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MOE finds deficiencies in mega-quarry data, interpretation

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In Quarries
Jun 26th, 2011
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Ministry details concerns over modelling of future impacts
AWARE Simcoe June 26 2011
The Ontario Ministry of the Environment has filed an objection under the Aggregate Resources Act to the Highland Companies’ mega-quarry application, advising that it would be premature to consider issuing a licence to the company until further key information is provided.
The letter, dated April 26 2011, offers an evaluation of reports prepared by consultant Genivar. Among the concerns raised:
– The reports failed to demonstrate a three-dimensional understanding of the geology, hydrogeology and hydrology of the site.
– The recharge system proposal was supported neither by proof of concept data nor by comparison with existing recharge systems at other quarries
– It is not clear that flows modeled in a MODFLOW are representative of actual flows
The letter, from Carl Slater, manager of the ministry’s technical support section, concludes: “With respect to the surface water assessment, it is our position that the hydrological assessment for both the area comprising and surrounding the proposed quarry characterizes the existing physical site and hydrological conditions. However, more information will be required to address how future monitoring, trigger mechanisms and contingency plans will ensure that potential impacts to surrounding surface water features are adequately addressed.”
Also included is a 15-page review by MOE hydrogeologist Vincent Bulman. 

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