Responsible land management is integral to sustaining Vulcan Material’s success, according to the company. “We strive to achieve a balance between the value we create through our mining activities and the value created when it’s time for our properties’ next use,” the company said.
The company has released a list of some of its notable reclamation projects:
Rank Island Habitat
Vulcan’s River Rock Plant, located along the San Joaquin River in Fresno, Calif., contains within its property limits Rank Island. The 300-acre protected island provides valuable habitat for a diverse group of plant and animal species, including one of the largest great blue heron and great egret rookeries in California’s Central Valley. The site has been a Wildlife Habitat Council–certified habitat since 2002. This Rank Island Habitat was developed through a process where the aggregates were mined and concurrent reclamation of the property was performed.
Broward Quarry, Fla.
This limestone quarry site was reclaimed with a sizeable lake left behind and high-value residential property established along the lake shoreline and on adjoining property. The creation of the lake helped to attract upscale housing developments.
Parkwood Quarry, Birmingham, Ala.
This quarry was converted into a series of lakes, which provided an attractive setting for housing developments surrounding and adjacent to the lakes. The lakes currently provide habitat for a number of bird species, including Canadian geese and herons. The property also includes an elementary school and a walking track.
Bellwood Quarry, Atlanta
Following the completion of mining, the Bellwood Quarry was acquired by the City of Atlanta for a mixed-use recreational/park facility and water reservoir. The reservoir has the capacity to hold 1.9 billion gal., providing Atlanta residents with a much-needed additional source of freshwater.
Occoquan, Va.
The mined-out quarry pit was purchased by the local municipal water treatment authority to provide storage capacity. Vulcan retains the adjacent, active quarry.
Crystal Lake, Ill.
This sand and gravel operation was reclaimed and turned into a lake and recreation park facility for the community.
Stafford, Va.
The reclamation plans include a 10-billion-gal. water storage facility for Stafford County.