Friends of the Tay Present Award to Friends of Lanark Highlands

At their AGM in Perth, on March 25th, the Friends of the Tay presented an Environmental Award to the citizens’ group, Friends of Lanark Highlands. The presentation recognized the work of Friends of Lanark Highlands in their ongoing efforts to protect areas of wetland, creeks and maple forests around Barbers Lake, in the western reaches of Lanark County.

Friends of Lanark Highlands works to raise community awareness around the environmental and social values of the area’s natural heritage features and varied species. Through field research, public meetings and their monthly newsletter, the group draws attention to growing scientific understanding of the potential environmental damage and health risks that stem from aggregate development in sensitive environmental areas.

A particular FLH cause addresses a Barbers Lake adjacent site on the Highland Line in Lanark Highlands Township, which is under application to the MNRF for development as a major below the water table aggregate operation. The site is nestled among a network of wetlands that form the headwaters of the Long Sault Creek, a celebrated rare cold water trout stream. The Highland Line is a popular byway for cyclists; the wider area and its lake are enjoyed year round by hikers, campers and fishers.

This time of the year, throngs of visitors from far afield make their way along the Highland Line to Wheelers’ Pancake House and Maple Museums to mark the maple season and visit one of Lanark County’s prime tourist destinations. The proposed pit site borders the Wheelers venue, and the hundreds of acres of surrounding maple sugar bush.

The applicant for the new pit, Thomas Cavanagh Construction Ltd., has faced extraordinary local community opposition to their plan, and they have vaulted over local decision makers to propel their case to the Ontario Land Tribunal for decision. Notice of a hearing date is pending