Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Thank you for your continued engagement regarding the proposed AAOM gravel mine in Norvell Township. We want to share an update about recent developments in the review of the application:
Norvell Township recently issued a press release summarizing the steps taken to date in reviewing the application submitted by American Aggregates of Michigan (AAOM). Throughout this process, IHCC has remained actively engaged by conducting research, submitting detailed questions, and meeting directly with Township leadership to ensure community concerns are part of the official review. The Township confirmed that several issues raised during our February 26 meeting are being considered for inclusion in its formal response to AAOM. We appreciate that Supervisor Bill Sutherland met with us, reviewed our research and questions, and is working to ensure that community input is reflected in the Township’s follow-up to the applicant.
As part of this ongoing process, the consultants the Township hired to review AAOM’s application, GEI Consultants, issued an Addendum identifying additional items that require clarification from AAOM. We are encouraged to see that GEI’s supplemental comments address several issues raised in our memo, including whether the required 1,600-foot setback from Watkins Lake has been met under the Township ordinance. Setback compliance is a critical safeguard for natural resources, and we appreciate that this question is now formally part of the review.
At the same time, important issues remain outstanding. For example, AAOM’s application did not acknowledge prairie fens located within 100 feet of the project site despite their ecological significance. We will continue pressing for full and accurate environmental review on these and other matters.
The Township also reported meetings with multiple state and county agencies, including EGLE’s Air Quality Division, the NPDES section, MDOT, and the Jackson County Department of Transportation.
In response to all your letters, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) sent the same reply to each of the 96+ of you who wrote requesting an independent review of potential impacts to Watkins Lake State Park & County Preserve. While disappointed in the DNR’s current position, IHCC will not be discouraged. We will continue to correspond with them as we advocate on behalf of Watkins Lake State Park & County Preserve, and we will continue conducting research and consulting with experts about the potential impacts of industrial mining activity adjacent to this unique ecosystem and recreation area.
This review process is still underway, and much remains to be learned. IHCC will continue conducting research, asking questions, and advocating for the protection of Watkins Lake State Park & County Preserve. In the meantime, we are grateful for the many residents who have increased visibility around the issue by displaying yard signs on their property. We will keep the community informed as new information becomes available and as opportunities arise for residents to participate in the process.
Your continued engagement is helping ensure that this proposal receives the careful scrutiny it deserves.
Upcoming Dates:
IHCC Yard Sign Distribution
Sunday, March 8th 1-3pm
*Remember to spring ahead one hour for daylight savings time*
151 N. Main St (enter on School St), Brooklyn, MI 49230
IHCC Community Meeting
Saturday, March 14 at 10:30 AM
In person: 107 Chicago St, Brooklyn, MI 49230
Via zoom: Pre-register here!
Norvell Township Planning Commission Meeting
Wednesday, March 18 at 6:00 PM
300 Mill Rd, Brooklyn (Norvell), MI 49230
The gravel mine is not on the agenda, but public comment will be accepted.
– Irish Hills Concerned Citizens
IHCC’s mission is to protect Watkins Lake State Park & County Preserve, its birds and wildlife, and the rural character of the surrounding region.