Town reopens West Quarry following cleanup project

Now that the work is complete, the West Quarry is a wonderful place to fish, canoe or kayak. However, please note that, for safety reasons, there is no swimming allowed. Pictured, a group of young fishermen get ready to land their catch.

By St. Marys Independent Staff

The Town of St. Marys has announced the West Quarry has reopened following the completion of the West Quarry Cleanup Project. 

The project focused on improving site safety, addressing invasive species and reducing long-term liabilities from when the site was an active quarry. Work included removing 900 cubic metres of waste concrete and 7,500 pounds of hazard-waste steel material, clearing overgrowth, improving water access, installing scenic fencing, and restoring portions of the site as open greenspace. 

In conjunction with the reopening, town council recently approved an updated Quarry bylaw to allow for the use of human-powered watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, as well as fishing at the West Quarry between dawn and dusk from April 1 to Nov. 30. Swimming remains prohibited, and visitors are asked to follow all posted rules and safety signage while using the area. 

“We are pleased to reopen the West Quarry area and thank the community for their patience while this important work was completed,” said Jed Kelly, St. Marys director of public works, in a press release. “There are still a few finishing touches to be completed in the coming months, such as installing permanent fencing around the pillars, additional tree planting, bench donations and pathway installations. The grass is well established now and we are eager to have residents and tourists enjoying the space this summer.” 

The West Quarry Cleanup Project was completed with support from the Ontario Aggregate Resources Corporation. The town will continue to monitor restored areas and complete any remaining seasonal maintenance as needed. 

For more information on the West Quarry, visit townofstmarys.com/westquarry.