of Alberta's largest First Nations have written letters to coal companies saying they will oppose any new mine proposals in the Rocky Mountains.

Alberta's energy minister says public consultations on coal mining will begin on March 29.

One of North America's top experts on pollution from coal mines is warning Albertans about the dangers of expanding the industry in the province's Rocky Mountains.

A coal-mining company with exploration leases in Alberta's Rocky Mountains is looking at how the government's decision to restore protection of the land will affect its plans.

Water stewardship groups were concerned about downstream contamination in Saskatchewan resulting from coal mining in the Rocky Mountains.

Environmentalist Kevin van Tighem says the energy minister's letter to the Alberta Energy Regulator still allows for the possibility of open-pit mines.

The province said Monday morning this move includes reinstating the four coal categories which dictated where and how coal leasing, exploration and development could occur.

Alberta is expecting to make an announcement regarding its controversial coal mining plan next week according to a government spokesperson.

A second southern Alberta town is asking the provincial government to order a stop to coal exploration work until public consultations on the issue can be held.

A 1976 coal mining policy protected parts of the Rocky Mountains. Its cancellation means there is potential for open-pit mining in areas where it was once banned.