Regulation

The aggregate mining industry is very tightly regulated in Alberta. Companies that mine aggregates must adhere to many environmental laws and regulations. Currently, there are more than 20 municipal, provincial and federal Acts, Policies and Regulations governing aggregate extraction activities in Alberta.

Equivalent Land Capability

Land must be reclaimed to a capability equal or better than prior to mining. This means your community benefits twice: first, with the use of local gravel, which is more economical than hauling into the area from outside sources; and second, the community may enjoy the reclaimed land as a park, golf course, community centre, etc.

Conservation and Reclamation Planning

Specific plans must be submitted to Alberta Environment regarding development details, conservation strategies, and reclamation plans for all aggregate mining proposals. This includes special considerations for water quality and surrounding vegetation and wildlife. Companies mining aggregate are required to provide the province Reclamation Security: the government will hold onto this monetary amount until the mined area has been returned to equivalent land capacity.

Operating Conditions

Your municipal district or county will define how the industry manages and operates aggregate pits in your area, including hauling routes, hours of operation, and even the features surrounding the pit such as trees and berms to control noise pollution and air quality. It is even possible to work the ASGA Truck Registry into these conditions, ensuring that all trucks hauling in the area are operating as per ASGA Registry Standards.

Legislation applicable to Exploration, Operation & Reclamation of Aggregate

Municipal

• Municipal Government Act

Provincial

• Alberta Land Stewardship Act
• Law of Property Act
• Public Lands Act
• Public Lands Administration Regulation
• Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act
• Conservation and Reclamation Regulation
• Code of Practice for Pits
• Historical Resources Act
• Forest Act
• Water Act
• Wetland Policy
• Code of Practice for Watercourse Crossings
• Weed Control Act
• Weed Control Regulation
• First Nations Consultation

Federal

• Canada Wildlife Act
• Migratory Birds Convention Act
• Species at Risk Act
• Fisheries Act
• Navigable Waters Protection Act

Learn more about the various levels of regulation effecting sand and gravel operations

• Municipal Government Act (http://www.qp.alberta.ca/documents/Acts/m26.pdf)
• Alberta Environment and Parks (http://esrd.alberta.ca/)
• Environment Canada (http://www.ec.gc.ca/)