Burlington to give musician Sarah Harmer key to the city as she fights quarry expansion
Singer-songwriter Sarah Harmer is set to receive the key to the City of Burlington in recognition of her leadership in the fight against quarry expansion on Mount Nemo. This honour comes on the heels of her Humanitarian Award at the 2025 Juno Awards, which celebrated her efforts to protect the natural world.
Harmer co-founded Protecting Escarpment Rural Land (PERL) in 2005 to oppose a proposed quarry on Mount Nemo, part of the Niagara Escarpment. The quarry, owned by Nelson Aggregates, is located in rural north Burlington and has faced opposition due to concerns about endangering species habitats, wetlands, and drinking water sources.
The fate of the quarry is currently being decided by the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT), with a hearing that began on March 4 and is scheduled for 60 days. Harmer has been actively involved in the proceedings, along with other local advocates and experts presenting their testimonies both for and against the expansion.
The proposed expansion would encroach on the habitat of the endangered Jefferson salamander, as well as bring rock blasting closer to residential areas and pipelines. Concerns have also been raised about the environmental impact of increased truck traffic and potential effects on groundwater quality.
The City of Burlington has expressed opposition to the expansion, passing a motion urging the province to deny Nelson Aggregates’ proposal. However, proponents of the project argue that the quarry is essential for sourcing dolostone, a material used in construction projects like roads and bridges.
As the OLT hearing progresses, with approximately 40 witnesses expected to testify, the focus remains on safeguarding water and air quality, community safety, and protecting natural habitats. Advocates like Gord Pinard of Conserving our Rural Ecosystems are working to raise awareness about the potential consequences of the quarry expansion.
The outcome of the hearing will have far-reaching implications for the environment and community in Burlington, making it a crucial decision that will shape the future of Mount Nemo and its surrounding areas. Harmer’s dedication to this cause serves as a testament to the importance of preserving our natural landscapes for future generations.
