Black Point Quarry Passes Environmental Assessment with Conditions

Environment Minister Margaret Miller approved the Black Point Quarry project in Guysborough County, today, April 26, in accordance with Environmental Assessment Regulations under the Environment Act.

Black Point Aggregates Inc., Birmingham, Alabama, is proposing a 355-hectare granite quarry, with a marine terminal and loading facility alongside in Chedabucto Bay.

Ms. Miller said that any adverse or significant environmental effects can be mitigated through terms and conditions for the quarry.

Planned activities for the quarry triggered an environmental assessment under both federal and provincial regulations. Under provincial regulations, a quarry larger than four hectares or a project that may disrupt wetlands of two hectares or more requires an environmental assessment.

For information on the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency assessment, see http://ceaa.gc.ca/050/details-eng.cfm?evaluation=80064.

During consultation, there were questions and concerns over the quarry's effects on water quality and use; wetlands; local fisheries and aquatic habitat; mainland moose; heritage and archaeological resources; noise and dust; and tourism.

The project is subject to numerous terms and conditions, including mitigation plans for protecting water and wetlands, managing light, noise and dust, and the need to stop work if archaeological sites or artifacts are unearthed.

Requirements include creating a community liaison committee, a complaint resolution plan, and ongoing engagement with the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia.

The department uses science and fact-based decision making when assessing projects for environmental approval.

For more information go to http://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/black-point-quarry.asp .