Nelson Aggregate modifies quarry proposal to conform to new MNR extraction
limits
Nelson proposes to plant and protect new forest corridor on adjacent lands
BURLINGTON, ON, May 3 /CNW/ - The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) has issued an updated extraction footprint for the Burlington Quarry Extension proposed by Nelson Aggregate Company, and Nelson has confirmed it will reduce the extraction area to conform to these limits.
The newly protected lands will set aside habitat for the Jefferson Salamander, certain wetlands, woodland areas with endangered Butternut trees, and related buffer areas. "This is a significant change, and it demonstrates our continued commitment to working with all parties to ensure that our application preserves natural features on the lands," said Norm Elmhirst, president of Nelson Aggregate.
The company also announced that it has acquired access to a large acreage of cleared land to the east of the proposed extension, and that it plans to plant trees on this land to create a forested corridor to enhance wildlife habitat of the area. It is Nelson's intent that the newly planted areas will be permanently protected, and Nelson will explore how this can best be done with the local agencies.
With respect to the proposed quarry extension, there remain some outstanding issues that need to be addressed. But the company is confident that it can continue meaningful discussions with the various agencies so that the extension can be in production when the existing quarry runs short of reserves - likely in the next 5 years.
"We employ 48 people at our existing quarry, and regularly obtain services from another 500 workers in the area. Many of these folks are dependent on us for their livelihood, and we'd like to be able to tell them that their jobs will continue," said Elmhirst.
"We'd also like to be able to assure the City of Burlington and Halton Region - which rely on our aggregate for roads, sewers and watermains, schools, hospitals and other infrastructure - that there will be continued supply."
The proposed extension would provide some 26 million tonnes of much needed aggregate over its projected 13 to 15-year life. It would also support local businesses (about $160 million in supplies and services) and generate $6 million in municipal and education taxes.
Nelson Aggregate Co. provides quarry, sand, gravel and asphalt products used in the construction of roads, municipal water and sewer systems, commercial facilities and residential housing. Nelson's operations are strategically located in Beamsville, Burlington, Cambridge, Orillia and Oneida, close to the markets in southern Ontario that it serves. A major contributor to the local and regional economies in which it operates, Nelson Aggregate is a recognized leader in environmental stewardship, sustainable development, land rehabilitation, and best practices in aggregate operations.
For further information: For further information: please visit nelsonaggregate.com or contact: Norman Elmhirst, President, (905) 335-5250 or 1-800-263-6320, [email protected]; Sara Cauchon, (416) 777-0368, [email protected]
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