BELLINGHAM, Wash. -- A new group has formed to come out in opposition to the proposed coal shipping terminal at Cherry Point.

Organizers of “Protect Whatcom” say they believe the public should be more involved in the environmental study and permitting process surrounding the controversial project.

Spokesman Humphrey Blackburn says the group’s purpose is simply to make the facts known…



Organizers believe that the standards set forth in the State Environmental Policy Act are sufficient to block the permitting process that would allow the project to move forward.

Meanwhile another group is continuing efforts to put a measure before voters that would prohibit coal train traffic through the City of Bellingham.