The urgency of mandating an…

The urgency of mandating an environmental assessment for this project cannot be overstated, as it encompasses critical issues that demand immediate attention and action.

Water contamination poses an imminent threat to the delicate ecosystem of Molly's creek and the Sydenham River, a lifeline for over 80 species at risk. The list is extensive, ranging from vulnerable mussels like the Eastern Pondmussel to iconic species like the Blanding’s Turtle, the Midland Painted Turtle, and the Snapping Turtle. Any compromise to the water quality could spell disaster for these already precarious populations.

Mussels at Risk:
Eastern Pondmussel
Fawnsfoot
Kidneyshell
Lilliput
Mapleleaf
Northern Riffleshell
Purple Wartyback
Rainbow
Rayed Bean
Round Hickorynut
Round Pigtoe
Salamander Mussel
Snuffbox
Threehorn Wartyback
Wavy-rayed Lampmussel

Fish at Risk:
Blackstripe Topminnow
Eastern Sand Darter
Grass Pickerel
Northern Madtom
Northern Sunfish
Pugnose Minnow
Pugnose Shiner
River Darter
Silver Lamprey
Spotted Sucker

Snakes at Risk:
Eastern Foxsnake
Eastern Hog-nosed Snake
Eastern Milksnake

Turtles at Risk:
Blanding’s Turtle
Midland Painted Turtle
Northern Map Turtle
Snapping Turtle
Spiny Softshell

Furthermore, the specter of soil pollution looms large over Dresden's fertile agricultural lands. With prime farmland already under threat due to encroaching development, the potential for irreparable harm to surrounding crops is a stark reality. This trend of agricultural degradation cannot be allowed to continue unchecked.

The thriving population of eagles in the area faces an uncertain future, as the proximity of the proposed development raises alarming concerns about their well-being. Studies have underscored the dangers posed by airborne animals sourcing food from landfills, highlighting the potential for dire consequences on yet another species.

Alarmingly, the proposed site falls egregiously short of the mandated distance from residential areas, violating crucial landfill legislation put in place for the protection of communities and ecosystems alike. This blatant disregard for regulatory standards underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive environmental assessment to thoroughly examine the ramifications of such proximity.

In conclusion, the stakes are too high to ignore. A full environmental assessment is not only warranted but imperative to safeguard the delicate balance of ecosystems, protect endangered species, and uphold the integrity of our environmental regulations. Anything less would be a disservice to both present and future generations.