December 1, 2011
Abbotsford Gravel Sales Excels in Reclamation

ABBOTSFORD – Abbotsford Gravel Sales Ltd. has been recognized for its outstanding achievements in reclamation, cementing B.C.’s reputation as a leader in sustainable resource development and environmental protection.

The award was presented on November 30 by the B.C. Technical and Research Committee on Reclamation. It acknowledges excellence in reclamation at sand and gravel operations, and was given to Abbotsford Gravel Sales Ltd. for its work in finding a location to dispose of clean construction fill that was being stored on valuable agricultural land.

Why this matters:

• Clean fill is helping reclaim mined areas back to their natural site. This has allowed for the expansion of sand and gravel extraction to meet the growing demands of the Greater Vancouver Area.
• Mine reclamation involves mitigating the effects of modern mining by rehabilitating the disturbed land. Work involves everything from re-establishing vegetative cover, to repairing soil stability and water conditions at the site.
• Site reclamation has led to the re-establishment of agricultural land. To date, seven acres have successfully grown a winter wheat crop and an additional 10 acres were reclaimed and reseeded this fall.

Quotes:

”Proper reclamation is a critical aspect of a socially responsible gravel enterprise.  I’m pleased to see Abbotsford Gravel Sales Ltd. recognized for their work. I hope it will inspire others to follow their lead.” 
-Abbotsford South MLA John van Dongen

“Kudos to Abbotsford Gravel Sales Ltd. for their innovative and industry-leading work in making mining more environmentally friendly.”
-Abbotsford West MLA Michael de Jong

“I’m very happy to see Abbotsford Gravel Sales Ltd. recognized for their pioneering work in site reclamation. Not only are they helping re-establish agricultural land, they’re setting an example for the entire industry in how to be financially successful and environmentally responsible.”
-Abbotsford-Mission MLA Randy Hawes

“Reclamation is a critical part of the mining cycle and a requirement for all mine and mineral exploration sites in British Columbia. The ability to complete sustainable reclamation is an important part of the mine planning process and it is great to see these sites setting an example for solid reclamation practices.”
-Karina Brino, President and CEO, Mining Association of BC

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