It has recently become known…

It has recently become known that Strada is applying for a new water taking permit for January 1, 2026 in addition to the application for their blasting quarry of 180 feet below the water table. This application to increase to 5,000,000 litres/day would be used for aggregate washing in their quarry. This activity is forecast to be of significant effect on local water sources and aquifers.

The agricultural community in this area has increased its use of water in recent years and we have all seen reductions in springs and rivers in drier seasons. This gigantic new draw will jeopardize existing uses and wells in terms of volume. In addition, the use to which the water is proposed to be used will certainly contaminate the water and there has been no communication about how the contamination will be remediated, what the effects of the contamination will be on the existing water supply, how the effects will be monitored over time, what the remedies might be if the Company damages existing water uses, etc etc.

The company has made this application without explanation or justification. No attempt has been made to communicate with the community. As a local resident I am concerned that Strada will be allowed to take water to an extent that jeopardizes local communities and agricultural needs, contaminate it without any responsibility and return it to groundwater without repercussion.

The dramatic magnitude and the dogged lack of communication about this new request do nothing to reassure the community that the company can be trusted to act as a trustworthy or responsible partner over time. No standards or ongoing monitoring have been set. It would be irresponsible to approve such a risky proposal.

The quarry proposal of blasting 180 feet below the water table would be a water quality and quantity disaster for our Horning’s Mills community and surrounding areas. Please do not approve this application