NDACT Discussion Forum

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)

Karren Wallace: Fully in support of the petition (02/26/09)

Louise Marcoux Phillips: Thank you for representing us in this official capacity. (02/26/09)

Laurie Lloyd: I fully support this petition.I am in full support of NDACT! (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)

Ken Phillips: I fully support the petition and the committee (02/26/09)

Kathy: I agree with Carl, everyone needs to get involved, ask questions, seek out the real truth! SIgn the petition. (03/10/09)

Peter Munck: I am fully in support of the petition.01/03/09 (03/01/09)

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)

ANGELA JARA: I fully support this petition. Angela Jara/Victor Jara (03/02/09)

Terry Phillips: In complete support of the petition. (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)

Matthew Cressey: I support this petition. (04/13/09)

Sarah Kinney: I support this petition. (04/13/09)

Ryan Spears: I support this petition! (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)

Stephen Banquier: I support the petition (04/24/09)

Angela Bolton: I fully support this petition. (04/26/09)

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)

Wayne Bell: I support this petition Wayne Bell RR#3 Singhampton, On (05/02/09)

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)

S. Hawkins: I support this petition. (05/21/09)

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)

Bryan Crawford: I support this petition. (06/03/09)

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)

John Doney: I am against the quarry. (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)

Tara Foulger: I support this petition. Protect our water and land! (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)

Vanessa Laufer: I fully support the petition against the quarry. (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)

Rob Cameron: We support NDACT! (09/02/09)

anita smith: I support this petition. (09/03/09)

Monique MacNeil: I am in full support of this petititon. (09/03/09)

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)

Ashifa N-R: I fully support this petition against the quarry. (09/03/09)

erin: i support this petition (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)

Garry Wallace: I am in support of the petition (09/08/09)

Joan Burnett: I am in support with Carl Cosack and this petition. I would like to able to attend future meetings. (09/09/09)

jan molenaar: Save our planet (09/11/09)

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)

Chris McRaild: I support this petition. (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)

Jill Kirchmann: I am in full support of this petition. (11/16/09)

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)

Sarah Merry: I support this petition whole heartedly! (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)

Sandy Nicholson: I fully support this petition. (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)

Chelsey Morphy: I support this petition (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)

Beth Attwood: I know this is not a good idea. We need land for agriculture. (01/03/10)

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)

Tricia Service: I fully support this petition. (01/26/10)

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)

douglas Koch: I support this petition. (02/09/10)

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)

Alex Thomson: This affects all of us. (05/21/10)

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)

John Ondrovcik: I wholeheartedly support this petition. It would be a crime to allow Highland to destroy any more farms and farmland. This is our legacy! Do not destroy it. (09/22/10)

Linda: I support this petition. We are loosing farm land at an alarming rate, something must be done! (02/10/11)

Ann Knutton: I fully support this petition. I want to save and protect our beautiful farmland and waterways. Both are soooo precious these days (03/23/11)

Ananda Shakti: This situation is nothing less than obscene ! how much more lack of respect for the sacred natural gifts from our earth do we need to endure and survive before those with power in their hands use it to empower the greater good rather than greed and unconscious behaviour. Please go deep inside and find the courage to do the thing that is best for everybody including the ones who want this to destroy, stop this destruction. Nobody wins if it is aloud. Especially the one who want it because they will end up carrying a heavy load of conscious from this choice. Thank You ! (03/23/11)

Kate MacNally: My husband and I were considering retiring to the area to build a Low E home and begin growing organic vegetables. Please stop this quarry from starting and allow the land to be used properly. We will soon run out of agricultural land and have no where to grow food to feed the nation. What then?...pay to have it shipped from the States so the profit doubly. Leave farm land to the farmers! We support this petition 100% (03/24/11)

Usha Ramsaran: Hello, I have visited this beautiful area many times, and want to see its beauty preserved. Ontario's ability to produce its own food is paramount to our future, and I do not support destroying this valuable farmland and beautiful nature for the purpose of exporting stone to fatten the pockets of a foreign corporation. Nor do I want my tax dollars spent on cleaning up the environmental waste inevitably created. I support this petition and am against this quarry. Usha Ramsaran. 1-2374 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M4E 2E1. (03/24/11)

talia: please preserve this precious land. (03/24/11)

Patricia Shaw: As a local home/land owner, I support this petition. River Road, Hornings Mills. (03/25/11)

Christian Leikermoser: The quarry must be stopped- this project has an impact on our environment it is against all law imposed by Nota Wasaga -Niagara Escarpment to preserve the precious freshwater this will steal our freshwater and discriminate against our basic human rights for freshwater. It will destroy nature beyond any imagination and time. (03/25/11)

Paul + Denise McCartney: This is of grave concern to everyone in Ontario and we will hold the political parties accountable for any betayal. We are watching your behaviour as custodians of our environment. (03/25/11)

Sean Dixon: We're shooting our descendants in the face with this project. (03/26/11)

David Bailey: To allow any sort of development of this nature near the headwaters of rivers is environmentally irresponsible. It is not possible to avoid disturbance to the entire river system when headwaters are affected. I urge the government to please stop this project before one of southern Ontario's great river systems is damaged beyond repair. (03/26/11)

Susanna Hood: I fully support this petition and NDACT. (03/27/11)

Doyle and Lori Prier: We support this petition--farm land needs to be protected. Once destroyed, it is gone. Doyle and Lori Prier RR#2 Dundalk, Ontario (03/27/11)

Frank Stillo: I fully support this petition.I find it difficult to believe that our municipal and provincial government can sit idldle and allow a large corporation such as the Highland Companies to destoy valuable farm land. The negative impact on the water shed and the quality of the water supply on all the communities that rely on the waters from the Nottawasaga and Grand Rivers is immense. It's another sign of how "big" money is being allowed to destry prime agricultural land, families and communities. There must be a better and more efficient way for communities to prevent this kind of tragedy from happening. (03/28/11)

karren: Please support NDACT by also writing a letter of objection to the Ministry of Natural Resources and the proponent. Check out the front of this website for instructions and more information on the proposal. (03/29/11)

Jen & Ben naus: This must be stopped. The numerous side effects of a quarry and mine this size will be felt by the surrounding environment for decades to come. Long after the financial gains of this development have dried up the protected lands near by will still be suffering from trauma done to the delicate water table. One of canada's most valuable resources, water, is not to be taken for granted. If we responsibly care for the health of our environment we may sustain the quality of life as we know it. Not enough people in this country realize how important it is to protect our valuable resources from potential croprate rape, such is the case here. (03/31/11)

Kathryn Siegel: I fully support this petition. Please add my name to the list and let me know if there is anything else I can do. Sincerely, Kathryn Siegel 551 St. Clarens Ave. Toronto, ON M6H3W6 (04/01/11)

Dan GOldman: I fully support this petition (04/03/11)

Craig A Thomson: I am strongly opposed to the development of this quarry. At a time when clean potable water has been identified as a precious, yet declining resource, I find it incomprehensible that a project of this scale and in this location is even being considered. Good land to grow food is becoming increasingly scarce. Prices are rising and it is going to become increasingly difficult to feed our growing population. This is a natural resource we must maintain. The long term consequences are significant. STOP THIS DEVELOPMENT. (04/04/11)

JILL KELSALL: I fully support this petition and wonder, what is the meaning of UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve - a designation afforded to lands in this area - if not to protect them from large scale industrial development of this kind? (04/04/11)

Michael McCarthy: I support this petition (04/05/11)

Blair F: I fully support this petition! (04/05/11)

janet grand: I fully support this petition - when will the "powers that be" understand and accept that we need to feed ourselves, and that development cannot go on forever. A quarry of this size, in this location, is completely unacceptable (04/05/11)

Teresa Comeau: I fully support this petition opposing this development. When are we ever going to learn that what we do affects so much. (04/06/11)

Joe and Cheryl O'Dwyer: We agree and are in support of NDACT to halt the permit of any quarry on this very sacred land. (04/08/11)

Taylor McNeil: I am in full support of this petition. (04/08/11)

Kim Hornby: I am in full support of this petition. I am tired of the loss of prime agricultural/recreational land in the interest of commercial endeavours. This will result in an immediate and long lasting impact to the natural surroundings which is unwarranted and unwanted by citizens (04/09/11)

C Sikkes: I am strongly opposed to this prime agricultural land being used as a gravel source. (04/10/11)

Karin Demerling: I grew up in this area and feel that this is not a good idea. This area is significant as headwaters for many water courses and the effects along all river areas is huge. We need to protect our water sources for ourselves as when they are gone, they are gone forever. Please stop this application. (04/10/11)

katharine Vansittart: I fully support the petition to oppose the open pit limestone mining or any other industrial aggregate extraction proposal in Mulmur / Melancthon Townships. We can not afford to risk polluting and wasting the essential waters of this region, nor should we even contemplate losing so much invaluable high quality soil and agricultural land. Not too mention the heartbreak and financial hardship such a project would bring to the denizens of this community. (04/11/11)

Blaine van Bruggen: Please let it be known that I oppose the proposed mega quarry. Follow the progress of the opposition on facebook (www.facebook.com/no.mega.quarry) (04/12/11)

Doug Minett: I fully support the petition. It is pretty obvious that this monster quarry has not received the due diligence that is required to protect the common good. Unanswerable questions on serious issues should be interpreted by regulatory authorities as sufficient reason to halt this project indefinitely. (04/12/11)

Steve Kriedemann: This seems like this company has been lying and playing dirty all along! Make them grow potatoes or move on out! (04/12/11)

Ian Gray: The Highland application indicates 70 people employed by their farming operations and they expect the quarry operations will employee 450, suggesting a strong economic case. This is insulting to those who currently and those past generations that have cultivated these lands to produce the fundamental essence of any economy - food! Viable northern Ontario economic development has always been a provincial government priority. 450 jobs for the next 50 - 100 years (often the life of a quarry) would be an excellent industry for this region. (04/13/11)

Bette Harvey: I totally support this petition. We need to keep our pristine agricultural land and water for generations to come. Bette Harvey (Apr15/11) (04/15/11)

Willi Platzer: It is so sad that our elected politicians are being misled by the Highland companies. They don't have the ability to asess applications of this magnitute. Who will be able to foresee the effects of such a massive quarry. There is no "specialist" alive today, that is able to predict the outcome. Why allow such "money-hungry" people to ruin the future for so many people in the name of "the mighty $$$$-business". I settled here more than twenty years ago in the hope to have a peaceful retirement and such. It is not NDACT that is spreading misinformation - it is the Highland company and its croony that is feeding us BS without sound information. I am so much against this proposal of a quarry. Wilhelm Platzer, Horning's Mills. (04/15/11)

Casey Franklin: I just read a letter to the editor in Wellington Advertiser about this issue. I am against the quarry. I am against all quarries in general, and particularly one of this size. We should not be extracting below the water table. We have some of the best groundwater in the world here in Ontario and we seem to have lots of it. Maybe too much because we really take it for granted alot of the time. We should not be disturbing the natual landscape of this or any area. We should not be destroying any more of our old farm houses and barns. This is our heritage. This where we come from. Our ancesters built all of this. Is this what we want to give to our grandchildren, a big hole in the ground? What will they think of us? We should not be letting anyone, especially an American company, come here and screw with our beautiful historic Ontario farm houses or this fantastic natural beauty of Mulmur Hills or the Niagara Escarpment. (04/15/11)

Betsy Ingram: For years we searched for the right piece of land, finally settling on 51 acres on the Prince of Whales Road. We researched what could and could not be done on these 51 acres, and were pleased that mega farms were not allowed within the by-laws If there are percentage restrictions for animals per acre because of water contamination, then why would this application even be considered? To have these same reasoning’s not applied to the aggregate product is unconscionable. Contamination is imminent! (04/16/11)

Beverly Dawkins : We must stop this quarry and protect our water aquifers and thereby our enviroment & future. (04/17/11)

Beverly Dawkins : We must stop this quarry and protect our water aquifers and thereby our enviroment & future. (04/17/11)

A. Thede: Preservation of the fresh water supply is paramount to the future. Is the Highland company going to compensate the people locally or across southern Ontario if the clean water supply is ruined? I doubt they plan to. Economically, it is foolish short term thinking to believe the region is better off with what may be only a twenty to twenty-five year limestone extraction verses the (hopefully) infinite over time economic value from the agriculture, wood products, local business, and whatever. (04/17/11)

Jim Allodi: I am opposed to both the short-sighted project of mining below the water table. (04/17/11)

Kristy Simpson: I oppose this quarry. (04/18/11)

Lois Davidson: I live in Peterborough, Ontario, and I object to this project on principle - it is allowing the destruction of arable land forever, in an area where such land is a much more valuable resource than quarried stone. The process for permitting this is flawed and has been manipulated without adequate research or consultation. It should not be allowed to proceed in this location. Lois Davidson 496 Homewood Ave. Peterborough K9H 2N3 (04/18/11)

Suzanne Steenkist: I oppose this Open pit quarry due to the destruction of Farmland, the negative impact it will have on ground water, wild life and rural business's. It is important for Canada to protect it's farming industries, family run farms on a local level. This mega Quarry will not benefit Ontarians in the short or long run. (04/18/11)

Debbie Alves: I fully support this petition. (04/18/11)

Jerry Libryk: I fully support ndact in their quest to stop highlands company to establish a limestone quarry Melancthon and Mulmur Townships. I live in clearview township which is next door. Let us do whatever we can to stop this raping or our landscape!!! (04/18/11)

Jocelyn Burke: As a native of Horning's Mills, I am in full support of NDACT and this petition. I want to thank all my neighbours who are standing up for what is right, for searching out the truth, and for strongly holding your ground when your farm is being surrounded. Thank you, I'm fighting this for your great-great-grandchildren as well as my own. (04/18/11)

Jocelyn Burke: 302-162 Broadway Ave. Orangeville, ON. L9W 1K3 (04/18/11)

Karyn Letendre: STOP! (04/19/11)

Brittany Hilts: I am in full support of this petition and NDACT. (04/19/11)

Kathy White: I strongly support this petition! (04/19/11)

John Warren: Something is rotten in the County of North Dufferin. (04/19/11)

France Young: I fully support this petition to disallow the quarry in this township. (04/20/11)

Kathie Keefe: I fully support this petition. I am a Unitarian living in Kitchener. This proposed quarry concerns me with respect to the quantity and quality of the future water supply from the Grand River for the city of Kitchener/ Waterloo and other cities and towns on the river. I am also concerned because there is a Unitarian Church camp a few kilometers from the site of the proposed quarry that has a spring-fed pond for swimming and this may well disappear. (04/20/11)

Jay Macpherson (prof.): I strongly believe that we need agricultural land and clean water--shrinking resources in the present world--more than we need mined limestone aggregate. (04/21/11)

V. French: We need arable land and clean water to feed our growing population. We do NOT need to destroy another large section of valuable farm land and pollute underlying water tables that service a huge area, or kill off thousands of creatures that live there. This is a no-brainer. As a voting, tax paying Canadian, I am very angry that this is even being considered. Have we not learned from past experience? Do not allow corporate greed to destroy the world that supports us. (04/21/11)

Lisa Kemerer: I strongly oppose this variance in the use of land! (04/21/11)

sarah merry: stop the quarry (04/21/11)

Lisa Witham: i am against this mega quarry and the affects it will have on food an water. you can not eat or drink dirt. (04/21/11)

PJ Peterson: Water water everywhere and not a drop to drink...... (04/21/11)

Hugh & Carol Hamp: We support the above petition as long time residents of Horning Mills. We also urge every elected official in this area and the many areas that will be affected by this huge project to get on board and fight this invasion of our properties and rights to have the LAND & WATER decimated for the profit of NON-RESIDENT HEDGE FUND investors. If it was ever time for our governments of all levels to show they care, now it the time. (04/21/11)

Amy Stewart: I fully agree with Carl. If we don't want this to happen, we need to take action - NOW! More people are finally starting to realize what a disaster this quarry will be - have your voices heard before it is too late!!! I fully support this petition and all that NDACT has done, and continues to do in fighting for the good of our land. (04/21/11)

Amy Stewart: I fully support this petition and NDACT. (04/21/11)

Ted Clark: I fully support this petition, we need your assistance to save the valuable water and farming landing. It is a valuable resource which cannot be replaced once destroyed. (04/21/11)

gail prussky: I fully support this petition. Greed and money cannot over-ride the future of our natural resources. (04/21/11)

Scott & Gillian Hamp: We go to the mail box & read the local paper. Half page adds and junk mail propaganda that fills our mailbox. . So much BS and misinformation from so called experts. You can pay the so called experts who call themselves engineers to say anything you wish when you pay them enough money. You don't have to be an engineer to realize the toll on the land & environment. The Quarry group is scared, their PR is proof, and they need to be as more of the local citizens wake up to this proposed disaster. The jobs, the same idiot truck drivers that live in Toronto, not locals, and don't bother to stop at the stop light at 24 & 17. So folk we only get one chance to protect ourselves and our grandchildren from these vultures. As citizens we elect our government, so David & Sylvia lets have some leadership in stopping this nonsense. Your jobs will depend on this too. (04/21/11)

Sherrie Halliday: Stop this massive mistake before it's too late. NO QUARRY!!!! (04/21/11)

Dyson Forbes: say NO to the quarry that will damage the environment around my farm and our pristine drinking water. (04/21/11)

Vittoria Peirce: Dear Mayor and Council Members, I am completely opposed to this quarry. Please stop it before it is too late. Do not give in to big business raping our precious resources for profit. (04/21/11)

Caroline Banz: I fully support the work of the NDACT and this petition. After the recent push to "buy local food" and the "100 mile diet", we now are turning prime agricultural land into an open pit. What exactly are our elected officials doing about this???? (04/21/11)

Alanna Morgan: Please add my name to your petition against Highland Companies proposal to strip increasingly scarce farmland for a limestone quarry. It is an appalling proposal. (04/21/11)

Ernest Kalwa: Fully in support of this Petition to STOP the Mega QUARRY! (04/21/11)

Carrie James: I fully support this petition and NDACT in its efforts to stop development of this quarry. I am, particularly, concerned about the effect this quarry will have on the water table and aquifers that have their sources here. I am also opposed to the loss of prime agricultural land. The deceit these developers have demonstrated is a clear indication that will take what they can and leave behind an ugly environmental mess. (04/21/11)

Jana Thompson: I am totally against having this Quarry coming to this county!! I am afraid for my family the possiable health problems they may have from this quarry I am all for this petition for hopefully it will work and they stop the quarry!! (04/21/11)

Donna Baylis: This mega-quarry is a mega-mistake -- 2,316 acres, 200 feet deep, pumping 600,000,000 litres of water into recharging wells every day for perpetuity. At the headwaters of 5 major rivers (Pine, Saugeen, Beaver, Nottawasaga, Grand). This quarry is bad news. (04/21/11)

April Dickin: I object to the proposed quarry due to multiple concerns pertaining to negative environmental impact. Please do NOT proceed with the Melancton quarry. (04/21/11)

K.Thompson: This megaquarry will be a travesty. It will permanently, PERMANENTLY damage the flow of fresh water which will be an essential problem for upcoming generations. If this megaquarry goes ahead, it should be considered to be a verifiable CRIME warranting litigation, based in many provable facts supporting the irreparable damage it will cause. When will big business see beyond immediate profit grabbing and consider long term effects of their wreckless actions? I am in full support of this petition. (04/21/11)

Rita Watermann: I do not live in this area but I believe the proposed quarry will negatively affect all of Ontario. We need to protect our precious farmland and water resources. (04/21/11)

Bethany Lee: I am fully in agreement with the statements of this petition. (04/21/11)

Regina Sheere: Please do not destroy this pristine landscape. I totally agree with all the wording in this petition and I urge you to do what is right. Sincerely Regina Sheere (04/21/11)

Jennifer Horner: Very against this quarry for so many reasons. (04/21/11)

Catherine Barr: Our water is a precious resource and any business that messes with something as fragile as the Headwaters has no business in Dufferin County. I do not believe that this quarry would have no impact on the Headwaters, 600million gallons is an amount beyond my imagination and how Highland can say they can move this without affecting the groundwater or the flow if the rivers is ridiculous. STOP the Americans from destroying our land. (04/21/11)

MKarasz: I am in full support of this petition. (04/21/11)

Silvana Borgatti: The echo of this announced disaster has reached Italy too. I am a high school teacher in Bologna and my students are shocked at the madness of the Melancthon megaquarry project. I fully support the fight of the locals affected and the 5-day-walk led by Danny Beaton. (04/22/11)

Robert Davey: What are they thinking? Does every politician out there have a deathwish? I am beginning to think that a bunch of stiffs is not a metaphor any more! (04/22/11)

Jennifer Base: I fully support the petition, the loss of prime farming land, the water, the wildlife and the future of our area is staggering. The increase of pollution from the trucks barreling down our highways and the loss of trees protecting us from this type of pollution will be felt by all. Can someone tell me what all this gravel is to be used for? Is it a local project? (04/22/11)

Jennifer Pratt: Everyone needs to be concerned about this pit! I fully support the actions to stop it's development!, Orangeville, Ontario (04/22/11)

Natasha Hoecke: I fully support this petition. (04/22/11)

Maria Jagodkin: I fully support this petition. NO QUARRY ! (04/22/11)

Sharon Deugo: I fully support this petition. (04/22/11)

Maria Kasstan: You can only dig out those bloody rocks once; you can dig up potatoes and onions every year for generations to come IF you take care of the land. (04/22/11)

DDavis: I only became aware of this issue which affects so much of Ontario within the last few days. I strongly object to having a quarry of this magnitude built on prime farmland. It seems obvious that much more time and input is necessary. Why would there be such a rush to decide something which impacts so many people? (04/22/11)

Ulla Weimann: I fully support the petition. (04/22/11)

Ken Bauerle: Everybodyt please help stop this mindless idea (04/22/11)

Tammy Parise: I support this these people need to get the hell out of here and never comeback (04/22/11)

P. Jolie Simpson: Please stop the Highland Company for committing this atrocity to OUR land and water table. Please protect MY country, Canada, from American capitalist takeover by companies who have no concern for Canadians or our natural resources or future. 89 Isabella Street, PH-4, Toronto, ON M4Y 1N8 (04/22/11)

W.G. Boddy: I fully support this petition. (04/23/11)

Charlene Sanche: I have recently become aware of the extent and seriousness of allowing the quarry proposal to go through. I am very concerned about the impact on our water,agriculture and noise. My concern it not just for the impact it will have on our communities now but what about our children. This might sound good to some people now but what about ten years from now or twenty when we start to see the ill effects and it is too late. (04/23/11)

Jennifer Main: I fully support this petition. The quarry is not a sustainable use of the land and its impacts will be far reaching. Decisions should be based on long-term benefits and not short-term gain. (04/23/11)

Deborah Rapini: I fully support the petition against the Highland Companies Quarry in Melancthon. My ancestors settled, farmed and raised their families in the Shelburne area. We need to do everything possible to protect the land and water, our farmers and our food supply in Ontario and across Canada. (04/23/11)

Lise Brisebois: This quarry should not be allowed. Our governments (at ALL levels) should stand up in unison to stop this. We elect these individuals to protect our rights, our childrens' and thier future generations against individuals that would otherwise distroy our environment and the habitats in order to make a profit. The water table, fauna, flora sustaining us has to be protected ! If not by us, by who.... Let our voices join in a clear NO to this outragous abuse. Lise Brisebois (04/23/11)

Lise Brisebois: This quarry should not be allowed. Our governments (at ALL levels) should stand up in unison to stop this. We elect these individuals to protect our rights, our childrens' and thier future generations against individuals that would otherwise distroy our environment and the habitats in order to make a profit. The water table, fauna, flora sustaining us has to be protected ! If not by us, by who.... Let our voices join in a clear NO to this outragous abuse. Lise Brisebois (04/23/11)

Tim Stevens: Agricultural land is designated such, because it is a great place to grow what we need to survive. Growing up I saw acre upon acre of orchards wiped out and made into building lots in the Grimsby/Niagara Region. They HAVE to keep the farmland they have left to feed the ever increasing population. The Highland company can find what they need in many other less productive areas. Places that are the very best agricultural lands in the province, in the country, need to be preserved!! (04/24/11)

Melodie Mason: I support this petition. (04/24/11)

Tim Beattie: As a resident of Guelph and Mono Township i have grave concerns over this proposed mass destruction of land and water. There is no need for something this devastating to the people and environment. (04/25/11)

Mark Cornfield: I fully support this petition. (04/25/11)

Franziska Nonnenmann: There must be an environmental assessment done for any industrial project like the proposed quarry, especially for one as large as the proposal by the Boston based, Highland Companies, which would become one of the larges quarry mines in Canada, how can our governments as this day and age let this sort of thing happen, I am outraged (04/25/11)

Cathy Whitcombe: I support this petition to oppose the Highlands Mega Quarry in Melancthon. (04/25/11)

Liz MacInnis: I support this petition -- keep this land in the hands of the farmers! (04/25/11)

John Dondertman: As a resident of Mulmur I don't think I should have to fight a large scale open mine in prime farm land. All the residents and townships should be able to lay claim to the land and it's usage. Allowing a 6000 area gravel pit to operate in this area is wrong. The plan to mine this area has no benefit for the future of the local and far reaching communities. STOP THE QUARRY (04/25/11)

Amanda Slack: I fully support this petition. It is truly sad that our prime agricultural land and heritage is being destroyed for profit by a US company! (04/25/11)

Janet Pelley: We can't eat gravel. I think it's a real travesty that an environmental assessment is not required for a quarry. (04/25/11)

Francves Oommen: Hi, I am writing from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I used to live in Ontario. I fully support you. Here we are in partnership with First Nations working together to halt oil and gas exploration and extraction (fracking) in our rural area. (04/25/11)

Randall Coryell: I am stunned and appalled at the proposal by Highland Companies, an American company fronted by Canadian John Lowndes, to excavate limestone in Melancthon Township. This company is not to be trusted. It has quietly purchased 8500 acres of land under the guise of growing potatoes while purchasing rail right of way to Owen Sound, obviously to export aggregate from this agricultural land. These 8500 acres are the headwaters of the Grand, Credit and Nottawasaga rivers, an invaluable resource for Southern Ontario. Why are our elected representatives not standing up to this outrage, the unconscionable actions of a corporation that has profit as its sole motivation for activity? When will our elected officials act in the best interests of the citizens they have been asked to represent? Randall Coryell Elora Ontario (04/25/11)

Carol McCann: Just heard the interview on CBC As it Happens (25 Apr 2011) concerning this issue, and I am deeply concerned about the environmental impact of this proposed quarry, let alone the apparent deception of Highlands in purchasing this land. I fully support the NDACT and CAUSE efforts to stop this rapacious development. (04/25/11)

Peter Aliferis: HOW WILL THIS MAKE OUR COMMUNITY BETTER AND IMPROVE OUR QUALITY OF LIFE? STOP DESTROYING OUR COMMUNITY AND OUR FOOD AND WATER. STOP THE MEGA QUARRY (04/26/11)

Neil Epstein: Stop the quarry. We purchase a farm on 124 in simcoe county 2 years ago on the niagra escarpment. It is the most beautiful part if our province, and it will be ruined if the quarry goes through. (04/26/11)

Stacey Saunders: I fully support this petition! (04/26/11)

Peggy Aliferis: Protect our most precious natural resource - our clean water supply! Stop the mega quarry! (04/26/11)

Laurie Mutton: Although I am not a resident of North Dufferin County, I am a concerned resident of Ontario and wish to add my voice to those in opposition to this serious threat to the local environment and precious natural resources of North Dufferin County and beyond. The importance of a safe and abundant water supply cannot be understated nor can the need to protect our precious farmland. We all, including and ESPECIALLY our politicians, who are given the responsibility by us to make important decisions such as this on our behalf, must think seriously about the long-term consequences of our decisions and our actions (or inactions, as the case may be), not just about any potential short-term economic benefit related to such decisions. To allow a company that bought up land under the pretense of continuing to farm it, to get away with such deception and this destructive plan for the land would be a terrible injustice to the local residents, and a huge disappointment to all who care about where our food comes from and the safety and security of our water supply. I am strongly opposed to the development of this quarry and fully support this petition. STOP THIS QUARRY. Laurie Mutton, RR5 Chatsworth, Ontario N0H 1G0 (04/26/11)

John Willson: Richmond Hill, ON (04/26/11)

Richard Bodini: This is the wrong place for such a project. It should be stopped. The provincial government had better step up this time! They failed the people of Holland Marsh with a peaker plant. This project would be unbelievable! (04/26/11)

Beate Ziegert: I fully agree with the petition. Highland Company should not be allowed to destroy the pristine agricultural land in the area 100 km north of Toronto. It is disgraceful how they have cheated the people who live there and the people of Toronto who want to go there on a vacation. B. Ziegert (04/26/11)

Jack Carleton: To value lime stone and gravel above farmland is nothing but pure greed and Dalton Mcginty has the power to stop this. But I fear he has the ignorance and stupidity of not thinking or worrying about future generations. Especially in his own family. (04/26/11)

giuseppe anile: stop this now (04/26/11)

Taylor Marie Milton: I fully support this petition!!! (04/26/11)

Billie Mintz: I support this petition - is this the petition? (04/26/11)

Sherry Dion: I fully support this petition. (04/26/11)

dave billyard: I support this petition 100 percent. (04/26/11)

Amie Presley: We need to respect what we live on. (04/26/11)

Therese Morgan: In full support of this petition. Shocked to hear of the methods of land procurement, what is happening to the architectural history and ecology of the area, the proposed size of the quarry, the environmental damage that will result, etc. This quarry development must be stopped! (04/26/11)

Kim Eadie: We need to preserve agricultural land and protect natural waterways. If you look at what is happening in the world there will be a time when we will need to get our food locally. Land, forest, water provide basic needs. Don't ruin our tomorrows for a pot of gold today. (04/26/11)

D Withrow: I support this petition. (04/26/11)

Jane Sloan: I am happy to sign this petition. I think it is criminal to allow something like this to pass. When will we learn!!! When all of our natural resources are gone... (04/26/11)

Leah Hollinsworth: Thank you for your work to help stop this atrocity from happening. Save our water, save our lives! (04/26/11)

Lyn Rose: I fully support this petition. Please don not allow this to go through. It would be a travesty. (04/26/11)

Kathy & Greg Whitley: We fully support the intentions of NDACT in stopping the proposed quarry. We live 'below' and downstream and fear the negative impact such a quarry will have on the area we chose to call home! (04/26/11)

Sara Robles: i fully support this petition (04/26/11)

Andrew Donovan: We, the people, will defeat the multinational from destroying our land. Dufferin-Caledon united! (04/26/11)

Amy Tigani: Opposed to this development. (04/26/11)

Hobo Wally: Hobo Wally sings Stop the mega quarry!! look for it on youtube (04/27/11)

Zita Harper: This is one of the most beautiful and precious landscapes in Ontario. The proposed Highland Quarry is an abomination which should be opposed by all Canadians who consider themselves respectful of land, water, air and wildlife. (04/27/11)

Cara Armishaw: Our children have no hope if these shenanigans continue. Let's not make the same mistake our parents and their parents made. We can do better. (04/27/11)

Rob Harris: I fully support this petition. This must not happen. The people must have a say in projects that have potential to cause vast harm. (04/27/11)

Catherine Bush: I'm in Toronto but fully support this petition to stop the mega-quarry, protect the headwaters, and sustain agricultural use of this land. (04/27/11)

Joan dempsey: I agree with this petition (04/27/11)

Stacey Sorokowsky: The continuing degradation and destruction of our fragile wetlands and agricultural areas cannot continue unchecked like this!! WE must all work together to preserve what little wildlife, famlands & environmentally sensitive areas we have left!! (04/27/11)

Megan Nicholson: I support this petition. (04/27/11)

David Cumming: Makes you wonder if other such acquisitions are taking place. Scary. I am in full support of the preservation of our precious natural resources and ecosystems. (04/27/11)

Portia Corman: I am vehemently against this. It seems unreal that it's even a possibility. This will be the focus of my questions to those who show up at my door running in this Federal election. (04/27/11)

Linda Borland-Fitzgerald: I fully support the intention of this petition to stop the rape of this land, the water and wildlife by big business. (04/27/11)

ted livermore: I can,t believe in this age of enviromental concern this is going to be allowed to happen.Open pit mining in shelburne ontario,and our goverment couldn,t care less. (04/28/11)

Michelle Binette: I am in agreement with this petition. (04/28/11)

Tina Soper: I am 100% supporting this petition to stop the Melancthon Mega Quarry Project. This project will negatively impact all of Southern Ontario. (04/29/11)

Jamie Harris Hyde: I fully support this petition! Thanks. (04/29/11)

Karen Drevininkas: I moved here for the beauty, nature, clean air and water. Please listen to the people not big coporations as once the damage is done, it's done. (04/29/11)

Karen Cheeseman: I'm "next door' in Grey County and have been seriously about water issues in this area for years. This not good for anybody! (04/29/11)

M. Dennis: I fully support the petition. Canada, & particularly Ontario, is fast loosing it's food security. With increasing costs of oil & transportation locally grown food will finally become profitable to produce. Our society will not be able to pay the price of imported food. Valuable limestone should not be wasted in the fashion that allows it to be used for road/rail beds & backfill. There are many other sources for these applications. This wasteful project must be stopped. (04/29/11)

Don Mitton: Fully in support of the petition. (04/29/11)

Donna Deneault: I live in Toronto, but this mega quarry has me very worried. When I read that the drinking water for over one million Ontarians was going to be affected, I knew we all need to help. It is incomprehensible, to think that this company is going to pump 600 million litres of precious water everyday forever. When I also learned that under ON law, this company does not have to do an environmental assessment, I could not believe it. How could such a law have ever been passed? We need to protect the water. It is our human right. Also, the fact that the soil in this area is so rare is another big reason to halt this quarry at once. I am going to write to McGuinty and ask for a reprieve. I will continue to write letters and hopefully attend your next rally. Best Wishes. (04/30/11)

Daniel Lei: I fully support this petition. With all the efforts trying to preserve our environment all these years, a mega quarry project cannot happen here. Of course the corporation promised that they will take utmost care not to damage our water, however, if that happens, how good is their promises? Remember, once the damage is done, we all won't live long enough to see it heals. Please don't make the same mistake again. Money could be replaced, our damaged environment cannot. (04/30/11)

rosario mafra: I want to thank-you for speaking for me, I totally agree that this beautiful land should not be disturbed.I also DO NO TRUST those people from the Highland comp. as far I been reading they are very sneeky and disonest people, as for the CD and their advertising I put everything in the mailbox to be returned to sender. Thank-you again. Rosario (04/30/11)

Marie B.Deane: I am totally opposed to the development of a quarry on these lands. (05/01/11)

Heidi Eisenhauer: I strongly oppose any agragate permits in this aquifer and biospher. (05/02/11)

Kyle Williams: I live in North Bay, Ontario, and I am strongly opposed to the destruction of this farmland. For a country that is supposed to be going "green" this is certainly not a step in the right direction. Everyone knows the consequences if we continue to let this happen to our environment. Money won't matter when there is nothing left to destroy. (05/02/11)

John Van Schepen: I strongly support NDACT in it's opposition to Highland and the development of this Mega-Pit (05/04/11)

Meera Drennan: I became aware of this from the report on the CBC. I feel very concerned. I am strongly opposed to this project. It has very short term gains with long term consequences. There needs at the very least for scientific research to be conducted not only at the site, but also downstream of these major rivers. This quarry should not be built for the sake of our water quality and supply. I live in Guelph which would be one of the many communities near and possibly impacted by this huge and devastating project. (05/05/11)

Aimee Large: I support this petition (05/06/11)

Laura Chagnon: This must be stopped, please listen to the people who live in this area and consider the multitude of negative effects this is likely to have. (05/06/11)

Scott Crameer: More sickening corporate greed, This is the peoples land, this horror show must be stopped. (05/06/11)

steph poirier: I support this petition. (05/08/11)

Chris Watts: Where is the provincial government on this crazy plan? I haven't heard anything about a full environmental assessment being conducted or even requested. Shame on you, Dalt! I live in Shelburne and do not want to drink Frankenwater. Adaquate water may simply no longer be available.The entire watershed of the Grand and Nottawasaga Rivers and all their tributaries will be affected by this single enterprise. Will Highland compensate me for our loss of property value?When they're done they'll leave a 2,300 acre hole in the ground. Will they "reclaim" it? Not likely...even the disused Esso gas station at Airport road and Hwy 89 sits there, an eyesore and a sign of corporations' disregard for the environment. This will be no different; slick lawyers will look after them. Please contact me to let me know what kind of help you need from me. I write well and am an effective communicator. Thanks! (05/09/11)

Aaron Friend Lettner: I fully support action against this quarry. Is there no way to challenge Highland on the grounds of deliberate misrepresentation? (05/09/11)

Gary Heilimo : I fully support this petition! Everett, On May 9, 2011 (05/09/11)

Kris Heilimo: I fully support this petition. (05/09/11)

Darlene Cudney : I agree 100% with this petition. We have to be concerned. (05/09/11)

Jesse Foster: I Strongly disapprove of the proposed use of land for a quarry. Ontario is well know for it's prime top soil and this mega project adds insult to injury in a time when the entire world is concerned about where the nutrient rich food of the future will come from. It certainly wont be from an empty pit or from the limestone extracted well below our pristine water tables. PLEASE, please STOP THE QUARRY. (05/09/11)

Shannon Evans: This must be stopped. I am in complete support of this petition. (05/10/11)

Cathy Jacobsen: I agree and with this petition and am totally opposed to anything that affects the aquifer. (05/11/11)

Laura Geddes: I do not support movement for this quarry whatsoever. I am young, and even though I am just starting out my job in the media..I will do EVERYTHING I can to stop this. This idea disgusts me. (05/11/11)

Spencer Bilodeau: This "development" is absolutely outrageous! I fully support this petition! (05/11/11)

Erin Butler: i just learned of this, and it's one of the saddest, most disturbing things i can imagine. when are people going to realize there is only one Earth... and we (they) are destroying it :( (05/12/11)

Terry Herckenrath: I'm appalled at the thought of the destruction of our renewable natural resources and the effect on the many species of wildlife in this area, including many endangered species. Please stop this insanity before it is too late. (05/12/11)

Chip Yarwood: We simply must fight this to the end my friends .Since when does anyone including American controlled puppet companies like Highland have a god given right to profit at the cost of the environment and our childrens future,What kind of creatures are these people like Dahnnier and how do they manage to sleep at night. They are burning down farms so there is no standing trace of the rich history of family farming left to see so no one will care or know whats been lost forever but they are WRONG !We do in fact CARE a LOT and a LOT of us CARE. Say No to this application and save our future. We CAN stop it. sincerely Chip Yarwood. (05/13/11)

Martha Munroe: I would like to petition this. No Quarry! Martha Munroe marthamunroe@gmail.com 330 Bartlett St, Toronto, On M6H 3G7 (05/13/11)

Alex Harper: This pit has to be stopped. It is outrageous that a company like this can misrepresent itself in such a manner a continue with this disastrous project for our environment. (05/14/11)

Justin Reist: I support the NDACT 100% (05/15/11)

Carolyn Harris: The government needs to put stakeholders above corporations. DON'T FAVOUR QUARRIES OVER PEOPLE! The environmental devastation this quarry will cause is irrevocable. Is this the legacy we want to leave for the future? (05/16/11)

Steve Of the Hore Clan: I am against the quarry! (05/16/11)

Sarah Martel: I am against a mega quarry in the heart of ontario. Drinking water will be damaged and ecosystems destroyed. NO (05/16/11)

KKo: Being a city dweller involved in food security and urban agriculture, I fully appreciate the importance and gravity no letting this quarry happen. The impact will affect all of us in Ontario and we need to get the word out! (05/17/11)

ted livermore : Our goverment will allow this company to ruin the greatest wild trout stream in southern ontario without a care,i thought we lived in a time of enviromental concern.Maybe highland will stock some catfish in the nottawasaga after they turn it into a warmwater souphole. (05/17/11)

Mona Gudjurgis: please stop the mega quarry (05/17/11)

Sarah McSweeney: STOP the QUARRY!!! (05/17/11)

miguel sa : Stop this quarry and the globalization of our beautfiul nation (05/17/11)

Mercedes Edwards : ... (05/17/11)

Sandra Chater: This is DISPICABLE. IT CAN NOT HAPPEN. Pay attention and STOP this RAPE of our country. (05/17/11)

Yvonne Conway: We currently live in Mansfield over looking the Niagara Escarpment. However we used to lown a motel in Hockley.How is it that we were not allowed to cut down a tree or change the colour of our roof when we owned that land as it was within the Niagara Escarpment? And when we tried to sell, what we thought was a commercial property we were told it could only be sold for as is commercial use and not changed into any other type of operation. Because of this we had to turn down several viable offers and we lost our shirts when we finally sold and walked away with almost nothing in our pockets!!!! Now we have sunk everything we own into our nice country home and this threatens to destroy our water and the value of our property. HOW HOW HOW is this fair that this huge AMERICAN conglomerate can bully their way in and even contemplate what they plan to do???? I want to know what we can do to help shut this down??? PLEASE contact us! Our whole family is willing to help in any small way. Sincerely Richard and Yvonne Conway (705) 435-6230 (05/17/11)

Mark Breadner: I fully support this petition. If our government supports the development of this quarry it will be no different than committing genocide on it's own people and a massive crime against mother nature and the universe. I cannot, and will not allow this to happen and am willing to stake my life to make this never ever take place! (05/17/11)

Peter Yan: I am in full support of NDACT and this blog to stop the quarry. Peter Yan
(04/03/11)

Katarina Zoricic: I am in agreement with this petition and want to do anything I can to help. Please contact me via email and let me know. (05/18/11)

Katarina Zoricic: Although I reside at 111 Warwood Road, Etobicoke ON M9B 5B6, I am in Collingwood and other parts of Dufferin County every weekend. It is my second home. I want to help stop this is any way I can (05/18/11)

mark baswick: This proposed quarry is an outrage and insult to all good citizens. Shame on our government for their complete lack of stewardship and on the corporation for such wanton and reckless greed. What kind of legacy is this for our grandchildren? Shame! (05/19/11)

Diane Shears: As a city dweller and locavore, I am entirely dependent on our local farms for survival. Farmers feed cities! (05/20/11)

Susan Bain: I fully support this petition. This land assembly has occurred in an area that hosts the most prime agricultural and potato crop specialty soils in our province. It makes no sense to destroy such productive land in order to provide profits for shareholders in an American, or any other company. What will we sell off next? Our children, perhaps? (05/20/11)

Steve Blogger: I am against the clearing of the highlands (05/23/11)

John Holt: I definitely support the petition. Putting any kind of quarrying operation on this land would be a disgrace ecologically, politically, and ethically. (05/24/11)

Laura Baker: In full support of this petition. Having just travelled through this area on our way to a trade show to support the equine community, I was taken aback by the beauty and vastness of these farm lands. It is obvious that the long term stewards of these lands have done a fantastic job of protecting and using these lands in harmony with what nature intended. If the vast majority of these people do not want this project to continue then the politicians must be held accountable and this project stopped. (05/24/11)

Barb Jaques: I strongly support this petition and the preservation of this land. When are we going to stop giving the money mongers their way and start to pay attention to what truly matters. It's hard to remain hopeful in these times when money seems to be the only thing that speaks. (05/24/11)

JILL KELSALL: I whole heartedly endorse this petition and will try to help in whatever way I can to further the opposition to this frankly frightening quarry. (05/24/11)

Paul McNairn: It seems everywhere you turn these days there is an eye sore of a gravel pit. I live in Amaranth Township on the Grand River. I am an avid hunter, fisherman and enjoy living in the country. I'm afraid that this proposed gravel pit is going to have a detrimental impact on farming, wildlife and water supply. Some big companies move in to build and add to an area, here we have one that is going to destroy and take away leaving, what every other gravel pit leaves behind...a big hole. I am opposed to the Highlands Company proposed gravel pit! It brings nothing of value to our community. (05/25/11)

Aaron MacDonald: Aaron MacDonald aar.macdonald@gmail.com 52 Hawthorne Road, Orangeville, ON Please stop this quarry! (05/26/11)

Liz Simpson: from Ottawa.... fully support this petition (05/26/11)

paula bilz: I fully support this petition. 05/27/11 (05/27/11)

Kathleen Mackintosh: I support this petition. Save our farm land - without it we all go hungry! (05/27/11)

Lainie Knox: "The real "haves" are they who can acquire freedom, self-confidence and even riches without depriving others of them." -eric hoffer(1902-1983) (05/27/11)

heather de van der schueren: To allow this quarry to proceed would be a crime against the land, the people and the environment of Ontario. Heather de van der Schueren, Flesherton, Ontario (05/27/11)

Maryanne LaBrash: IF THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT PERMITS THIS TRAVESTY, THE PEOPLE OF ONTARIO WILL NEITHER FORGIVE NOR FORGET!! (05/27/11)

Melissa Roe: I fully support this petition to stop the destruction of prime agricultural land and endangered water sources for rivers that feed directly into my own town -- including Grand River. I stand with the people of North Dumfries and the farmers whose livelihoods will be lost. (05/27/11)

Chris Pilgrim: I live in the UK and I fully support this petition. If there is anything practical I can do to help please contact me at the email i provided. God bless. (05/27/11)

Shelley Goetze O'Connor: The proposed Melanchton Mega Quarry, 120km northwest of Toronto, in some of the most prime agricultural land in Ontario IS WRONG!!!. Such an ill thought out plan. When will the consuming and the GREED for money STOP. This is the wrong place, so very very WRONG. Common sense, conscience, sensibility, respect...I fear are dissappearing in our world. I FULLY support this petition. (05/27/11)

Leslie Summers deLuca: I am in support of this petition. Proposals of this nature should certainly be required to undergo a full environmental assessment. I am in favour of preserving our Ontarian agricultural land. (05/29/11)

lisa chandler: it would be such a lose for the entire surrounding area. the affect on the soil, land, water and residents would be catastrophic. it could seriously alter the entire southern ontario landscape. not to mention possibly destroying the only thing that could save us, agriculture on a local level. (05/30/11)

Miriam England: I fully support this petition. It is frightening to think that this could happen. I hope our governments will do something to stop this. (05/31/11)

Ben Murphy: I fully support this petition but I despise Highland comnpanies. It is major bull that this company could come in with false pretense and likely destroy lives and have major enviromental impact by quarrying below the water table. (05/31/11)