2005 MLRR Awards

	Mineral Land Regulation and Reclamation Program, 2005 Mined Land Reclamation Awards

Good Neighbor Award - Liberty Rock Products, Inc., Weber Quarry, Sweet Home, OR - Contact Cal Emmert - 541-367-3274

Background:

The Weber Quarry is located 2 miles north of Sweet Home on the crest of Marks Ridge. It is reported mining began at this site in the 1930s. Based on aerial photography approximately nine acres are eligible for exempt status. ODOT was issued a Grant of Limited Exemption for this site in 1974. A full Operating Permit was issued in 1981.

Mr. Emmert assumed this permit through a transfer in 1992 and has maintained it since.

Gabriel Creek bisects the property with mine operations on both sides of the creek. Setbacks from the creek and preserving the existing vegetation has protected water quality.

Soils and overburden have been salvaged and stockpiled on-site for final reclamation. Excavated slopes are kept at the required slope or flatter.

In 1996 neighbors became concerned about the potential impacts from blasting at the quarry to their properties. Of major concern were impacts to existing water wells.

The drilling and blasting contractor submitted detailed blasting plans that were sent to all concerned parties. Well logs and production data was compiled for the three closest wells. A geophysical consultant was hired to monitor production blasts on and off-site.

All monitoring results were released to the neighbors. The monitoring report indicated blasting at the Weber Quarry did not exceed industry accepted standards and does not pose a risk to the adjacent properties. Mr. Emmert has opened his operation to review by all parties to insure any and all concerns are addressed.

A unique deposit of alluvial gravels sandwiched between basalt flows has drawn the attention of local geology professors. The Weber Quarry has been opened up to geology field trips.

Mr. Emmert is being recognized for his efforts to meet and exceed the state requirements in operating a rock quarry, working with adjacent property owners to address their concerns, and allowing geology field trips to view a distinctive geologic feature.

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The Weber Quarry is located 2 miles north of Sweet Home.

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Mineral Land Regulation and Reclamation Program, 2005 Mined Land Reclamation Awards