Capital Projects 2026 - Waste Management Environmental Assessment Update
The Municipality of Greenstone continues to advance its Waste Management Environmental Assessment (EA) to identify a long-term waste management solution for the region. This provincially regulated process evaluates potential environmental impacts and includes engineering studies, public consultation, and Indigenous consultation.
Following Stage 2 consultations, the Mineral Lake Site (Site #9) was identified by First Nation communities as a preferred site for further study. Located south of Highway 11 between Geraldton and Longlac, the site was not presented during the Stage 2 Public Open Houses because First Nation consultations were still underway. It has since been added to the project information available on the Municipality's website and will be presented during Stage 3 public consultation.
No decision has been made on a future landfill location. The Mineral Lake site is currently undergoing detailed engineering and environmental studies to determine whether it is suitable for landfill development and to identify any potential environmental impacts. Studies include archaeological, geotechnical, hydrogeological, surface water, air and noise, and ecological (flora and fauna) assessments. Approximately $175,000 has been allocated in 2026 to complete this fieldwork.
What's Next?
Stage 3 public consultation is anticipated to begin in 2027, providing residents, Indigenous communities, and stakeholders with an opportunity to review the preferred site(s) and waste management options before any decisions are made.
Following completion of all technical studies and consultation, the Environmental Assessment Report will be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks for review and approval.
This work is an important step in planning for Greenstone's long-term waste management needs, ensuring compliance with provincial requirements, protecting the environment, and supporting continued waste disposal services for municipal residents and neighbouring First Nation communities.
More information and maps of identified potential sites are available HERE.