WHAT WE HEARD

 

The pre-engagement phase has now concluded. The following summarizes our key takeaways:​

 

1) NOISE

 

• Blasting: Attendees appreciated that the scale of blasting has remained small and controlled with no major increases over time.

• Crushing: Some residents expressed concerns about the steady, low sound from crushing operations, which echoes through the area and affects their ability to enjoy being outdoors, such as barbecuing in the summer.

• Jackhammers: The noise from jackhammering often begins at 7 a.m. during the week and can affect sleep.

Our Response:

 

• The operations are being done within the hours permitted through the Development Agreement.

• We have been working with sound technologists to conduct the required tests as per the Quarry Permit and Provincial License.

• Jackhammering locations can be looked at to consider opportunities to reduce impact on the community.

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2) TRANSPARENCY

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• Site Progression: Members of the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) voiced frustration over the lack of clear updates on the quarry’s progression which prevents them being able to keep other community members informed.

• Reports: Attendees requested that health and safety reports from the mine branch be provided on the project website.

• Project Updates: Additionally, they would like to see more frequent updates on the application and timeline of the project on the website.

• Open House at the Quarry: Several participants suggested hosting an open house at the quarry to showcase progress and the proposed expansion area.

 

Our Response:

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• We can ensure all reports and approvals received from the Province and other agencies will continue to be submitted to the RM of Rosser.

• It has been brought to our attention that a handful of community taxpayers continue to have trust concerns. LQI continues to inform the CAC on current and ongoing activities.

• Unfortunately, a public tour of the site is not feasible given the safety issues of an active quarry and also a business in operation. However, progress updates will be shared with the CAC, and the RM’s designated officer, Council, and any regulatory body are permitted on the site.

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3) ACCOUNTABILITY WITH THE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT

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• Checklist of Progress: Residents would like to see more accountability with the Development Agreement. They requested a checklist detailing which conditions of the agreement have been fulfilled and what is outstanding.

• Rehabilitation: There was confusion about the rehabilitation process. Attendees asked for clearer communication on what has been completed, what standards are being followed, and more regular updates, preferably with photos.

• Berms: Several participants noted that berms, which were supposed to be part of the development, have not been planted.

• Trust Issues: There is a notable lack of trust in the community with all levels of government and the developer to look after the community’s interests. There is also confusion about who enforces the Development Agreement.

• Expectations: Attendees are concerned about what the extension will look like as it progresses since their initial expectations have not been met,

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Our Response:

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• The redacted development agreement is available and can be reivewed by the community members and updates will be provided & discussed through the CAC meetings.

• Continued updates about the rehabilitation progress will be shared with the CAC. For example, we were working with a local to assist with the planting along the berms but the seed didn’t take. Berms will be reseeded by local forces.

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4) ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS 

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• Dust Control: Residents noted concerns over the drifting of dust – the winter is especially difficult as you can see the coating on the snow.

• Water Quality: Attendees would like a second opinion on the impact on water quality in the area.

• Landscaping: There was a request to see the trees that are on the site remain along the Powerline and Road 69.

• Wildlife: The animals that inhabited the area have been pushed away because of the Quarry.

Our Response:

 

• Landscaping and tree removals are a necessary part of quarry operations, but steps have been taken to minimize impact on wildlife, such as contracting a bird specialist any time a tree is removed to ensure such removal is done with sensitivity and mitigation measures.

• Dust control is done in accordance with the Development Agreement.

• Water is tested frequently and reports can be released to the RM of Rosser for review.

• Trees along the edges of the property are to remain for multiple purposes, including shelter, dust control, sound mitigation, wildlife protection, etc. There are no plans to remove unless needed for safety or hydro improvements.

• Wildlife continues to inhabit the quarry location, including deer, birds and coyotes.

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5) FUTURE LAND USE

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• Rehabilitation: Attendees wondered what the site will be used for once the quarry is depleted and rehabilitated. Area residents would strongly prefer the land be given back as a community use for walking trails or agriculture.

Our Response:

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• Currently, there are no set plans for future land uses. The RM of Rosser Council will work with the landowner to determine land use plans.

 

If you would like to leave additional feedback or have questions about this project, please share them below:

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