A Bracebridge-based company has been fined $2,000 for the illegal operation of a pit. AJL Janssen Landscaping Limited, owned by Anthony Janssen, has been fined $2,000 after being found guilty of operating a pit on private land without a licence. Court heard that rock was removed from a farm on Highway 141, located in Watt Township near the village of Raymond. The pit was operated without a licence for four days between 2012 and 2013.
A Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry aggregate inspector and conservation officer observed the illegal activity. Their investigation determined that no licence had been issued under the Aggregate Resources Act for the activity and the rocks were being removed for commercial purposes. Justice of the Peace Anne Marie Puusaari heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Bracebridge, on February 2, 3 and 12, 2015. The public is reminded that, under the Aggregate Resources Act and its regulations, a licence is needed to operate a pit on private land in parts of Ontario designated under the Act. The conditions and standards set out in the licence minimize adverse environmental impacts from aggregate extraction and provide for the proper management of aggregate resources in Ontario.
To report a natural resources violation, call the MNRF TIPS line at 1-877-847-7667 toll-free any time or contact your local ministry office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).