NDACT Discussion Forum
This is a location where North Dufferin residents can express their views to and ask questions of the NDACT Committee
The Highland Companies has demolished a number of houses and barns on
property that they own.The total is now 22 properties with a total assessment of $5,458,750. They have made an effort to clean up the sites
of destruction and have claimed that many of these homes were not
insurable but what do you think are the pros and cons of this extensive
loss of housing within our neighbourhood?
My name is Kate Armstrong. I live on a farm located north of Shelburne, Ont. in Melancthon Township. My father's name is Ralph Armstrong. He lives on the same farm north of Shelburne. My Grandfather's name was Russell Armstrong and he lived on the same farm north of Shelburne. My Great Grandfather's name was Richard Armstrong and he lived on the same farm, north of Shelburne, My Great Great Grandfather's name was Henry Armstrong and he lived on the same farm north of Shelburne. My great Great Great Great Grandfather's name was James Armstrong and he lived on the same farm. He was the original owner of this farm north of Shelburne. James obtained this land in 1853, before Canada was even a nation.
This land has provided for over 150 years and will continue to do so if we don't destroy it. I am speaking to you on behalf of a generation who hopes to continue farming some of the best farmland in Ontario that a company of international private investors known as the Highland Companies, may destroy by creating a limestone quarry.
I understand that no one wants a quarry in their backyard, but it is disgusting to even suggest putting a quarry where food can be produced for generations to come. For those who do not understand soil very well, it is important to know that not all soil is the same. The soil in this area north of Shelburne is designated as the highest grade of soil in Ontario, and is so special that it is designated as its own category as the Honeywood silt loam soil, our soil is the BMW of soil.
Part of the reason that this land is so good is that the limestone underneath it allows it to drain, whereas many farmers in other areas have to tile their land so that water does not pool and drown their crops. Take away this limestone and you will take away the soil's ability to grow high yield crops.
The Highland companies have claimed that they can restore this land after they mine the limestone, but the fact is that quarry rehabilitation is in the process of being researched. There is no guarantee that the land will be the same as it is now after it is rehabilitated. Even the Ministry of Natural Resources does not have any research on the specific agricultural capacity of the land before and after a quarry.
The Highland companies is proposing a 2,400 acre quarry that is going to be 200 feet deep and they expect us to believe that farming is going to go on as normal in this giant hole, that water is somehow miraculously going to stay out of.
I hope that nobody is this naive.
Some people have said, why not just sell this farm and buy a new one? If this is your thought line, then you are missing the point completely. People search for land that is as good as ours, land that is fertile, land that has excellent drainage in a climate and altitude that is perfect for growing crop and land that can even benefit from our strong winds and blowing snow. The combination is perfect here.
Most importantly we know that food land is a non-renewable resource. Let me say that again non-renewable. 1/3 of Canada's best farmland can be seen from the CN tower on a clear day. However 49% of central Ontario's prime farmland has been paved over in the later half of the twentieth century due to the growth of the GTA.
49%
Why destroy more prime food land, when limestone is found in many areas that can barely grow grass?
I don't want to buy potatoes from Spain and I don't want to buy my steaks from China. I want fresh local produce. What do you want on your table? My neighbors, friends and myself want to continue farming this beautiful land, so please help us to do so.
Visit the north Dufferin agriculture and community taskforce website at www.ndact.com and place a comment, sign the petition and contact your local representatives. Tell them that we want to buy local food and you don't want to prime farmland to be destroyed by a large limestone quarry.
I know it is hard not to be swayed by the Highland Companies money and their donations to "key" locations in the county, but ask yourself - are all the things they are giving worth what they are going to take away? I don't think so.
There is a saying only when the last tree has died and the last river poisoned and the last fish has been caught will we realize that we can not eat money.
When my Great Great Great grandfather came to this area, I am sure that he had hopes that his land would provide food for centuries to come. The decision that we are making now will determine weather all our Great Great Great grandchildren will be trying to fix our mistakes or whether they will be enjoying the food land, water and community that we have now.
Kate Armstrong
5th generation on the same farm in Melancthon Township
Karren Wallace: This is an excellent piece of work. Kate spoke these words at NDACT's June meeting and it was very powerful. (10/11/09)
3rd line: check out this blog miningforthetruthinmelancthon.blogspot.com/2009_09_01_archive.html (10/12/09)
gary h rideout: how do companies get away with this stuff,Don,t our ministry of natural resources have any say in this.Where,s our environment although i just saw what they almost let simcoe county get away with at dumpsite41. What happened to democracy,government by the people for the people,I think mayor fawcett would have made a better farmer than a mayor .,she,s supposed to represent the people that elected her.Where is the sierra defence league or council of canadians on this matter. (12/13/09)
gary h rideout: how do companies get away with this stuff,Don,t our ministry of natural resources have any say in this.Where,s our environment although i just saw what they almost let simcoe county get away with at dumpsite41. What happened to democracy,government by the people for the people,I think mayor fawcett would have made a better farmer than a mayor .,she,s supposed to represent the people that elected her.Where is the sierra defence league or council of canadians on this matter. (12/13/09)
Beth Attwood: Well said, Kate. It appears common sense is not all that common. I was raised on a farm by Lavender , Ontario and know the farm land in that area was good. I am behind this petition 100% (12/20/09)
jan: Currently another company called Titan is attempting to acquire thousands of acres in North Carolina and in Florida "building the 4th largest coal fired Cement Plant in the nation and strip mining 1000s of acres of the adjacent wetlands for limestone" Do a search for any of these items, Titan Cement Plant Wilmington NC, Titan Cape Fear Florida, or search for "stop titan dot org" I wonder if the same principals own Titan (02/02/10)
This is where you can express your views and concerns about any topic related to the activities of the Highland Company, NDACT and local government bodies.
Karren Wallace: Flamborough has been fighting a similar threat for the last five years, when David Lowndes purchased approximately 300 acres of land. Hamilton City Councillor Margaret McCarthy took a leadership role for her Flamborough Ward immediately when trees began disappearing and a quarry was hinted at, YEARS before an aggregate application was filed. She has championed that issue by successfully lobbying provincial politicians, Hamilton City Councillors and other municipalities for support. To see all that she has done on behalf of her constituents, go to her webpage at www.margaretmccarthy.ca We need and deserve that kind of political leadership here. It should NOT be up to the ratepayers to do a job for which politicians were elected. No elected official in Melancthon or Mulmur can honestly say they haven’t heard from the majority and the majority of qualified electors are NOT in favour of an open pit mine over prime agricultural land, water and the environment. The only entity that wants this, is one company who stands to make billions of dollars off the destruction of Melancthon Township. karrenwallace@sympatico.ca (05/29/09)
chris case: It would be sinful to destroy such beautiful farmland with such an ugly quarry. (06/08/09)
Karen Knight: Is our community so disposable.What are we leaving our children? No farm land polluted water and soil and air. No food or fresh water and what is the price we will be paid? Let's all work together to stop the quarry .. (06/09/09)
Louise Marcoux Phillips: Thank you NDACT for hosting and presenting such an informative and empowering meeting on June 20, 2009 at the Honeywood Arena. Listening to the concerns of Melancthon Township's younger generation voiced by Miss Kate Armstrong reinforces what our priorities must be; to leave the legacy of prime agricultural land and abundant clean water as provided for us via the Headwaters, intact. Thank you NDACT, for representing my family and I in these issues. (06/22/09)
Lynne: For the next meeting we would like to see less time allotted to Mr Michael Daniher! Under the guise of "Question and Answer" period, Mr Daniher is allowed to take over the microphone, to give 'generalised' replies to valid questions asked by concerned residents. In the January meeting Mr Daniher could not answer many of the questions put forward, yet now he can? Far too much time is wasted on him! This results in people walking out of the meeting - either because of boredom, or lack of interest in his fluffed-up excuses, which will probably be different again next time! I suggest the Q&A section be organised in advance. People should be asked to write down their question (on pre-printed forms) and hand it in, to allow more control over question period. Also some people may not feel comfortable standing up in front of a crowd. By doing this, I feel the question period would flow more smoothly, more questions would be addressed, and there would be records for follow up information purposes. (I would be happy to organise this) (06/24/09)
Louise Marcoux Phillips: Thank you NDACT for issuing a clear and concise communication regarding what is taking place in Melancthon Township at this time. The Highland Companies' agenda has not been made clear yet which makes the distribution of clear information even more necessary. I urge all tax payers and concerned citizens to add their voices to this protest and to decry the Highland Companies' environmentally unsound agenda. Call, write or email your Member of Parliament, Premier McGuinty and let them know your concerns, your issues and your outrage! (06/25/09)
Dave Boyle: Thank you members of NDACT for providing this communication forum. If it wasn't for your efforts this community would be in the dark concerning the activities of the Highland Co. For almost a year now ratepayers have voiced concerns to council with little or no real feedback. With all the input from citizens that council is receiving I am truely amazed that they have not taken a leadership role in protecting their constituents interests. Our Mayor's comment about trying to get the best possible deal just doesn't cut it. What exactally does that mean? I think I'm talking for the majority when all I ask for is transparency concerning Highland's activities and elected officials who will fight for the interests of it's electorate. Once again. Thank you NDACT and your supporters for stepping into the fight. (07/07/09)
Murray Laufer: I am completely against the development of this quarry and urge you to take steps to ensure that these plans are stopped forever. Developing this land for a quarry is completely inappropriate and unacceptable for these lands. (08/10/09)
Cyrus Sundar Singh: I am writing to express my outrage regarding plans for this quarry. I ask that these plans be permanently cancelled. (08/10/09)
Cyrus Sundar Singh: I am writing to express my outrage regarding plans for this quarry. I ask that these plans be permanently cancelled. (08/10/09)
Mary Lapierre: I've been folllowing what NDACT has been posting and what has been written in the papers. I really would like some clarification for I'm confused and have questions. If lost of land is one of your arguments then why is that I hear no one opposing windmills. I could argue that windmills will take away from land usage as well. As well as take about from the beauty of the land. If you are going to fight a pit you should fight the windmills as well. Otherwise you are being hypocritical. Two Acres vs 200 acres should not make a difference if you are so concerned about saving farm land. So again I ask why is it that there is and has never been any mention of ndact fighting windmills even your own mission statement is to preserve and protect ... including lands, character and lifestyle. I was reading notes that one of your voices submitted to council regarding the houses that are being removed. I really like her math but... In each of these houses that she is referring to how many of them actually still had kids for recreation? How many of these people rebuilt in our township? You speak of Higher education with the hope of returning. Without an industry to return to what would they do? Besides farming. Its not like my children would farm for although we own property we are not farmers. If your plan was to be followed and these houses where not torn down. Then what? They remain empty for rats and mice to live in? You're gonna force the company to maintain them? Force them to rent them? If someone could explain to me what your plan is for that please enlighten me. Thanks Mary (08/22/09)
Karren Wallace: Mary Lapierre: please come to the video dance fundraiser on Friday August 28 at the Honeywood arena and visit NDACT's table or contact any NDACT member to ask your questions. They would be glad to explain and provide answers. Thank you for your interest. Karren (08/25/09)
Adrienne DiCastri: Once again a 'fast one' is being pulled on the people of Ontario. WAKE UP folks! This proposal is so outrageous that I am almost speechless..and those of you who know me know how unusual this is! Let's stop this CRIME. Do we not realize that water on this planet is a finite resource? Once it is gone it is gone! And with regard to our precious agricultural land.. but for the 3 to 4 inches of topsoil we have we would be a starving third world country! Add this to the fact that the US is draining Lake Huron and then imagine your province as a desert!! Step up and speak up for what is ours! Do what is right. We Canadians are far too complacent and as a consequence we are once again being taken to the cleaners. I for one am sick and tired of our 'politeness' being used against us by the unscrupulous and greedy whose vision does not extend beyond their immediate wallets. This is just one of many atrocities being perpetuated on our country by foreign money hungry investment companies!! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! (09/03/09)
Ido Visentin: I support the efforts of this site to get a full explaination and understanding of the short and long term affects of the aggregate proposal. (09/04/09)
Ido Visentin: I support the efforts of this site to get a full explaination and understanding of the short and long term affects of the aggregate proposal. (09/04/09)
Dave Adeney: As a camper at Unicamp, the 50-acre Unitarian church camp near Honeywood, I support the petition. I'm concerned that the headwaters of the Grand and other rivers may be negatively affected. Has the Six Nations Council been alerted to this potential threat? Their interest in the integrity of the Grand River goes back hundreds of years. They are a very effective lobby group and may be capable of acting quickly. (09/06/09)
Dave Adeney: Here's an excerpt from an Oct 10/09 article in the Hamilton Spectator about the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario's annual report to the legislator, released this week: .............. Elsewhere in the report, he says planning rules are weighted in favour of the aggregate industry and destructive uses of land. "Municipalities have little practical authority to restrict the approval of new pits and quarries under the existing land-use planning system. They also are often reluctant to restrict new operations because of the costly possibility of facing an Ontario Municipal Board hearing. This skewed process often results in frustrated local residents feeling disenfranchised by both their local politicians and the local government." Commenting on proposals for a new quarry in Flamborough and expansion of the Nelson Quarry in Burlington, Miller identifies a conflict in the Provincial Policy Statement (on land use) between protecting both mineral aggregate and natural heritage features. He repeats a 2006-2007 recommendation that the province "reconcile its conflicting priorities between aggregate extraction and environmental protection." ....................... (10/12/09)
Claire: I feel that excavation of this land at the headwaters of these rivers that supplies water to this beautiful farmland , would be an incredibly stupid, and short sighted approach, to the usefullness that quality soil can produce.These farms ought to be producing food, if not for us then, to export to parts of this country, or others that are in need. (11/25/09)
Karren: Claire The headwaters does not just supply water to this farmland, it supplies water to more than 1 million Ontarians. It is very, very disturbing to say the least that there is a possibility that this acquifer will be cracked open and damaged, with no possibility of repair, jeapordizing our source of clean safe drinking water. (11/26/09)
Ken: NDACT held a public meeting on January 16, 2010 at the Honeywood arena. It was excellent, with the guest speakers giving messages of hope and to not give up. Please support NDACT, take out a membership. (01/17/10)
Gary Christie: As president of the Nottawasaga Steelheaders, an active group of anglers, landowners and environmentally concerned individuals involved in the preservation and conservation of the Nottawasaga River watershed for over 20 years, our group fully supports the efforts of NDACT and others to halt the progress of this quarry. We find this project environmentally and agriculturally not sound. It is destructive and motivated by financial greed directed by individuals not from the area and not appreciative of the land, its ecological sensitivity and its people. We will do what we can to assist in stopping the quarry. There is absolutely no way that Highland can confirm that that a project of this magnitude and scale will not have an ecological effect, tomorrow, next month, one year or decades from now. They can compensate farmers and landowners for lost income but who do they compensate for a lost species. The legacy we pass on to our children and generations are based on what we do now. Let us not let them down. If something does happen to our watersheds and ecology will the principles of Highland will be available for comment or accountability?? How about MOE and other government officials who side with Highland? Would they be be available for comment and accountability?? We put a challenge out to sincere politicians working on behalf of their constituents to stand up and do the right thing of integrity and stop this quarry Gary Christie President Nottawasaga Steelheaders Visit our Website www.nottawasaga.org (01/17/10)
Nikki Cosack: How can we be hypocritical by not fighting the windmills? This fight just isn't about aesthetics, windmills won't go below the water table destroying our environment, and furthermore windmills are a re-newable resource whereas an open pit mine is most definitely not. When there is no more limestone, what do you think is going to happen? (01/21/10)
Minebuster: Nikki-you are preaching to the converted. The really ironic thing about windtubines is they are a HUGE user of aggregate. So, not only do we take prime agricultural land out of use to erect windturbines, we need to take prime agricultural land out of use to mine the aggregate to BUILD the turbines. And the provincial government today just signed a deal with Samsung to provide acres and acres and acres of turbines and solar "farms". No wonder they took all the authority for the planning process related to "green energy" out of the hands of the municipalities.....they had this big "deal" in the works. (01/21/10)
Dave Adeney: Last week on CBC TV's nationally-broadcast "Power and Politics" program, host Evan Soloman interviewed Sara Harmer about mixing her role as a singer-songwriter with that of an environmental activist. Her involvement with the anti-quarry group that successfully lobbied against enlargement of the Nelson quarry on the Niagara escarpment near Burlington was very effective. Could NDACT approach her and ask for a statement of support? A simple statement of support could be useful on the website and in other communications, including submissions to regulatory bodies. (07/21/10)
The following is a petition that you may sign by making a comment on this blog. Please give your name, address and email in your comment if you are in agreement with this petition.
PETITION To: The Mayors and Members of Council of the Townships of Melanchton and Mulmur The Warden and Council of the County of Dufferin Ms. Sylvia Jones, MPP From: Concerned Residents of North Dufferin County
As you are aware, a business enterprise known as The Highland Companies, and affiliates, has undertaken a massive land assembly in and around Hornings Mills, Honeywood, Reddickville and other parts of Melancthon and Mulmur Townships. To date, they have acquired over 6,000 acres of prime agricultural lands.
A Town Hall Meeting was held and attended by hundreds of concerned residents in Honeywood on January 17, 2009, many of whom had only recently become aware of this land assembly and the impact that changes to the existing land use could have on our community and on future generations of its residents.
This concern was so evident that a committee of North Dufferin County residents was nominated to gather information, liaise with The Highland Companies and our elected representatives, and to otherwise promote the interests of residents in this matter. This committee, acting on our community's behalf, is known as The North Dufferin Agricultural and Community Taskforce, Inc., or NDACT.
We fully endorse the following statements adopted by NDACT: "We live in The Hills of the Headwaters, in North Dufferin County, recognized as one of the primary sources for water recharge feeding the Nottawasaga, and Grand Rivers. Our homes and farms are nestled in an area of magnificent beauty and serenity, amongst some of the best and most productive soils and farmland in Ontario.
The primary mission of the North Dufferin Agricultural and Community Taskforce is to preserve and protect these unique and non-renewable resources, including the agricultural lands, character and lifestyle that have played such an important and vibrant part of our community for more than 150 years.
This land assembly has occurred in an area that hosts the most prime agricultural and potato crop specialty soils in our Province. Agriculture has been the cornerstone of our community since it was established in the mid-19th century, and we feel that it is critical to the heritage and fabric of our community, today and for future generations, that these agricultural lands be preserved and that the safety, beauty, serenity and tranquility of our community be maintained."
WE OPPOSE ANY CHANGE IN LAND USE THAT WOULD PERMIT A LIMESTONE QUARRY OR OTHER AGGREGATE EXTRACTION INDUSTRIAL USES TO OCCUR WITHIN THIS PRIME AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE AREA.
We urge you to act in the best interests of your constituent residents and to take the necessary steps to officially designate and preserve these lands for agricultural usage.
Carl Cosack: We need everyone to help and get involved. Ask questions and demand answers. We need transparency and honesty in this process. Our best avenue are our local politicians, call them and ask them to support the people that vote for them. (03/02/09)
RICK RHODES: I am concerned about all the rich land or cropable land getting torn up,plus waterway;s getting redirected. thus changing our landscape that we enjoy as it is. (03/01/09)
Suzanne Deuel: Fully in support of this action to ensure appropriate use of these important lands. (03/01/09)
Kathy: I agree with Carl, everyone needs to get involved, ask questions, seek out the real truth! SIgn the petition. (03/10/09)
Christine Marcoux: I am very concerned with the secrecy and underhandedness of the land purchasing party and am hopeful that any zone changes DO NOT take place. This prime agricultural land needs to be used to grow food, not to be desecrated. Thank you to the committee for stepping forward and doing something about this. Hopefully, it's not too little, too late. (02/27/09)
Dennis Sanford: I fully support the mission statement of NDACT. I think it is important to preserve the agricultural foundation of this community. Open pit mines should not be a part of this community, and I hope the politicians have the courage to say no to this destruction. (02/28/09)
Rob Uffen: Having been involved in Ontario cold water conservation projects for many years and having seen the decline of both the resources and participation in conservation, I am, particularly, concerned about the effect of quarrying on the water table and the ecosystems of the rivers that have their sources here on the "dome" of the Niagara Escarpment, some of which, then flow through the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Extraction of stone and development of rail lines are public issues that need public awareness and concensus. I completely support the NDACT petition. (03/12/09)
Marion Bartlett: We live near the recently sold railway in the city of Brampton and are concerned about the proposed use of this corridor for shipping aggregates.The track crosses ALL major east west roads on the way to Mississauga,and traffic snarls are already a huge issue here. Safety concerns are also a worry as emergency vehicles cannot cross tracks when needed.Grade separations cost 25 million dollars each!! (03/18/09)
Krys & Debra Jones: We fully support the petition. We believe in protecting the environment for not only ourselves but for generations to come. It is up to all of us to ensure that no harm comes to our environment. We see our precious agricultural lands disappearing everyday because of some kind of development. We moved to Dufferin County from Brampton where farmland and nature are no longer abundant. We won't let the same happen to beautiful Dufferin County. (03/19/09)
tyler: It would be an absolute crime against nature to ravage this land in such a destructive and permanent way.. (03/19/09)
Mr. Reality Check: I seriously doubt your mental capacity. Unfortunately for residents of this area, we are mis-represented by folks like you who stand in the way of realistic low intrusive development, by blowing it way out of proportion and starting a bandwagon. The development of a railway back to Owen Sound will have profoundly more pros than cons, while restoring a certain nostalgia that we the people are so fond of in these communities. It is always depressing to see the close-mindedness of a select few who unfortunately are permitted to actually have a small say in what happens to our economy/lives/and community. The mine is not going to happen to any extent which has been discussed by your "taskforce", which has even been indicated by the HRG. I have no affiliation with this group; I only know that they will provide many benefits to this whole area, and to all of our children's futures, if we just let history repeat itself with a rail service to Owen Sound again. In fact, I encourage you to accompany me on a scenic tour train once it has been extended north through our homeland, to observe our beautiful landscape that we all cherish. Let's be grown ups. Sincerely, Intelligence (03/25/09)
C.Russell: I am delighted to see the post from "Mr. Reality check", silly though it is. Clearly the word is spreading, although I doubt that is what this anonymous individual had in mind. This is progress! (03/26/09)
S.Sanford: Re: C.Russell's comment 3/26/09 "This is progress!" Progress to what extent and at what cost? What is considered as "progress" is a matter of opinion. Many years from now, after all the changes have been made, it may not be considered as positive change. Then we will wish that we had a lot more foresight. The cost of "progress" may be too high. (03/27/09)
C.Russell: I believe S. Sanford misunderstood my post. People are now being alerted to the issues facing the residents of Dufferin and discussing them regardless of which point of view they support. This is progress. Now is the time to discuss these matters, not 5 years down the road when irrevocable damage has been done to our land, trees, water and quiet way of life. Unlike "Mr. Reality Check" who regrets that concerned citizens have "some small say" in what happens to the place we call home, I feel it is urgent that we all exercize that "small say" in whatever forum is available to us. (03/28/09)
Rob H: Unfortunately, C Russell, we've already had our "small say" when we've elected our polititians over the last number of years.(fed, prov, state) who behind closed doors made deals and gave out secret conracts to the people involved in this proposed quarry and other related projects. This steamship has set sail and we are unable to stop it. (03/28/09)
Karren Wallace: Rob H, the situation is not hopeless. The proponent, however, (and it appears some local Councillors) would like people to think there is nothing that can be done about the proposed irrevocable destruction of prime agricultural land. I am not a member of NDACT, but am in full support of the committee and am in awe of what they have accomplished in a very short period of time, with very little resources. Please, attend Council meetings, write letters, express your opinion, contribute to NDACT, get involved!! (03/28/09)
Keith Lawson: A lot at steak here. Water tables, river flows, water quality, possible future regional diminished agricultural GDP, the ability of big money to get it's way on behalf of people who want the best possible monetary return for their investment dollars. I have to support the NDACT and their mission statment. Keith Lawson (04/05/09)
Ed & Laura Dent: We oppose any suggestion of another 'pit' in any area that affects the watershed North of Brampton/Caledon - politicians and city 'fathers' REALLY need to CARE about the future of our water supplies and all our agricultural land, not to mention what little is left of our 'green spaces', habitat for our indiginous wildlife and what is best for our children's futures! Another PIT is NOT the answer. (04/07/09)
Anna Snipes: The residents of Melancthon and Mulmur need the power to decide what goes on in their own community. We DO NOT want gravel pits here. This is a farming community, and we want it to remain so. (04/10/09)
John Cooper: I fully support this petition. It is absolutely essential that we preserve this land - as trite as it may sound, it is our children's, and our grandchildren's, future. Every effort must be made and our collective voice must be heard! (04/13/09)
Anna Armstrong: I fully support the petition. Preserve our farmland. Preserve our water. Preserve our community! Go NDACT! (04/13/09)
Karen Black: I support this petition, save the valuable farmland! After all our farms feed the population. (04/14/09)
Anita Arnold: I strongly oppose any aggregate development in Melancthon Township. It is a shame that the land was sold with this intention! Anita Arnold (04/19/09)
ANdrew & Caroline Porter: WE OPPOSE ANY CHANGE IN LAND USE THAT WOULD PERMIT A LIMESTONE QUARRY OR OTHER AGGREGATE EXTRACTION INDUSTRIAL USES TO OCCUR WITHIN DUFFRIN COUNTY OR SIMCOE COUNTY. IT WOULD BE A CRIME TO LOOSE SUCH PRIME AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE AREA TO A QUARRY (04/21/09)
Martin Hunt: ... happy to add my name in support of this petition! And thanks to everyone out there for their leadership too! For those who say that there is nothing to worry about, better to ask questions now than have regrets in the future for not having taken action today... (04/21/09)
Jennifer Bailey: I am in full support of this petition. As a resident of Dufferin County I have a personal investment in the preservation of the prime agricultural land in North Dufferin, which includes the headwaters that feed the Nottawasaga and Grand Rivers. In the interests of sustainable food production, water quality, and habitat preservation I urge the Mayors and Members of Council of the Townships of Melanchton and Mulmur, and the Warden and Council of the County of Dufferin to act in the best interests of your constituent residents by designating and preserving these lands for agricultural use. (04/26/09)
Jan Singbeil: I am in full support of this petition. Our experiences in Sydenham Township, Grey County are proof that citizens can make a difference when they speak out for the preservation of health, culture, agriculture and small business in their rural neighbourhoods. While development may well be essential, it must be socially, environmentally and economically sound, enhancing the strengths and unique characteristics of our communities rather than destroying them. (04/29/09)
Kelly Smith: i fully support the petition. kelly smith 249537 melancthon osprey townline melancthon, on N0C 1A0 (04/30/09)
Mike Watson: I believe in preserving top quality farmland and therefore fully support this petition! (05/02/09)
Margaret Armstrong: As a native of the Honeywood area and an advocate of the preservation of prime agricultural land, I strongly support this petition. (05/02/09)
Shelley Camm: As a resident of Melancthon I would like to know why was there no notice of any of this sent around. Had I not passed signs on the way to the dump I would have been totally in the dark about all of this. (05/06/09)
Lynn Dowling: It is astounding that the Headwaters area is not designated as a protected area as the economic folly that looms will not only destroy the immediate vicinity but also those that follow the spidery path of the waterways. The echoing effect of endangered water supplies and land suitable for agricultural purposes will effect everyone for generations to come. Has the long term cost of contaminated water, loss of food production, loss of agricultural employment, poor air quality and devalued real estate been factored in to the Highland Companies' presentations? (05/07/09)
Kaylee Davidson: I fully support this petition - preserving our farmland is very important. (05/19/09)
Bruce Brigham: As a landowner on Grey road 9 very close to this proposed quarry I object to the destruction of pristine and heritage farm land in this area. Such destruction is non reversable, non recoverable by natural means and forever alters the landscape. If the products of this quarry are to be used for massive construction projects in the ever growing sprawl of suburbia surrounding the GTA, it should come from their own back yard not ours. (05/24/09)
Shawn Springer: I feel strongly that the lowering of the water table will have a huge impact on every living thing down stream. To allow this to happen, would spell death to most of the living things that need the water. Please do not go ahead with this plan. (05/26/09)
LB Davidson: I certainly feel that we need to preserve our farmland, and fully support this petition. My father was raised in this area of rich farm land and soon Ontario will have little land left to produce food for its citizens. Please preserve land in Dufferin County. (05/26/09)
Anthony Belcher: When the township was being given its name, it was called Melancthon because of the good soil. This name come from two Greek words for black and earth. This should give pause to anyone wanting to bulldoze it all away, and ship it off to the GTA. (05/27/09)
Steve: Anthony Belcher, Melancthon is not named after any greek words, it is named after Phillip Melancthon, please don't make things up to better your stance (06/05/09)
Sandee Matheson(Melancthon): To our local municipality, we elected you, as a farming and rural community , to maintain and govern our farming and rural community that we may come forth as just that A FARMING AND RURAL COMMUNITY, nothing else. It's a real , and increasingly rare , beauty, let's keep it that way!!!To our fellow residents and neighbours, the ship is definitely still afloat, don't leave, the grass is not greener anywhere else, it's paved! Thanks to the NDACT members, keep up the good work! (06/07/09)
Anthony Belcher: Steve. You made me check my facts. "Mela" is Greek for black as used in melanoma or melanesis. One meaning of the Latin word Unction is the physical thing through which God gives his grace... such as earth. When British gents were giving names to townships in Upper Canada in the early 19th C, they used their schoolboy Greek & Latin. Hence, we have such names as Artemesia & Euphrasia. What evidence do you have than Melancthon was named after a 15th C German theologian named Phillipp Melanchthon? (06/10/09)
Anthony: Steve. I suspect that you're right because Luther is right next door, and we all know for whom that is named. Perhaps P. Melanchthon's name is rooted in those other 2 words, and there is some "cosmic" convergence on this. The point is that we don't want the soil stripped away. (06/11/09)
Dave Plumb: I am opposed to any massive change to our rural environment. We live in one of the most beautiful rural settings in the world. We as citizens of north Dufferin have to stop the big corporations from changing and raping our beautiful landscape for greed and profit. I am very concerned what would happen to our water shed, wild life, breath taking views of our rolling hills, our way off life, etc etc. It will be changed and destoyed and forever lost as we know it. We live here for the beauty of the rural life style and do not want it changed by big business. (06/23/09)
Andrea Routledge: I moved to Melancthon just three years ago with the desire to continue living in a rural idyll. I do not want our precious resources and farmland destroyed by pit mining nor this beautiful countryside permanently scarred. Therefore, I support and thank NDACT in their endeavours to stop this land grab and destruction. (06/29/09)
Andrea Routledge: I moved to Melancthon just three years ago with the desire to continue living in a rural idyll. I do not want our precious resources and farmland destroyed by pit mining nor this beautiful countryside permanently scarred. Therefore, I support and thank NDACT in their endeavours to stop this land grab and destruction. (06/29/09)
David Miles: My father has a house in Hornings Mills and has been there for over 20 years. This pit will affect EVERYONE!! Please stop this American company from doing this. They don't give a crap about you, just the all-mighty dollar. This is a disgrace that this is even being thought about. Do what ever you can to stop this!!!!!!! (07/01/09)
Colin Black: Our council, and particularily our reeve, seem to be defending the Highlands companies right to a quarry, while attempting to dismiss NDACT as a radical minority. Show council that NDACT reps. have been appointed and are supported by a majority of councils constituents. Call your reeve and voice your opinion, ask her what monetary reason she might have for supporting the Lowndes ititiative. (07/05/09)
Chris Gilpin: I support NDACT and all the members are doing to try and stop these quarries. This area needs to be protected. The Highland Companies have lied to the community right from the start. They initialy said they were buying the land just to farm it. Now they have admitted they are applying for a licence. I attended the open house they had today and heard them sidestep questions about the water using words like should and might. Once their "scientifically proven" method doesn't work, the damage will be done and there will be no undoing it. They will destroy this area to make their billions of dollars and then just leave without question. Chris (07/25/09)
Diane MacColl: The damage to the water table will have far reaching effects, non good, it this pit is allowed to be opened. (07/29/09)
Irene Reyes: When are we as a people going to wake up and stop abusing our environment so there will be something left for future generations? I support this petition and ask that the government finds a conscience! (08/03/09)
Marie Day: We are vehemently against this quarry. We would like to protect the area as it is and not allow any variation. We do not want any industry developed in this area under any circumstances. (08/10/09)
Anthony Davidson: I do not live in the headwater area of North Dufferin County but I do live in the city of Waterloo, and area that is fed by The Grand River. I fully support this petition. (08/17/09)
Charles LeMoyne: Upon first arriving in Bolton, 4th line at that time, 1979 there was a problem with the water table locally. There was (and still is) a gravel quarry seeking to dig deeper. This was a problem for the local farmers, whose cows needed water - they had wells 200 feet and deeper looking for water already, some still without success. An environmental lawyer was retained by the group to represent their concerns. Ruling was in favor of the quarry, perhaps for tax revenue considerations. Have things changed ? Did I miss something ? my cynicism is the result of displeasure of the past. (08/19/09)
Marc Xuereb: I frequently visit a property near the affected lands to enjoy the Bruce Trail and camp with friends. I would be very upset to see much of the surrounding farmlands excavated for aggregates. Prime agricultural farmland should NEVER be developed for gravel pits: we need to preserve all the farmland we have for food production. Please do not permit this company to excavate any of these lands. Marc Xuereb Waterloo, ON (08/22/09)
Shelley Lafreniere: I fully support this petition. Please preserve some of Ontario's finest farmland and water sources. Let's show the future generations that we weren't foolish enough to destoy irreplaceable natural resourses. (08/24/09)
Susan Blundell: I am opposed to the Highland Group developing the land they own into quarries. This is prime agricultural land, and needs to be kept zoned as such. I do not live in this area, but I live in the province of Ontario, and I will tell everyone I know to come and sign this petition. (09/03/09)
Richard Elzby: I am in full support of this petition against the building of any quarries that interfere with the headwaters of these rivers and interrupts agricultural land use. (09/03/09)
Paolo Visentin: I,Paolo Visentin, fully support this petition and vigorously oppose what Highland Companies are proposing to do to the community. September 4/2009. (09/04/09)
Pamela Smith: I am signing this petition because I am strongly in SUPPORT of this PETITION to STOP the LIMESTONE QUARRY in Melancthon. We are the caretakers of our water, soil and air for future generations. When driving along 124, I used to feel pride and admiration for the potato crops. Now I feel dread and sorrow as I pass them knowing that they belong to a company only interested in land grabbing for alternative purposes. My son in law's brother drives all the way from Peterborough to buy potatoes for his chip wagon because he says they are the best he can find. I also think that the wind farms are a horrible blight on the landscape and not worth the time, energy or our money. (09/06/09)
Joan Burnett: I am in support with Carl Cosack and this petition. I would like to able to attend future meetings. (09/09/09)
Michele: I'm a Texan going through a similiar challenge where a water district providing water to several cities in the DFW are are wanting to build a lake to provide them water. We are not a water tap, we are rural families supporting ourselves on our land wanting to live a rural lifestyle with our families and friends. I read it's a US backed company who's behind your problem..I hope you fight them with all you have and more. I don't know if my writing will help, but I do want you to know I do understand and I do care. I hope you win your fight! (09/15/09)
Caleb Phillips: The quarry needs to be stopped, or Melancthon as we know it will be destroyed. I spoke personally with some of the people in charge of the construction of this quarry, and even though they claim that they will protect the farmland and the ecosystem of Melancthon, they have no serious plans made to facilitate this. After they are finished with the open pit mining, they have made no real assurances or plans to continue maintenance of the affected area. Without millions of dollars going towards the running of water pumps to pump groundwater out of the pit, it would fill in with water. Although Highland Companies have told the press and public that they plan to continue potato growing operations after the mining has run its course, it was explained to me that they were suprised that potatoes were even still growing in Melancthon, and that at this point they had done no serious planning or layout of farming or pumping operations afterwards. Doesn't sound like the type of people we should entrust our community to. (09/17/09)
Deb Forman: I fully support this petition, and am very grateful to NDACT for bringing this to our attention and all their efforts. Something's terribly wrong with a system that allows foreign interests to come in and buy up our land for their own exploitation of our resources. I realize this is nothing new but it's happening at an alarmingly increased rate as the world's resources are drying up and all eyes look to Canada. This looks to be clearly a case of capitalism running roughshod over democracy - we need Michael Moore! (09/17/09)
Joe Philbrook: I am in complete and full agreement with the petition to dedicate this land for agricultural use. Please save our farmland. (09/28/09)
Chris Chiaravallotti: I support the NDACT petition and applaud you for taking the leadership role to listen to the voice of the community and bring our concerns forward. Clearly you are making a sincere effort to represent the will of the majority where our political leadership has failed miserably. (09/30/09)
Ed Woodhouse: From a outdoor enthusiast's point of view, I feel that this quarry will be disasterous to everything this great area has to offer. I have seen this happen on a smaller scale where just one new swimming pool in the countryside near Peterborough, caused many wells to go dry. (10/08/09)
Ellen Papenburg: In full support of the petition. Keep it going! We don't want the quarry to destroy or at least impact the headwaters and the prime agricultural land. Also personally impacted with my friends, families and kindred spirits, and as past president of Unicamp near Honeywood, I certainly don't want our camp to be ruined after its 40 year existence of being a paradise for kids and families from cities and elsewhere. We will never have anything like it ever again so nicely centered in SW Ontario at a reasonable distance of all communities. NO TO THE QUARRY!!!!! (10/28/09)
Deborah Brinkman: Municipal governments are only interested in dollars, not the people that live here. Enough of raping our prime farmland for quarries & massive watertaking. Stop the quarry! (11/09/09)
Beth Walker: I am in full support of your petition. I don't live in the area, I live in the city of Toronto and am a strong supporter of the need to protect local agricultural lands. (11/16/09)
Rob Clarkson: Recently, it has been brought to my attention that that a limestone mining company has bought up approx 6000 acres north of Orangeville, south of Collingwood, which they plan to mine. Currently the region is a fertile potato farming area among other things. It seems the Media is either not aware of this, or has decided to ignore it. Please take a look at the at the following links, and bring it to the media forefront. Of particular note is the swath of land they intend to destroy, when compared to Toronto. Thanks, Rob Clarkson (11/16/09)
John Allan: Several years ago I purchased a small acreage north of Honeywood.I loved the relaxed feel of the area.My plans were to eventually build a modest home and enjoy nature.Now I am contemplating selling at a considerable loss.It will take me at least ten years to recover .Gravel is a needed commodity but the loss of peaceful farms to the noise and dust of gravel pits is sad .The farms and land that were purchased for this project were handsomely paid for and the surrounding land will be comprimised in value equally. (11/20/09)
Jane Kirchmann: I OPPOSE ANY CHANGE IN LAND USE THAT WOULD PERMIT A LIMESTONE QUARRY OR OTHER AGGREGATE EXTRACTION INDUSTRIAL USES TO OCCUR WITHIN THIS PRIME AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE AREA - the plans being made are unreasonable for this rich environmental farm land. (11/21/09)
Doug Nicholson: For once lets do the right thing and think of the people of Ontario first! (11/24/09)
sheri smith: As a 20 year resident of Dufferin County, it is un-believable that this company could of been so sneaky about such an undertaking. Why did our politicians not make it known to us years ago when the accumulation by Highlands of hundres of acres began. Someone must of known what was going on. For us to lose such an invaluable source of agricultural land and history is a shame. WE are 100% in favour of this petition. The Smiths (11/26/09)
David Kirchmann: What is being proposed is tragic and should be criminal. I support this petition wholeheartedly. (12/01/09)
Marcel St. Pierre: I absolutely do NOT support the mining concerns in this issue. Keep the farmland for the future. I understand that miners need to work, but there are other mines in Canada if what you want to do is mine. We can eat food, but we can't eat limestone. KEEP THE FARMS (12/02/09)
Katharine JarmanPrice: I fully support this petition to block the proposed change of land use. (12/06/09)
john bernardi: Our government is willing to send soldiers from here to go and loose thier lives in afghanastan to protect the people there, but when it comes to protecting the good honest working people of thier own country ,forget it. They should keep our soldiers here to protect us from these people trying to move in disrupting our lives and endangering our environment . Shame on them all. (12/06/09)
James Hermsn: I find the idea of someone or a company buying farmland under false pretenses and then turning into something else dispicable. What do we eat when the farmland all disappears? Is this legal or is it a broken verbal contract und common law or even fraud? (12/07/09)
Sherri Lamondin: NDACT has my full support. Its truely amazing in this day and age of conservancey that a large parcel of land would be considered for something so extreme. This company wants what lies beneath the soil to build roads right? So we sacrifice a major source of food for a road. Doesn't make much sence to me. Perhaps those in charge of this company should try for a week without water and food on the table. (12/08/09)
Tracy Armstrong: Agree with petition although worried it is a losing battle against a huge company with more dollars than sense. (12/10/09)
Karren: Tracy, they want you to think that way, that it is a losing battle because they have alot of money. This is NOT a done deal, not by a longshot. Take a look at Site 41, take a look at what happened in Melon Lake. Government policy is shaped by public outcry. Shouldn't we all have a right to water over this Boston hedgefund making money? THAT is the message that everyone needs to get out, to other people, the politicians and the press. They will be a strong ally in this battle. (12/11/09)
Mary Jane Vaughan: I am in support of this Petition - against the ruination of prime agricultural land. (01/15/10)
wayne hawkins: i certainly support NDACT in their endeavour to save this land from being developed for a quarry my family goes back six generations in mulmur and even though i now live in guelph, most of my family still lives in or neaby mulmur good luck and yes, i intend to join ndact and donate money wayne hawkins (01/17/10)
Mark Fieder: We have enjoyed the area for many years as a weekend visitor and are against this development. The size and scale is unacceptable and the potential detrimental impact on the environment would be reckless. (01/27/10)
Don Couper: I fully support this petition. If a US held company is allowed to start limestone extraction our Free Trade Ageement would not allow us to stop the continuation of their buisness without subjecting our goverment to compensation payments for lost proffits. We must prevent the destruction of our lands and water sources. (01/27/10)
Michael & Miranda Guindon: I fully support this petition. The lack of engagement at the municipal politician level is disheartening. At what point do these politicians disconnect from the communities, their spirits, history and their FUTURES. Why is economics the front runner and lack of action the norm for these types of matters? The communitiy does not want it, period, why is there any hesitiation to what needs to be communicated to this developer? (02/17/10)
Doug and Christine Johnston: We don't live in the township, however we do live downstream and could be adversely affected by the resultant affects on our water, as well as just being sympathetic to those of you in the township who are being ignored by your government representatives who appear to be catering more to this US corporation than their own constituents. We would like to add our voices in support of this fight to say this is socially and environmentally irresponsible, and needs to be stopped. We look forward to getting more involved to help you try to stop this. Chris and Doug Johnston, Glencairn. (02/25/10)
Doug and Christine Johnston: We don't live in the township, however we do live downstream and could be adversely affected by the resultant affects on our water, which I think gives us the right to sign the petition. We are also very sympathetic to those of you in the township who are being ignored by your government representatives who appear to be catering more to this US corporation than their own constituents. We would like to add our voices in support of this fight to say this is socially and environmentally irresponsible, and needs to be stopped. We look forward to getting more involved to help you try to stop this. Chris and Doug Johnston, Glencairn. (02/25/10)
Alastaire Henderson: I strongly oppose this mis-use of prime agricultural land and pollution of headwaters, as well as the descrecration of natural beauty. This company must be stopped from carrying out its quarry plans in this area and go elsewhere for limestone. (03/16/10)
Theri: I can hardly wait to learn what happens when all First Nations / Confederacy / Haudenosaunee Haritage Institute, and all things related to aboriginal rights, etc gets involved ... (03/25/10)
Tina Joseph: We have got to save the beautiful town of Shelburne.So let's get this truth uncovered! Sign the petition and save Sheburne!YAY! (04/28/10)
Shelly Godden: As a long time resident of Southern Ontario, I have watched industry chew up the prime farmland along Lake Ontario towards Niagara Falls. Houses and industry now occupy Ontario's tender fruit belt with a tragic loss of access to the spectacular produce the area use to produce as well as our independence from foreign markets controlling our fruit sources. After feeling the effects on our gas prices and on our economy due to our dependence on foreign oil, I wonder why we continue to sell ourselves out on basic needs for our population - like food. I think it is negligent to continue the loss of prime farm land in areas that are forever changed with damage that cannot be reversed. I can't believe the need for aggregates can't be filled by taking the process to an area of Ontario that does not provide vital agricultural value to the population. I intend to raise awareness of this issue to the area I live in, in Ontario to make sure all residents in Ontario have an opportunity to voice their concerns. The loss of this region is not a local issue but affects all residents of this province. (05/04/10)
Karren: Absolutely excellent event on May 29-People Power. Bands, people, local food, vendors, petting zoo, all of it. (06/03/10)
Paul Mitchell: Although I reside in Orangeville,I consider myself a resident of all of Dufferin County. This is my home.How did this blight on our beautiful,pastoral landscape come to be? Who let it get this far? Have we forgotten what makes Dufferin Dufferin?Are we going to allow a deceitful foriegn concern tell us that it's "for the best"? Out thief,I say! We will decide for OURSELVES what is best for our beloved corner of the world! (06/09/10)
Joey Lemieux: Why would anyone agree to a foreign company destroying prime agricultural land here in our area to extract the very minerals and aggregates that filter our water and then send the money out of the community have any appeal? Is it money that determines the fate of the land for the short term or can we be smart and preserve it for the people that are living here? (07/22/10)
Here is a location for adding news stories that relate to the activities of NDACT. Please ensure that you have permission from the source before copying information or adding links. Do not use the http:// because the program does not allow links in full format.
David Pease: An article from last Saturday's Toronto Star about the Caledon pit www.thestar.com/article/591036 (02/24/09)
Karren Wallace: Orangeville Banner March 3, 2009: "The Highlands Companies..says a quarry isn't necessarily in the cards." see for full article and quotes: www.orangevillebanner.com/news/article/65756 (03/05/09)
David Pease: A recent article in Better Farming Magazine: www.betterfarming.com/online-news/dufferin-group-seeks-ag-special-designation-amid-fears-quarry-1974 (03/20/09)
Barry Hebden: I fully support this petition..Our farm lands are most important to our community, to us, to our country. (04/19/09)
John Pomeroy: I totally support the petition and share many of the concerns raised by others. We as a community have to come together to ensure that our way of life and beautiful landscapes are preserved. I’m all for progress however I don’t understand how another “PIT” would better our community or ensure prosperity. Our precious farmland deserve to be protected and as such we should be reaching out to our elected officials to demand that they do their part to ensure that the voice of the community (their constituents) is represented. I pledge my full support and wish to thank the NDACT Committee members for their time and effort. (04/27/09)
Dave Adeney: At www.thespec.com (Hamilton Spectator) there is a good archive of articles about the fight to stop the quarry at Mount Nemo near Burlington. Some iinclude details of alliances local residents have made with significant environmental groups. Simple enter "quarry" into the site's search engine. (10/25/09)
Dave Adeney: Highlights from the Nov. 17/09 opinion piece in the Hamilton Spectator by Joan Little, former Burlington, Ont. municipal councillor and current member of the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC): On Nov. 18, the NEC will decide on the controversial application by Nelson Aggregate to expand its quarry operation near Mt. Nemo in Halton Region. Interested agencies include Halton Region, City of Burlington, Conservation Halton, NEC and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR). The first three of these and NEC staff all oppose the application. Several major issues are in play; the most serious is identification of a provincially significant wetland. PERL (Protecting Escarpment Rural Land), co-led by singer-songwriter Sarah Harmer, hired three consultants, costing them $50,000, one of whom evaluated the wetlands. NEC is recommending a report be prepared in response to petitions from Halton, Burlington and PERL to re-designate lands in Mount Nemo with a more protective designation. The NEC, an arm's-length provincial agency, reports to MNR, the ministry which hosts conservation authorities, looks after forests and wetland, but also issues aggregate licences. NEC will review another application on Nov. 18. Walker Aggregate in Clearview Township wants to expand. A key issue is impact on three rivers: Pretty, Mad and Beaver. Little says, "Quarries have had stunning success at hearings but these will be major tests of quarrying vs. environmental degradation." (11/17/09)
Dave Adeney: Highlights from Dec. 1 Hamilton Spectator article by former Burlington municipal councillor Joan Little: It usually costs a lot to oppose an application for land-use planning. There is the possibility that review/approval Boards will assess costs. She mentions two recent quarry applications to the Niagara Escarpment Commission and high costs for one anti-quarry group. Citizen groups running fund-raising events are competing with big corporations with bags of money. She asks for a better way - such as a tribunal to asses the validity of a group's concerns. Then, if concerns were found valid, at least part of the appeal funding to be provided from the public purse. (12/01/09)
the truth hurts: NDACT seemed to over look this acticle on their web site. It is pretty true so no sense hidding it. .orangeville.com/opinion/letters/article/606957--an-inconvenient-truth-about-progress-and-growth If a Melancthon isnt a good spot for a quarry maybe you could suggest a better place, as the need and use of aggregate is unstopable. (02/12/10)
Karren: No argument, there is an appetite for aggregate that is unstoppable, kind of like most people's appetite's for food and water. SO, if aggregate is to go here, because it is in short supply and really needed....that is the same argument for NOT putting the mine here. Prime agricultural land is in extremely short supply is non renewable and there is an unstoppable appetite for it. So lets put the quarry here. Where do you suggest we produce our food? (02/15/10)
the truth hurts: If farm land is in such short supply, you would have thought farming would be more profitable, and the locals may not have been so quick to sell, as they would have been making lots of money from their land. And last time I check the "best" farm land in Ontario was being eatin up by Brampton (Peel) and Halton area housing projects. The Government doesn’t seem interested in protecting that land, so what makes you think they will in Melancthon, one of the most under populated townships in Southern Ontario. From what I understand, limestone is only available from curtain areas, (where god put it)so it can only be extracted from where it is, not from where you would like it to be. As far as water goes, do you know any areas that have gone "dry" from pit or quarry activities in Ontario? And if so please let the MOE and MNR know, as Ontario has strick water laws, that prohibit such things from happening. (02/16/10)
the truth hurts: oh and last time I checked the super market, 99.9% of our produce come from the south during winter months!!! So you better head down there and make sure they aren’t messing up their farming land also, I am sure they would appreciate that. (02/16/10)
Joe Bloggs: What are you talking about? I only eat food that is grown within 100 km of my home. Granted my diet consists of only beef, potatoes and a few grains which over the past 50 years has resulted in a sickly and grotesque near human existence, deforming what is left of my body. Who needs fruit in the winter or the summer I say. (02/18/10)
Dave Adeney: The April 14, 2010 issue of the Hamilton Spectator has a very detailed, well-written full-page article on the history of the Carlisle, Ont. anti-quarry effort leading to the success announced April 12 (provincial minister's order preventing St. Mary's Cement from opening quarry). (04/14/10)
the truth hurts: Yes the Flamborough Quarry, was SURROUNDED by hundreds of million dollar plus estate homes, people with very deep pockets and most import they had people plugged directly into the provincal governement. (04/20/10)
It would be of interest to know how North Dufferin residents can best be served by the NDACT Committee. Please make suggestions here.
David Pease: For more information about the rail line and Melancthon Township's response, check the web site ,www.ndact.com, news section. (02/24/09)
steve: Without knowing all the details first hand, I try and gather as much information as I can myself, and evaluate it for it's worth. What I have noticed is mis-information on BOTH sides of the fence with regards to a quarry/tree cutting, etc. If NDACT is trying to fight the good fight, make sure you cross your Ts and dot your Is. Each time you make comments that aren't true, or are 'incorrect' your stance is severly diminished (06/05/09)
brent lane: hi i have one little comment im a open pit worker and have been for 20 yrs and unless you people are going to support my family then im all for the open pit mine.other words im glad to see it come here its about time,just because it means jobs in dufferin and indursty.and i work for one of the biggest pit here in ontario and glad to see one come to dufferin,pit do add to the econmey not with material but natural wild life with,sanctarys,and ponds .just to say im all for it and only one person but i hope you people can look beond the badness of its not a quarry but a new begining in life. thank you brent lane (06/23/09)
Charles Hooker: I would like to contact one or members of the NDACT executive directly, to discuss the legal issues. I would be grateful for a name and telephone umbre I can call. Contact me by email, please. (09/18/09)
chris ruhl: this is insane, some of the best farm land into a pit, no way, i see thousands of tons of imported foods. Wrong political parties get it right or get unemployed. The world has killed there own economy with imports not CANADA.....Beleive me even apple juice comes from china not THORNBURY or SIMCOE....why free trade...no more...put your feet in and fight..if not for your own hertiage for your children..support tarrifs make free trade obsoletefair trade maybe... (09/19/09)
chris ruhl: this is insane, some of the best farm land into a pit, no way, i see thousands of tons of imported foods. Wrong political parties get it right or get unemployed. The world has killed there own economy with imports not CANADA.....Beleive me even apple juice comes from china not THORNBURY or SIMCOE....why free trade...no more...put your feet in and fight..if not for your own hertiage for your children..support tarrifs make free trade obsoletefair trade maybe... (09/19/09)
Dave Adeney: A potential concern for us in the quarry issue is raised by the following article in the Oct. 7/09 Hamilton Spectator: Ontario should bring in anti-SLAPP laws: report TORONTO. Ontario should introduce legislation that would protect citizen groups fighting to protect natural areas from intimidating legal tactics used by developers, such as so-called SLAPP lawsuits, environmental commissioner Gord Miller said in his annual report yesterday. SLAPP - or strategic lawsuits against public participation - are stopping local residents from participating in the planning porocess out of fear they'll be saddled with huge legal costs, he said. Miller's report also: . urges stronger protection for woodlands as the province reviews its land use planning policy . says many of Ontario's cropland soils are experiencing considerable erosion . warns that Ontario frog, toad and salamander species are at risk and face an uncertain future due to habitat loss, chemical pollution, and invasive species." The Canadian Press (10/07/09)
Aurora Browne: A huge hole in the ground does not represent the beginning of life, it is the end of an ecosystem, an economy, and a way of living for everyone around it. Furthermore, this "reclamation" business is lunacy. Does everyone realize that if this company simply makes the hole deep enough, they are released from any obligation to put things back the way they were? And how do you put things back, when you've taken out millions of tons of bedrock? Make no mistake, this is BAD NEWS. (11/16/09)
Joe Bloggs: OK, so some jobs will be created and then guess what, there won't be any town left? The water table is the biggest issue, and some lousy ponds aren't going to cut it. We understand both sides of the fence here, I'm sick of people thinking that we don't understand that yes, we know that we use limestone on a daily basis and the number of jobs a massive quarry will produce. But tell me what happens when there is no more limestone? They just up and leave,and everyone downstream has had to move, and there is no more environment. I think I can see the both sides of the fence here pretty clear, and I know exactly which one is the wrong one. (01/21/10)
This is a location where North Dufferin residents can express their views to and ask questions of the NDACT Committee
JK: I have a question: are these houses being torn down so that they can use the land for farming... or are these houses being torn down because it is where they plan to dig the open pit mine? Also, is there any more word on when the application for this quarry will be put forward? What can be done, now, to try and stop this environmental and community disaster from happening? (11/20/09)
Ken: These houses, barns outbuildings and trees are being bulldozed and burnt so Highlands can blast. These are located within the area to be mined. In addition to the 12 that are gone Highlands has applied for 7 more burn permits. The company has not filed their application yet, but the frames for the signs are up, so it will happen very soon. I hope that NDACT will post a step by step process with contact information that people can follow to object to this environmental disaster. In the meantime email a link to this blog to everyone you know, write local and provincial politicans, the media, environmental groups, attend council meetings, anything to raise the profile of this issue with the people in Ontario. In order to put a stop to this battle and in other places in Ontario fighting this same thing is to elevate this issue in the public to a point that the provincial government changes provincial policies that currently state aggregate is more important than local food sources, water or the environment. (11/20/09)
art wanders: Everyday I drive home another home or farm is being destroyed and bush being cleared. It truly is making me sick in my stomach to see this. I thought common sense would prefail , but now am truly dis-heartened by what I see and they havn't even started the pit. I disappointed with our politicians, impudent by-standers in this process. As we have all heard the term before, "follow the money". Wecome to the 'badlands" people and say goodbuy to "Honeywood" future ghost-town. Again, common sense did not prevail, I'm so disappointed (12/06/09)
Louise Marcoux Phillips: As homesteads are being bulldozed and burned all around my property I am extremely concerned about the effect this will have on our roads in terms of snow accumulations and wind havoc. As trees, houses and barns are being systematically eradicated so are the windblocks which have helped to deter massive amounts of snow from piling up on our roads. Does Melancthon Township have sufficient monies in their budget to support the obvious need for more snow plows and operators for this upcoming and future winters? Take a look at the utter wasteland that is the area of 20th Sideroad of Melancthon between the 3rd line and the 4th line. There is absolutely nothing left to stop the wind and snow from filling in 20 Sideroad and making it impassable for motorists. As more and more homes and homesteads are being destroyed I believe this community is going to feel the isolation as winter deepens ... the isolation brought on by roads that are repeatedly filled in by snow. What provisions has The Highland Companies undertaken to resolve or circumvent this very real problem? (12/06/09)
Ken: Concerned ratepayers advised Melancthon Council in an open meeting of Council months ago they had the the option of passing a bylaw under Section 33 of the Planning Act, which would force Highlands to obtain a building permit prior to being issued a demolition permit for each structure. Council refused to consider the request. (12/06/09)
Maggie Jordan: Just a thought. Is there anything in considering the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve designation east of the proposed quarry area. I do not believethe quarry is on the land designated preserve, but it is certainly right there and down water from the proposed excavations. I have just read in Maclean's that the UNESCO designation as a world heritage site has been rescinded from the Dresden Elbe Valley because they built a modern bridge in the midst of it.. Surely the biosphere preserve will be threatened by the turmoil and water table disturbance. Perhaps Unesco will not care; but if the presence of the quarry would threaten that designation, it would be a good PR tool to get attention from people in general who are not already cognizant of the proposal and its scope. Maggie (12/08/09)
gary rideout: the ogallala aquifer,the world,s largest underground lake and the key resource for an area that runs from south dakota to texas and from colorado to missouri may run dry within three decades.is this what we want to happen to the allison aquifier,and the waters surrounding the orangeville area especially if highlands is allowed to dig 200 ft below water level..wake up canada and ontario.become a major player in the global food market (12/19/09)
Karren: One more homestead, standing yesterday morning at 7 a.m., wiped from the face of the earth by noon, compliments of Highlands. I believe this makes 14. And don't forget, this is happening under the watch of our elected officials in Melancthon who had the tools to stop this. (01/21/10)
Joe Bloggs: Hey Karren - Love your blog. Cracks me up. (03/09/10)
Theri: Highlands still has to deal with First Nations as thier projects will also adversly affect aboriginal / reservation lands / water, etc. As far as I know, the Haudenosaunne Heritage Institute ("HDI") has not been contacted, nor has it received applications from Highlands for approvals to develop on any of the farming lots it purchased ... (03/25/10)
Ellen Brakel: As a citizens of this area our first priority is to maintain the health of our land. When we have been given such a beautiful gift in the quality of the soil and waterways why not make the best use of them. We need to provide what we need most to sustain life, healthy food, clean water and abundant wildlife. There are not many places like this left on earth. Please help us to respect this land. (07/22/10)