The proposal by York1…

The proposal by York1 Environmental Waste Solutions to establish a landfill near Dresden, Ontario, has raised significant concerns among residents, environmental organizations, and local authorities. The primary reasons for opposing this project include:([Environmental Defence][1])

### 1. **Threat to Endangered Species and Ecosystems**

The proposed site is situated adjacent to Molly’s Creek, which feeds into the Sydenham River—a habitat for at least 33 species at risk, including the Eastern spiny softshell turtle and the Salamander mussel. Environmental Defence warns that toxic runoff from the landfill could leach into these waterways, endangering these species and disrupting the local ecosystem .([Environmental Defence][1], [Environmental Defence][2])

### 2. **Health Risks to the Community**

Residents within a 5 km radius of landfills are at increased risk of health issues such as respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases due to emissions of gases and particulate matter. A local resident expressed concerns about the potential health impacts on their family, particularly given the existing healthcare provider shortages in the area .([Environmental Registry of Ontario][3])

### 3. **Increased Traffic and Safety Hazards**

The proposal includes plans for up to 700 dump trucks per day passing through Dresden. This influx of heavy traffic poses risks to public safety, especially near schools and agricultural areas where slow-moving vehicles are common. Residents fear accidents and increased road maintenance costs .([Environmental Defence][4], [Environmental Registry of Ontario][5])

### 4. **Lack of Transparency and Community Consultation**

Critics argue that York1 has not been forthcoming with information about the project, leading to mistrust within the community. The Chatham Voice editorial board emphasized the importance of transparency to alleviate public suspicion and foster trust .([chathamvoice.com][6])

### 5. **Potential for Environmental Contamination**

The site's proximity to a floodplain raises concerns about the potential for contaminants to spread during extreme weather events. The St. Clair Region Conservation Authority has highlighted the risks associated with locating a landfill in such an area .([chathamvoice.com][6])

### 6. **Economic and Social Impacts**

Residents fear that the landfill will devalue properties, negatively affecting local farmers and homeowners. The potential decline in property values could exacerbate material deprivation and lead to poorer health outcomes for the community .([Environmental Registry of Ontario][5], [Environmental Registry of Ontario][3])

### 7. **Inadequate Environmental Assessment**

Local officials argue that the project should undergo a comprehensive Environmental Assessment under the Environmental Assessment Act to fully evaluate its potential impacts. They contend that relying on outdated approvals from the 1980s is insufficient for a project of this scale .([sydenhamcurrent.ca][7])

Given these concerns, many community members and organizations are urging the Ontario government to reject the proposal and prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of Dresden's residents and its unique natural environment.([Environmental Defence][2])

[1]: https://environmentaldefence.ca/2024/03/07/environmental-defence-stands… "Environmental Defence Stands with Dresden Residents Opposing Proposed Garbage Dump Site Near Sensitive River and Species at Risk Habitats - Environmental Defence"
[2]: https://environmentaldefence.ca/2024/03/20/statement-in-response-to-env… "Statement in Response to Environment Minister's Call for Proposed Dresden Dump to Face a Comprehensive Environmental Assessment - Environmental Defence"
[3]: https://ero.ontario.ca/index.php/comment/96911?utm_source=chatgpt.com "I have many concerns for… | Environmental Registry of Ontario"
[4]: https://environmentaldefence.ca/2024/04/18/dont-dump-in-dresden/?utm_so… "Don't Dump in Dresden - Environmental Defence"
[5]: https://ero.ontario.ca/index.php/comment/98057?utm_source=chatgpt.com "To Whom it May Concern: … | Environmental Registry of Ontario"
[6]: https://chathamvoice.com/2024/02/21/opinion-too-many-unknowns/?utm_sour… "OPINION: Too many unknowns | The Chatham Voice"
[7]: https://sydenhamcurrent.ca/2024/03/01/mayor-canniff-expresses-concerns-… "Mayor Canniff expresses concerns with the proposed Dresden dump project in a letter to the province | Wallaceburg News | Local news in Wallaceburg, Dresden and surrounding areas."