Because of an appeal by local people on the environmental and health impacts from the project!
As far as we know, this is a recent, if not a first, move for the Alberta SDAB.
Gravel mining can have major impacts on the local ecosystems and hydrological systems within a region. The process demands drilling into the earth, disturbing layers of earth and clay risking the distruption of aquifers and ground water systems. Toxic waste from quarry operations can contaminate our communities water supply, endangering public health. Rock dust can also damage air quality and health of people living near the mine. For more information on the risks of gravel mining in Alberta please read Battling Gravel Goliaths by Water Matters.
Although SDAB decisions across jurisdiction do not create legal precedent, they are definitely useful politically and will serve to help the growing local...
