Judy Buehler of Friends of the Tay presents the Friends of Lanark Highlands chair, Geoff Mason, with a Friends of the Tay Environmental Award . Photo credit David Zimmerly
A local citizens’ group is being recognized for its efforts to protect sensitive natural areas in Lanark County.
At their annual general meeting in Perth on March 25th, the Friends of the Tay presented an Environmental Award to Friends of Lanark Highlands.
The award highlights the group’s ongoing work to protect wetlands, creeks and maple forests around Barbers Lake in western Lanark County.
Friends of Lanark Highlands has focused on raising awareness about the environmental and social value of the area through field research, public meetings and a monthly newsletter. The group has also raised concerns about potential environmental and health risks linked to aggregate development in sensitive areas.
One major focus is a proposed below-the-water-table aggregate operation on Highland Line, near Barbers Lake. The site sits within a network of wetlands that form the headwaters of Long Sault Creek, a cold-water trout stream.
The area is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation and tourism, including visitors heading to Wheelers Pancake House and Maple Museum during maple season.
The proposal by Thomas Cavanagh Construction Limited has faced strong local opposition and is now headed to the Ontario Land Tribunal. A hearing date has not yet been announced.
