What is R.W. Tomlinson's plan for the Ottawa quarry?

R.W. Tomlinson plans to expand its quarry operations near Stittsville, nearly tripling its current footprint and incorporating wetlands into the extraction area.

What environmental concerns are associated with the quarry expansion?

Environmental groups are concerned about the impact on wildlife, including minnows and turtles, and the loss of biodiversity in the affected wetlands.

How does R.W. Tomlinson plan to address environmental impacts?

The company aims for no net loss of natural features by creating over 63 hectares of new natural habitats through progressive rehabilitation during and after extraction.

Home / Environment / Quarry Expansion Threatens Stittsville Wetlands

Quarry Expansion Threatens Stittsville Wetlands

6 Mar

Summary

R.W. Tomlinson proposes tripling its quarry operation near Stittsville.
Concerns raised over impact on wildlife and 10.7 and 4.6 hectare wetlands.
Company pledges no net loss of natural features through rehabilitation.

Quarry Expansion Threatens Stittsville Wetlands

R.W. Tomlinson Ltd. is advancing a proposal to significantly expand its quarry operations, located near Stittsville, along Highway 7 in Ottawa's rural west. This expansion would nearly triple the current footprint of the bedrock extraction site, which supplies materials for concrete and asphalt.

The plan has met with opposition from environmental advocates who cite potential impacts on local wildlife and vital wetland ecosystems. Specifically, concerns have been voiced regarding at least three species of minnow and turtles inhabiting the wetlands targeted for inclusion in the expansion, which span 10.7 and 4.6 hectares respectively.

Friends of Stittsville Wetlands and Ontario Nature have highlighted the ecological significance of these areas, noting their role in biodiversity, carbon storage, and flood prevention. Despite these concerns, R.W. Tomlinson states its commitment to a 'no net loss' policy for natural features. The company plans to implement progressive rehabilitation over seven extraction phases, creating over 63 hectares of new natural features by the project's conclusion.

The proposal is now awaiting final approval from Ottawa city council.

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