A controversial sand-and-gravel mine in DuPont might be allowed to expand if it meets certain environmental standards, according to a hearing examiner decision published earlier this month.
As previously reported by The News Tribune, Glacier Northwest Inc., also known as CalPortland, has proposed expanding its existing Pioneer Aggregates Mine into about 188 acres of undisturbed land and 125 acres deeper into its existing mine. The mine at 4301 Pioneer Ave. is next to a previously undisturbed 10.8-acre kettle wetland and would drain local groundwater that feeds into a creek along the popular Sequalitchew Trail. If it goes forth, CalPortland would be able to extend mining operations for 14 more years. The South Parcel Project is on lands owned by Weyerhaeuser Co. and leased to CalPortland/NW Aggregates.
CalPortland staff told The News Tribune in 2024 that demand for aggregate rock has grown over the years. That type of rock is used to make quality concrete for bridges and roads. The company proposes to install wells to intercept and pump groundwater out to dry gravels for mining, in addition to logging and clearing the land. Pete Stoltz, the senior manager of permitting and government affairs for CalPortland/Glacier Northwest Inc., told The News Tribune Wednesday that the mine expansion would create “a couple” of new jobs, but mostly will use long-term existing employees.
On June 26, the nonprofit Clover Creek Restoration Alliance filed an appeal with the city of DuPont, Glacier Northwest/CalPortland and Weyerhauser Co. to prevent the project from progressing. President Sean Arent said the mine expansion would cause irreversible damage to nearby wetlands and streams, and argues the approved permits contain no specific long-term mitigation plan for the wetlands after mining ends…