The Gravel Pit Study was completed in 2011 by the Mackenzie Municipal Services Agency for the Municipal District of Peace No. 135. The purpose of the study was to develop guidelines and regulations for ensuring sustainable gravel pit development and operations, in order to address concerns over the visual, environmental and economic impact of private sand and gravel pit operations within the M.D. The study categorizes gravel pit development and operations into yellow and white zones. Yellow zones are areas within the M.D. where gravel pit development and operations are restricted due to the presence of environmentally sensitive lands, public amenities, fertile soils and other features that are incompatible with gravel pit operations. White zones are permitted zones for gravel pit development and operations, subject to provincial and municipal requirements. The study contains guidelines, standards, regulations and application checklist for new gravel pit operations, in addition to those contained in the Land Use Bylaw. The Gravel Pit Study recommends (1) that the environmental impacts of any new gravel pit application are considered before approving any new development permits; (2) public consultation and awareness building be undertaken to gather public support for the restriction zone. Individuals or companies planning to develop new gravel pits, or expand or significantly modify their existing gravel pit operations, are encouraged to review the regulations in the study prior to commencing their application for a development permit.
The Gravel Pit Study is intended to assist the Municipal District in formulating guidelines and regulations to guide the M.D. in reviewing and approving future gravel pit development within the M.D.’s boundaries.