Further Testing on Richmond Dump Sites to Proceed

Provincial and municipal officials are working co-operatively to address concerns around former dump sites in Richmond County.

Officials from the Department of the Environment, the Municipality of Richmond County, the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Education and Culture met yesterday to discuss a plan of action that will ensure a co-ordinated approach to determine whether the sites pose any environmental concerns.

"We all share concerns about what's in the existing dumps and whether that could have any negative impacts," said Lawrence MacDonald, regional manager, eastern region. "By working together, we'll reduce duplication and get to the bottom of things quicker."

Participants reviewed results from tests taken to date. Testing on the water supply shows no evidence of impact from the dump sites in the area.

"However, more information is needed about the sites before making a definitive statement on whether the dumps will have any possible adverse influence on the water supply," said Mr. MacDonald. "That work will require going below the surface and exploring water flows in areas where the wells are located."

The Department of the Environment is therefore requesting that the Municipality of Richmond carry out site assessment as part of its well-head protection program. That work will include characterization of the dump sites and ground water flow directions. This will determine whether anything from the dumps can potentially influence the water supply and other developments in the area.

The department is prepared to work with the other parties to co-ordinate the work that has to be done. Once all the information has been collected, the Department of Environment will then be able to assess whether there is potential negative influence from the dumps.