Water problems blamed on cement firm

An Onoway-area man appeared before the provincial Environmental Appeal Board Friday alleging Lafarge Canada is responsible for the decline in groundwater under his property. Lafarge uses holding and settling ponds to filter out sediments accumulated by the washing of gravel. Pond water is recycled when it seeps back into groundwater aquifers.

Northcott said higher levels of heavy metals and a drop in the level of his well have occurred since the late 1990s. He blamed Lafarge, alleging the company has been using Kilini Creek as an illegal water diversion. Representatives of Lafarge disputed Northcott’s claims. Mitch Schaufler, general manager of aggregates for Lafarge Canada, said the company has complied with provincial water regulations. A final decision is expected in about 60 days.