Subject: Strong Objection to…

Subject: Strong Objection to Water Drawing for Shantz Station Gravel Pit

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to express my strong objection to the proposal put forth by Capital Paving to draw water for the Shantz Station Gravel Pit, specifically under Category 3. I believe that such an action would have severe and irreversible consequences for our environment and community.

The scale of the water extraction proposed by Capital Paving is staggering. The dimensions of the largest phase of the gravel pit, approximately 350 meters wide by half a kilometer long, coupled with a depth of 25.9 feet, equate to a volume of water that surpasses comprehension. This quantity of water exceeds what is needed to sustain the entire population of our township of Waterloo Woolwich for nearly two years. Such an allocation of water resources is not only excessive but also irresponsible, particularly in the context of the global climate crisis we are facing.

Furthermore, the potential methods of water extraction, whether from trenches or wells, raise serious concerns about their impact on our groundwater resources. Any approach that involves significant water withdrawal threatens to deplete the water table, leading to long-term consequences for local ecosystems and community water supplies.

It is also alarming to note that this proposal appears to circumvent the stipulations set forth by the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) regarding the extraction of gravel above the groundwater table. By potentially lowering the water table through excessive water drawing, Capital Paving may be exploiting loopholes in the regulations to maximize their extraction operations by mining below the natural water table, which undermines the integrity of the OLT's decision. See footnote.

In light of these concerns, I urge the Environmental Registry of Ontario to reject the proposed water drawing for the Shantz Station Gravel Pit under Category 3. Instead, I implore decision-makers to explore alternative solutions that prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship. Rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and more efficient water management practices offer viable alternatives that do not jeopardize our precious water resources or compromise the integrity of our environment.

It is imperative that we hold companies like Capital Paving accountable and demand more responsible and sustainable practices in resource extraction. Our collective future depends on it.

Thank you for considering my objections to this proposal.

Sincerely,

One of many concerned Maryhill residents

Footnote:

Refers to OLT CASE NO.: OLT-21-001326, ORDER ISSUED AUGUST 9, 2023

[32] THE TRIBUNAL directs the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry to issue a licence under the Aggregate Resources Act for a Class “A”, Category 3 (pit to extract above the groundwater table) in accordance with the Site Plan filed with the Tribunal and found as Attachment C to this Order.