Rocky View approves contentious gravel pit on edge of Big Hill Springs Provincial Park
Proposal calls for 131-hectare sand and gravel pit next to the park, northwest of Calgary
Rocky View County has approved a contentious gravel pit immediately adjacent to Big Hill Springs Provincial Park.
Crystal Kissel was one of three councillors to vote against the proposal for a 131-hectare sand and gravel pit at a meeting on Tuesday. Six voted to approve the plan.
Kissel says she voted against the proposal because more conversation and more facts were needed.
She said Alberta Environment and Parks asked the municipality to hold off on approval until more was understood about the potential impacts.
"There's another gravel pit that's a couple miles away that does not affect the park," said Kissel on Wednesday.
"This one literally backs on to the water source. It's like 200 or 300 metres to the water head. Like, it's not far."
The park, which features spring creeks flowing down hillsides just north of Calgary, was established in 1957 due to its unique features.
- LISTEN | Find out more about what happens next in the Homestretch interviews below
A group called the Bighill Creek Preservation Society opposed the gravel pit, arguing it would destroy the springs that give the park its name.
Kissel says her colleagues that supported the plan could live to regret their decision if the park is killed in the process.
"When a council puts industry over people, the council has failed," she said. "I live by that remark."
The park is currently closed for refurbishment, including "upgrades to all parking areas, picnic areas and trails," according to the Alberta Parks website.
