Recently the Globe and Mail did a great article regarding the impact on Langley's water if Brown Road Pit is opened to mining and gravel extraction.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20090326.BCLANGLEY26/TPStory/?query=Langley+Boiling+over
Monday, March 30, 2009
Letter to R. Coleman, M.L.A. - 02/10/2009
Mr. R. Coleman, M.L.A.
February 10, 2009
(Fort Langley-Aldergrove)
Suite 101-B, 27336 Fraser Highway
Aldergrove, B.C. V4W 3N5
Dear Minister Coleman;
I attended a meeting with three neighbors at your Constituency Office on Thursday, Dec 11, 2008 to discuss the Brown Road Pit proposal to open a new mine for gravel extraction. You stated at that time that you would contact your colleagues and get back to us. No Reply!
I delivered a two page cover letter and a copy of our petition (with hundreds of Township signatures opposed to your governments proposal) to your Constituency Office on Monday, Jan 19, 2009. No Reply!
The same letter and a copy of the petition was also delivered in person on Friday, January 16, 2009 to the Constituency Office's of the Minister of Transport & Infrastructure, K. Falcon and the Minister of the Environment, B. Penner in Cloverdale and Chilliwack respectively. No Reply!
Mr. Coleman; you are our 'ELECTED' representative in Fort Langley-Aldergrove. Why do you continue to fail to respond to our requests for further dialogue and definitive replies regarding this serious environmental issue. You are a long time Township of Langley resident; likely with a private well. You must be fully aware of the serious impact the open mine gravel pit will have on our very sensitive Hopington Aquifer and entire neighborhood. Do you not realize that it is your duty and responsibility to represent the needs and concerns of your constituents first; not those of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation and bureaucrats. How can the Gateway Project, that will in all likelihood end up costing 5 plus billion dollars be a trade-off to save perhaps 20 million dollars on gravel? Again, this makes no sense at all considering there are other alternatives available. How and why did the Agricultural Land Commission basically rubber-stamp your request to proceed, subject to your own environmental study.
On Dec 11, 2008; I felt that our meeting was one of mutual respect and honesty as we expressed our many concerns with you. We expected the same from you in the form of a reply.
Unfortunately, I feel that regardless of the results of your environmental study, which is due in the spring and probably after the May 12, 2009 Provincial Election; that this proposal may possibly be another Provincial Government "DONE DEAL". Please tell me that this is not so!!! With the deafening silence we receive from you and your colleagues; this is yet another example of your governments lack of humility and respect to the voting public.
I feel that our politicians, from all levels of government should say what they mean and mean what they say. Citizens need to know that their politicians care about them, that we are being told the absolute truth and that there is no project that is greater than the importance of our environment and our neighborhoods.
It is imperative that you support our concerns and stop this proposal. Convince your colleagues that common sense should prevail and that Mr. Falcon's gravel should not come from one of the most sensitive areas of our Hopington Aquifer.
Should you find the time; ask Minister Falcon and Minister Penner if they have received my letter and petition on Jan 16, 2009. Does Premier Campbell condone this type of policy: "Say nothing and maybe they will go away". Communication with citizens would certainly demonstrate a degree of class, respect and compassion regarding their concerns.
Sincerely
**************************************************
On February 13, 2009, the Hon. Rich Coleman MLA for Fort-Langley-Aldergrove responed to this letter. In summary, Mr Colemean acknolwedged the need for "improving infrastructure like the Port Mann Bridge" but also noted that these sorts of initiatives should "not be pursued at the expense of our evnvironment or quality of life". Mr. Coleman also commented that he received a commitment from the Minister of Transportation, Hon. Kevin Falcon, that "if there is any risk identifed to wells and or drinking water, no gravel will be extracted from Brown's Pit.
February 10, 2009
(Fort Langley-Aldergrove)
Suite 101-B, 27336 Fraser Highway
Aldergrove, B.C. V4W 3N5
Dear Minister Coleman;
I attended a meeting with three neighbors at your Constituency Office on Thursday, Dec 11, 2008 to discuss the Brown Road Pit proposal to open a new mine for gravel extraction. You stated at that time that you would contact your colleagues and get back to us. No Reply!
I delivered a two page cover letter and a copy of our petition (with hundreds of Township signatures opposed to your governments proposal) to your Constituency Office on Monday, Jan 19, 2009. No Reply!
The same letter and a copy of the petition was also delivered in person on Friday, January 16, 2009 to the Constituency Office's of the Minister of Transport & Infrastructure, K. Falcon and the Minister of the Environment, B. Penner in Cloverdale and Chilliwack respectively. No Reply!
Mr. Coleman; you are our 'ELECTED' representative in Fort Langley-Aldergrove. Why do you continue to fail to respond to our requests for further dialogue and definitive replies regarding this serious environmental issue. You are a long time Township of Langley resident; likely with a private well. You must be fully aware of the serious impact the open mine gravel pit will have on our very sensitive Hopington Aquifer and entire neighborhood. Do you not realize that it is your duty and responsibility to represent the needs and concerns of your constituents first; not those of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transportation and bureaucrats. How can the Gateway Project, that will in all likelihood end up costing 5 plus billion dollars be a trade-off to save perhaps 20 million dollars on gravel? Again, this makes no sense at all considering there are other alternatives available. How and why did the Agricultural Land Commission basically rubber-stamp your request to proceed, subject to your own environmental study.
On Dec 11, 2008; I felt that our meeting was one of mutual respect and honesty as we expressed our many concerns with you. We expected the same from you in the form of a reply.
Unfortunately, I feel that regardless of the results of your environmental study, which is due in the spring and probably after the May 12, 2009 Provincial Election; that this proposal may possibly be another Provincial Government "DONE DEAL". Please tell me that this is not so!!! With the deafening silence we receive from you and your colleagues; this is yet another example of your governments lack of humility and respect to the voting public.
I feel that our politicians, from all levels of government should say what they mean and mean what they say. Citizens need to know that their politicians care about them, that we are being told the absolute truth and that there is no project that is greater than the importance of our environment and our neighborhoods.
It is imperative that you support our concerns and stop this proposal. Convince your colleagues that common sense should prevail and that Mr. Falcon's gravel should not come from one of the most sensitive areas of our Hopington Aquifer.
Should you find the time; ask Minister Falcon and Minister Penner if they have received my letter and petition on Jan 16, 2009. Does Premier Campbell condone this type of policy: "Say nothing and maybe they will go away". Communication with citizens would certainly demonstrate a degree of class, respect and compassion regarding their concerns.
Sincerely
**************************************************
On February 13, 2009, the Hon. Rich Coleman MLA for Fort-Langley-Aldergrove responed to this letter. In summary, Mr Colemean acknolwedged the need for "improving infrastructure like the Port Mann Bridge" but also noted that these sorts of initiatives should "not be pursued at the expense of our evnvironment or quality of life". Mr. Coleman also commented that he received a commitment from the Minister of Transportation, Hon. Kevin Falcon, that "if there is any risk identifed to wells and or drinking water, no gravel will be extracted from Brown's Pit.
Letter - Langley Mayor & Council - 01/19/2009
Mayor R. Green & Council
January 19, 2009
Township of Langley
20338-65 Avenue
V2Y 3J1
Your Worship & Councilors;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to the Brown Road Pit (240th. Street & 68th. Avenue) where the provincial government has a proposal in place to develop an open mine to extract gravel for the Gateway and other projects. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners depend wholly on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. We all have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtedly have a major negative impact on our private wells, our neighborhood and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land. The MoT had a hydro geological engineering company installed 5 monitoring wells along the perimeters of the proposed site. Two test wells monitor the quality of water and three wells monitor the depth. Surveyors have recently been on sight along the perimeters of the property. The proposal is subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
The provincial land in question is a field in pasture with two smaller abandoned pits to the east developed during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. This upland property from William's Park, where the proposed pit and our neighborhood is situated is similar to a plateau. The area is surrounded to the north by the freeway; dropping off in the east and south down to Coghlan Creek and from 240th St. dropping downhill to the west; Williams Park & the Salmon River. The area has been flagged by the Salmon River Enhancement Society, Doug McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7, 2008; 'Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer."
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared in May, 2008 a draft report for a Township Water Management Plan. This is very difficult to understand from a taxpayers perspective in that there has probably been substantial resources of time and money invested by the provincial government with the Township to prepare this plan yet senior government continues to move forward with their proposal to open a mine for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer. This does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly and cooperatively as a team with the Township for a common goal: to manage, conserve and safeguard the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage and abuse. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to resolve the problems that presently exist and enforce effective policy to protect the groundwater for our future.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of water to the Township cannot continue to sustain further drainage and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the aquifer in general.
I would like to address the Brown Road Pit proposal from a neighborhood point of view. The private wells in our area will inevitably be effected; both the quality of our water and the quantity available to us from the aquifer. The negative impact on our wells will likely occur immediate for some and probably later for others. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000.00 to drill new wells and there is no doubt that our property values will drop considerably and possibly never recover. Many, many years of noise pollution and air pollution will be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper fish and other species habitat.
The location of this proposal is a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by our B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the residents in our neighborhood. Regardless of what the geological engineers, hydrogeologists, project directors and administrators in the field may tell us; common sense indicates an inevitable negative impact on our water supply. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term environmental problems. I am sure that if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this proposed project; all the negative implications to our area would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
The development of an open pit mine in our backyard by the provincial government solely for the purpose of keeping their costs minimal and the transportation time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
Should this project proceed; who will step forward to offer full compensation to the working families, pensioners and seniors in the area? Our provincial government? Not likely! That would be wishful thinking and years of broken promises.
In December, 2008, we had a meeting with our local M.L.A., Minister R. Coleman. We addressed numerous issues regarding the proposal for Brown Road Pit but he was unable to answer many of our questions and our concerns. We are still waiting for a reply as he was to contact his colleague, MoT, Minister K. Falcon
I have written a detailed letter to the Minister of Transport & Infrastructure, K. Falcon; Minister of Environment, B. Penner and our MLA, Minister R. Coleman opposing the development of this gravel mine; asking them not to proceed with the proposal. I requested that they seriously consider and utilize other options. There are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for their project. With their letters, I enclosed a copy of our petition signed by the residents in our neighborhood and hundreds of other concerned citizens who oppose this proposal and depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
This past week our delegation had a conference call with the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Gateway Project and his Project Director from Victoria. Another member of our delegation will make a brief presentation to Council regarding that call. My own personal impression of the conference call is that they do not really know what will occur should they proceed and did not have answers to many of our concerns and questions.
Regarding the Agricultural Land Commission and their approval of this proposal; it is our understanding that on Nov. 7, 2008; three days before the Nov 10, 2008 all candidates meeting on the environment sponsored by the S.R.E.S. and one week before our municipal election; the Township signed a resolution with the A.L.C. regarding the Brown Road Pit proposal. I would ask council if they have further information regarding this resolution, its content and who may have signed the document. Was this resolution signed by Council or by Staff?
What expectations do we have regarding this very serious proposal? We feel that this project can be stopped if we all work together as a community. We feel positive and will be persistent in our efforts. We realize the provincial government has the "Significant Projects Streamlining Act" which I have not read. Also, during the past few years, our present provincial government has put in place numerous laws and regulations to ensure that they can control and dictate their policies and needs over municipal governments like our Township. We all need to step up to the plate, be heard and be accountable for the future of our community. We cannot allow senior levels of government to leave their negative footprints on our beautiful community; The Township of Langley.
We ask that Council schedule two public forums for further discussion and information with the provincial government regarding the Brown Road Pit proposal. We also request a public hearing meeting with Council present.
I submit to Council a copy of our petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who oppose the provincial government’s proposal.
To conclude, I would ask Your Worship, Councillors, Mr Bakken and Staff for your unanimous support to help us stop the opening of Brown Road Pit.
Please help us to manage, maintain and conserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'. Please help us preserve and save our very special neighborhood that we have come to love.
Respectfully,
January 19, 2009
Township of Langley
20338-65 Avenue
V2Y 3J1
Your Worship & Councilors;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to the Brown Road Pit (240th. Street & 68th. Avenue) where the provincial government has a proposal in place to develop an open mine to extract gravel for the Gateway and other projects. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners depend wholly on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. We all have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtedly have a major negative impact on our private wells, our neighborhood and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land. The MoT had a hydro geological engineering company installed 5 monitoring wells along the perimeters of the proposed site. Two test wells monitor the quality of water and three wells monitor the depth. Surveyors have recently been on sight along the perimeters of the property. The proposal is subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
The provincial land in question is a field in pasture with two smaller abandoned pits to the east developed during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. This upland property from William's Park, where the proposed pit and our neighborhood is situated is similar to a plateau. The area is surrounded to the north by the freeway; dropping off in the east and south down to Coghlan Creek and from 240th St. dropping downhill to the west; Williams Park & the Salmon River. The area has been flagged by the Salmon River Enhancement Society, Doug McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7, 2008; 'Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer."
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared in May, 2008 a draft report for a Township Water Management Plan. This is very difficult to understand from a taxpayers perspective in that there has probably been substantial resources of time and money invested by the provincial government with the Township to prepare this plan yet senior government continues to move forward with their proposal to open a mine for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer. This does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly and cooperatively as a team with the Township for a common goal: to manage, conserve and safeguard the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage and abuse. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to resolve the problems that presently exist and enforce effective policy to protect the groundwater for our future.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of water to the Township cannot continue to sustain further drainage and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the aquifer in general.
I would like to address the Brown Road Pit proposal from a neighborhood point of view. The private wells in our area will inevitably be effected; both the quality of our water and the quantity available to us from the aquifer. The negative impact on our wells will likely occur immediate for some and probably later for others. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000.00 to drill new wells and there is no doubt that our property values will drop considerably and possibly never recover. Many, many years of noise pollution and air pollution will be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper fish and other species habitat.
The location of this proposal is a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by our B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the residents in our neighborhood. Regardless of what the geological engineers, hydrogeologists, project directors and administrators in the field may tell us; common sense indicates an inevitable negative impact on our water supply. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term environmental problems. I am sure that if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this proposed project; all the negative implications to our area would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
The development of an open pit mine in our backyard by the provincial government solely for the purpose of keeping their costs minimal and the transportation time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
Should this project proceed; who will step forward to offer full compensation to the working families, pensioners and seniors in the area? Our provincial government? Not likely! That would be wishful thinking and years of broken promises.
In December, 2008, we had a meeting with our local M.L.A., Minister R. Coleman. We addressed numerous issues regarding the proposal for Brown Road Pit but he was unable to answer many of our questions and our concerns. We are still waiting for a reply as he was to contact his colleague, MoT, Minister K. Falcon
I have written a detailed letter to the Minister of Transport & Infrastructure, K. Falcon; Minister of Environment, B. Penner and our MLA, Minister R. Coleman opposing the development of this gravel mine; asking them not to proceed with the proposal. I requested that they seriously consider and utilize other options. There are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for their project. With their letters, I enclosed a copy of our petition signed by the residents in our neighborhood and hundreds of other concerned citizens who oppose this proposal and depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
This past week our delegation had a conference call with the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Gateway Project and his Project Director from Victoria. Another member of our delegation will make a brief presentation to Council regarding that call. My own personal impression of the conference call is that they do not really know what will occur should they proceed and did not have answers to many of our concerns and questions.
Regarding the Agricultural Land Commission and their approval of this proposal; it is our understanding that on Nov. 7, 2008; three days before the Nov 10, 2008 all candidates meeting on the environment sponsored by the S.R.E.S. and one week before our municipal election; the Township signed a resolution with the A.L.C. regarding the Brown Road Pit proposal. I would ask council if they have further information regarding this resolution, its content and who may have signed the document. Was this resolution signed by Council or by Staff?
What expectations do we have regarding this very serious proposal? We feel that this project can be stopped if we all work together as a community. We feel positive and will be persistent in our efforts. We realize the provincial government has the "Significant Projects Streamlining Act" which I have not read. Also, during the past few years, our present provincial government has put in place numerous laws and regulations to ensure that they can control and dictate their policies and needs over municipal governments like our Township. We all need to step up to the plate, be heard and be accountable for the future of our community. We cannot allow senior levels of government to leave their negative footprints on our beautiful community; The Township of Langley.
We ask that Council schedule two public forums for further discussion and information with the provincial government regarding the Brown Road Pit proposal. We also request a public hearing meeting with Council present.
I submit to Council a copy of our petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who oppose the provincial government’s proposal.
To conclude, I would ask Your Worship, Councillors, Mr Bakken and Staff for your unanimous support to help us stop the opening of Brown Road Pit.
Please help us to manage, maintain and conserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'. Please help us preserve and save our very special neighborhood that we have come to love.
Respectfully,
Letter to B. Penner, M.L.A. - 01/16/2009
Mr. B. Penner, M.L.A.
January 16, 2009
Minister of Environment
Unit 101-7388 Vedder Road
Chilliwack, B.C.
V2R 4E4
Dear Sir;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to Brown Road, (240th. Street & 68th. Ave) where the Provincial Government is proposing to open a new mine for gravel extraction. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners wholly depend on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. I have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtely have a major negative impact on the area and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land for the Gateway Project. The MoT also had a hydro geological engineering company install 5 monitoring wells along the perimeter of the proposed site. The property in question is in pasture with a portion to the east an abandoned pit used during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. The proposal is supposed to be subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
This upland area (Brown Pit) from William's Park is similar to a plateau; surrounded to the east and south by Coghlan Creek; west by the Salmon River and north by Highway 1. The area has been flagged by the director of the Salmon River Enhancemant Society, D. McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7/08; ' Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer.
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared a Water Management Plan in draft last May, 2008. The mining of a pasture for gravel extraction does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly & cooperatively as a team with our Township for a common goal; to conserve, manage and save the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of our water to the Township cannot continue to sustain further abuse and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to 10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the entire aquifer. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to solve the problems and enforce effective policy to protect groundwater. Opening a new pit for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer makes absolutely no sense at all. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
The private wells near the proposed pit will inevitably be effected; both the quality and quantity of water available. The negative implications from this project will likely occur much sooner than later. This proposal is nothing than a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by the B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the taxpayer. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000 to drill new wells and there is no doubt our property values will drop and may never recover. Many years of noise and air pollution will also be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Who will step forward to offer full compensation to residents when faced with financial loss due to this proposal? Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper salmon and other species habitat.
Regardless of what the hydogeologists, geological engineers and development experts in the field may tell us; common sense points to an inevitable negative impact on our water supply and the entire neighborhood should you proceed with this major project. It may be all fine for the provincial government to state that the impact of this project will be minimal and that they will look after us should there be a problem. We have all heard this before and seldom does anything in the way of support or compensation occur. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted to this degree; with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term problems in our immediate area. I am sure if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this project; the negative implications to our entire neighborhood would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
We strongly oppose the development of this gravel mine and ask that the MoT not proceed with this project. I would ask that the MoT seriously use another option as there are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for the Gateway and other projects. Mining gravel in our area to keep your costs minimal and transport time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. Do not incur further drainage to our aquifer, destroying our local private wells and damaging our neighborhood.
Enclosed with this letter is a petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
I look forward to further dialogue with you and receiving a definitive reply regarding this very important matter.
Please help us manage, maintain and preserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'.
We need your support and understanding regarding this very serious issue. Please do not proceed with this project.
Respectfully,
January 16, 2009
Minister of Environment
Unit 101-7388 Vedder Road
Chilliwack, B.C.
V2R 4E4
Dear Sir;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to Brown Road, (240th. Street & 68th. Ave) where the Provincial Government is proposing to open a new mine for gravel extraction. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners wholly depend on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. I have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtely have a major negative impact on the area and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land for the Gateway Project. The MoT also had a hydro geological engineering company install 5 monitoring wells along the perimeter of the proposed site. The property in question is in pasture with a portion to the east an abandoned pit used during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. The proposal is supposed to be subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
This upland area (Brown Pit) from William's Park is similar to a plateau; surrounded to the east and south by Coghlan Creek; west by the Salmon River and north by Highway 1. The area has been flagged by the director of the Salmon River Enhancemant Society, D. McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7/08; ' Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer.
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared a Water Management Plan in draft last May, 2008. The mining of a pasture for gravel extraction does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly & cooperatively as a team with our Township for a common goal; to conserve, manage and save the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of our water to the Township cannot continue to sustain further abuse and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to 10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the entire aquifer. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to solve the problems and enforce effective policy to protect groundwater. Opening a new pit for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer makes absolutely no sense at all. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
The private wells near the proposed pit will inevitably be effected; both the quality and quantity of water available. The negative implications from this project will likely occur much sooner than later. This proposal is nothing than a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by the B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the taxpayer. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000 to drill new wells and there is no doubt our property values will drop and may never recover. Many years of noise and air pollution will also be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Who will step forward to offer full compensation to residents when faced with financial loss due to this proposal? Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper salmon and other species habitat.
Regardless of what the hydogeologists, geological engineers and development experts in the field may tell us; common sense points to an inevitable negative impact on our water supply and the entire neighborhood should you proceed with this major project. It may be all fine for the provincial government to state that the impact of this project will be minimal and that they will look after us should there be a problem. We have all heard this before and seldom does anything in the way of support or compensation occur. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted to this degree; with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term problems in our immediate area. I am sure if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this project; the negative implications to our entire neighborhood would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
We strongly oppose the development of this gravel mine and ask that the MoT not proceed with this project. I would ask that the MoT seriously use another option as there are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for the Gateway and other projects. Mining gravel in our area to keep your costs minimal and transport time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. Do not incur further drainage to our aquifer, destroying our local private wells and damaging our neighborhood.
Enclosed with this letter is a petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
I look forward to further dialogue with you and receiving a definitive reply regarding this very important matter.
Please help us manage, maintain and preserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'.
We need your support and understanding regarding this very serious issue. Please do not proceed with this project.
Respectfully,
Letter to R. Coleman, M.L.A. - 01/16/2009
Mr. R. Coleman, M.L.A.
January 16, 2009
Minister of Housing & Social Development
Suite 101B-27336 Fraser Highway
Aldergrove, B.C.
V4W 3N5
Dear Sir;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to Brown Road, (240th. Street & 68th. Ave) where the Provincial Government is proposing to open a new mine for gravel extraction. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners wholly depend on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. I have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtedly have a major negative impact on the area and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land for the Gateway Project. The MoT also had a hydro geological engineering company install 5 monitoring wells along the perimeter of the proposed site. The property in question is in pasture with a portion to the east an abandoned pit used during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. The proposal is supposed to be subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
This upland area (Brown Pit) from William's Park is similar to a plateau; surrounded to the east and south by Coghlan Creek; west by the Salmon River and north by Highway 1. The area has been flagged by the director of the Salmon River Enhancemant Society, D. McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7/08; ' Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer.
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared a Water Management Plan in draft last May, 2008. The mining of a pasture for gravel extraction does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly & cooperatively as a team with our Township for a common goal; to conserve, manage and save the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of our water in the Township cannot continue to sustain further abuse and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to 10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the entire aquifer. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to solve the problems and enforce effective policy to protect groundwater. Opening a new pit for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer makes absolutely no sense at all. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
The private wells near the proposed pit will inevitably be effected; both the quality and quantity of water available. The negative implications from this project will likely occur much sooner than later. This proposal is obviously a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by the B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the taxpayer. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000 to drill new wells and there is no doubt our property values will drop and may never recover. Many years of noise and air pollution will also be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Who will step forward to offer full compensation to residents when faced with financial loss due to this proposal? Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper salmon and other species habitat.
Regardless of what the hydogeologists, geological engineers and your development experts in the field may tell us; common sense points to an inevitable negative impact on our water supply and the entire neighborhood should you proceed with this major project. It may be all fine for the provincial government to state that the impact of this project will be minimal and that they will look after us should there be a problem. We have all heard this before and seldom does anything in the way of support or compensation occur. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted to this degree; with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term problems in our immediate area. I am sure if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this project; the negative implications to our entire neighborhood would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
We strongly oppose the development of this gravel mine and ask that the MoT not proceed with this project. I would ask that the MoT seriously use another option as there are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for the Gateway and other projects. Mining gravel in our area to keep your costs minimal and transport time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. Do not incur further drainage to our aquifer, destroying our local private wells and damaging our neighborhood.
Enclosed with this letter is a petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
I look forward to further dialogue with you and receiving a definitive reply regarding this very important matter.
Please help us manage, maintain and preserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'.
We need your support and understanding regarding this very serious issue. Please do not proceed with this project.
Respectfully,
January 16, 2009
Minister of Housing & Social Development
Suite 101B-27336 Fraser Highway
Aldergrove, B.C.
V4W 3N5
Dear Sir;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to Brown Road, (240th. Street & 68th. Ave) where the Provincial Government is proposing to open a new mine for gravel extraction. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners wholly depend on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. I have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtedly have a major negative impact on the area and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land for the Gateway Project. The MoT also had a hydro geological engineering company install 5 monitoring wells along the perimeter of the proposed site. The property in question is in pasture with a portion to the east an abandoned pit used during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. The proposal is supposed to be subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
This upland area (Brown Pit) from William's Park is similar to a plateau; surrounded to the east and south by Coghlan Creek; west by the Salmon River and north by Highway 1. The area has been flagged by the director of the Salmon River Enhancemant Society, D. McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7/08; ' Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer.
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared a Water Management Plan in draft last May, 2008. The mining of a pasture for gravel extraction does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly & cooperatively as a team with our Township for a common goal; to conserve, manage and save the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of our water in the Township cannot continue to sustain further abuse and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to 10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the entire aquifer. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to solve the problems and enforce effective policy to protect groundwater. Opening a new pit for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer makes absolutely no sense at all. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
The private wells near the proposed pit will inevitably be effected; both the quality and quantity of water available. The negative implications from this project will likely occur much sooner than later. This proposal is obviously a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by the B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the taxpayer. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000 to drill new wells and there is no doubt our property values will drop and may never recover. Many years of noise and air pollution will also be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Who will step forward to offer full compensation to residents when faced with financial loss due to this proposal? Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper salmon and other species habitat.
Regardless of what the hydogeologists, geological engineers and your development experts in the field may tell us; common sense points to an inevitable negative impact on our water supply and the entire neighborhood should you proceed with this major project. It may be all fine for the provincial government to state that the impact of this project will be minimal and that they will look after us should there be a problem. We have all heard this before and seldom does anything in the way of support or compensation occur. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted to this degree; with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term problems in our immediate area. I am sure if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this project; the negative implications to our entire neighborhood would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
We strongly oppose the development of this gravel mine and ask that the MoT not proceed with this project. I would ask that the MoT seriously use another option as there are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for the Gateway and other projects. Mining gravel in our area to keep your costs minimal and transport time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. Do not incur further drainage to our aquifer, destroying our local private wells and damaging our neighborhood.
Enclosed with this letter is a petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
I look forward to further dialogue with you and receiving a definitive reply regarding this very important matter.
Please help us manage, maintain and preserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'.
We need your support and understanding regarding this very serious issue. Please do not proceed with this project.
Respectfully,
Letter to Mr. K. Falcon, M.L.A - 01/16/2009
Mr. K. Falcon, M.L.A.
January 16, 2009
Minister of Transport & Infrastructure
#108-17700 #10 Highway
Surrey, B.C.
V3S 1C7
Dear Sir;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to Brown Road, (240th. Street & 68th. Ave) where the Provincial Government is proposing to open a new mine for gravel extraction. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners wholly depend on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. I have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtedly have a major negative impact on the area and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land for the Gateway Project. The MoT also had a hydro geological engineering company install 5 monitoring wells along the perimeter of the proposed site. The property in question is in pasture with a portion to the east an abandoned pit used during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. The proposal is supposed to be subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
This upland area (Brown Pit) from William's Park is similar to a plateau; surrounded to the east and south by Coghlan Creek; west by the Salmon River and north by Highway 1. The area has been flagged by the director of the Salmon River Enhancement Society, D. McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7/08; ' Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer.
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared a Water Management Plan in draft last May, 2008. The mining of a pasture for gravel extraction does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly & cooperatively as a team with our Township for a common goal; to conserve, manage and save the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of our water to the Township cannot continue to sustain further abuse and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to 10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the entire aquifer. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to solve the problems and enforce effective policy to protect groundwater. Opening a new pit for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer makes absolutely no sense at all. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
The private wells near the proposed pit will inevitably be affected; both the quality and quantity of water available. The negative implications from this project will likely occur much sooner than later. This proposal is obviously a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by the B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the taxpayer. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000 to drill new wells and there is no doubt our property values will drop and may never recover. Many years of noise and air pollution will also be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Who will step forward to offer full compensation to residents when faced with financial loss due to this proposal? Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper salmon and other species habitat.
Regardless of what the hydogeologists, geological engineers and development experts in the field may tell us; common sense points to an inevitable negative impact on our water supply and the entire neighborhood should you proceed with this major project. It may be all fine for the provincial government to state that the impact of this project will be minimal and that they will look after us should there be a problem. We have all heard this before and seldom does anything in the way of support or compensation occur. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted to this degree; with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term problems in our immediate area. I am sure if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this project; the negative implications to our entire neighborhood would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
We strongly oppose the development of this gravel mine and ask that the MoT not to proceed with this project. I would ask that the MoT seriously use other options as there are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for the Gateway and other projects. Mining gravel in our area to keep your costs minimal and transport time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. Do not incur further drainage to our aquifer, destroying our local private wells and damaging our neighborhood.
Enclosed with this letter is a petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
I look forward to further dialogue with you and receiving a definitive reply regarding this very important matter.
Please help us manage, maintain and preserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'.
We need your support and understanding regarding this very serious issue. Please do not proceed with this project.
Respectfully,
January 16, 2009
Minister of Transport & Infrastructure
#108-17700 #10 Highway
Surrey, B.C.
V3S 1C7
Dear Sir;
I have resided in the Township of Langley for 34 years within close proximity to Brown Road, (240th. Street & 68th. Ave) where the Provincial Government is proposing to open a new mine for gravel extraction. My home, our entire neighborhood and thousands of other private well owners wholly depend on the Hopington Aquifer for our most valuable resource: 'WATER'. I have many serious concerns regarding this proposal as it will undoubtedly have a major negative impact on the area and serious environmental implications.
Last year, The Ministry of Transport & Infrastructure (MoT) submitted a soil removal permit application to the Township to mine and extract gravel from the provincial land for the Gateway Project. The MoT also had a hydro geological engineering company install 5 monitoring wells along the perimeter of the proposed site. The property in question is in pasture with a portion to the east an abandoned pit used during the construction of Highway #1 in the 1960's. The proposal is supposed to be subject to the Agricultural Land Commission and Township of Langley approvals.
There has been a Township 'MORATORIUM' in place for almost 20 years, rejecting all applications for new gravel extraction.
This upland area (Brown Pit) from William's Park is similar to a plateau; surrounded to the east and south by Coghlan Creek; west by the Salmon River and north by Highway 1. The area has been flagged by the director of the Salmon River Enhancement Society, D. McPhee, as one of three areas with serious dropping water tables. The Langley Times-Nov 7/08; ' Water Issues are Serious, Ongoing'; quote; "Dropping water tables in the surrounding area (Milner, Aldergrove and the area around the freeway at 240th. Street) drain water from the Hopington Aquifer.
The dropping water table and water quality has become a provincial concern with the B.C. Government allowing Langley to act as a test case for new provincial groundwater measures. The Township of Langley, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands prepared a Water Management Plan in draft last May, 2008. The mining of a pasture for gravel extraction does not appear to be a senior level of government working responsibly & cooperatively as a team with our Township for a common goal; to conserve, manage and save the Hopington Aquifer from further drainage.
The already 'OVERPUMPED & FRAGILE' Hopington Aquifer that supplies 80% of our water to the Township cannot continue to sustain further abuse and mismanagement. With the groundwater level dropping one (1) foot per year; the next 5 to 10 years looks increasingly grim for private well owners and the entire aquifer. The provincial government should be working together with our Township to solve the problems and enforce effective policy to protect groundwater. Opening a new pit for gravel extraction in a highly sensitive area of our aquifer makes absolutely no sense at all. This proposal is in the wrong place, at the wrong time and for all the wrong reasons.
The private wells near the proposed pit will inevitably be affected; both the quality and quantity of water available. The negative implications from this project will likely occur much sooner than later. This proposal is obviously a convenience and a cost-cutting measure by the B.C. Government resulting in future expenses and stress to the taxpayer. We will be facing costs upwards of $25,000 to drill new wells and there is no doubt our property values will drop and may never recover. Many years of noise and air pollution will also be continuous by-products of this project in a suburban residential and farm area. Who will step forward to offer full compensation to residents when faced with financial loss due to this proposal? Water levels seasonally in Coghlan Creek are almost immeasurable & unable to sustain proper salmon and other species habitat.
Regardless of what the hydogeologists, geological engineers and development experts in the field may tell us; common sense points to an inevitable negative impact on our water supply and the entire neighborhood should you proceed with this major project. It may be all fine for the provincial government to state that the impact of this project will be minimal and that they will look after us should there be a problem. We have all heard this before and seldom does anything in the way of support or compensation occur. No one can guarantee that when the landscape is disrupted to this degree; with a massive excavation of this magnitude that there will not be both short term and long term problems in our immediate area. I am sure if a proper risk assessment was completed regarding this project; the negative implications to our entire neighborhood would certainly out-weigh the MoT's need for thousands of metric tons of gravel.
We strongly oppose the development of this gravel mine and ask that the MoT not to proceed with this project. I would ask that the MoT seriously use other options as there are definitely many other existing sources of gravel for the Gateway and other projects. Mining gravel in our area to keep your costs minimal and transport time down is not acceptable considering the serious consequences. Do not incur further drainage to our aquifer, destroying our local private wells and damaging our neighborhood.
Enclosed with this letter is a petition signed by hundreds of concerned citizens who depend on the Hopington Aquifer as their only source of water.
I look forward to further dialogue with you and receiving a definitive reply regarding this very important matter.
Please help us manage, maintain and preserve our most valuable resource 'WATER'.
We need your support and understanding regarding this very serious issue. Please do not proceed with this project.
Respectfully,
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