Re: ERO # 0250587 –…

Re: ERO # 0250587 – Application for Permit to Take Water – Hanover, ON
Ministry Reference #3171-DGHJX5

This application for a 10-year Permit to Take Water from a pond in the Town of Hanover for the purposes of washing aggregate is considered a Category 3 Permit, which is “anticipated to have the highest potential of causing unacceptable environmental impactor interference”.

Authorization of this Permit would likely contaminate water sources and/or deplete groundwater, including negative impacts to the Saugeen and Styx Rivers. It would also conflict with the province’s commitment to protect, conserve, and manage water for efficient and sustainable use. (i.e. Clean Water Act, 2006, Water Opportunities and Water Conservation Act, 2010, etc.)

This Permit application provides the Province of Ontario an opportunity to meet its objectives, including, but not limited to: developing long-term sustainable water use and conservation practices; maximizing water use efficiency and minimizing waste of water; and developing and disseminating sector-based best management practices and results achieved.

The growth trend of the aggregate industry is predicted to increase into the foreseeable future. This industry has the ability to adopt sustainable practices now. The province can encourage this by requiring that the industry install a system to collect, recycle and reuse aggregate washwater.

The following link provides an example of a water recycling system for washing aggregate, "reducing the need for fresh water by 90%". (https://www.flottweg.com/applications/industrial-waste-mineral-oils/san…)

It is not necessary to wait another 10 years for sustainable solutions. Methods are available now to wash aggregate, without contaminating or disturbing precious water resources. Ontario must provide direction and leadership to ensure that the multi-billion-dollar aggregate industry adopts sustainable practices now.

This application for a Permit to Take Water must be denied until a sustainable system to collect, recycle and reuse aggregate washwater is installed.