In 2014 Ontario’s auditor…

In 2014 Ontario’s auditor general reminded us that Ontario's source water protection efforts only protected Ontarians on municipal water supplies, and called for a speedier application of the Walkerton recommendations. In response to a recent EBR posting, the Canadian Environmental Law Association reminded MOECC that protections for rural groundwater sources still fall through the cracks.  The Greenbelt strategy is one piece to a larger environmental puzzle and we welcome the addition of the Bluebelt.

What we want to ensure is that the Bluebelt, which we now see extends into Hastings County,covers the actual growth area.  It appears it goes as far as Belleville, Ontario.  We wish to bring to your attention that Tyendinaga Township which is home to the 401 corridor is the fasted growing township in Hastings County.  While according to Census Canada, Belleville grew 1.8% from 2011 to 2016, Tyendinaga Township grew at a rate of 3.5%

We currently have one quarry and are concerned about further quarry development in this township given that we only have one, low yield vulnerable aquifer.  We are also home to many farms.  Water that is being pumped daily from the current quarry is not available for recharge.  Many homes could be sustained on the amount allowed to be pumped daily via the Permit to Take Water.  We want to ensure that no further development like a second quarry occurs that would compete with residences, farms etc. and jeopardize our food and water supply by impacting wells directly and lowering the water table to impact farming.  We need food and water first!

We wish to ensure that the Bluebelt designation includes the 401 corridor going through Tyendinaga township and for an area approximately 10 km surrounding it.  It is no surprise that we are seeing significant growth as in this township. Residents can be to the 401 in less than 10 minutes and then it is 2 hours to Toronto, 35 minutes to Kingston or Trenton and 10 minutes to Belleville once they are on the 401.  We also anticipate greater growth should the proposed VIA rapid transit materialize with the one stop from Montreal to Toronto being in Belleville.

We urge you to expand the Greenbelt and include the 401 corridor in Tyendinaga Township in your plans.  Thank you

[Original Comment ID: 213543]