Dear Supporters - here is the information promised in the previous update.

Sungro has submitted its request to the province to start strip-mining the peat from the Sugar Creek bog.  It is time for the public to tell them NO!

Please take the time to send a message to our provincial government indicting this is unacceptable.  This needs to be done before November 18th. Please send it to:

TO: Bryce.Wood@gov.mb.ca
SUBJECT: EAP 6236.00 Sun Gro Horticulture Sugar Creek Bog Peat Harvesting

Use the following text as a template - please use as much or as little you prefer:

I am writing as a concerned citizen to urge you to take immediate action to halt the proposed expansion of peat mining near Lake Winnipeg. As outlined in Sun Gro Horticulture’s Environmental Act Proposal (EAP) for the Sugar Creek sub-areas, this project presents serious environmental risks that will impact both our local communities and Manitoba’s natural resources for generations to come.

Peat Mining and Carbon Emissions
Peatlands serve as one of the most effective natural carbon sinks on the planet, storing more carbon per hectare than forests. The proposed Sugar Creek peat mine alone is projected to release over 12,201 tons of CO2 annually—the equivalent of deforesting 6,019 hectares of rainforest over the project’s 37-year lifespan. The cumulative effect of all existing and proposed peat mines in the Lake Winnipeg watershed—covering a combined 15,000 hectares—is equivalent to the carbon emissions produced by clear-cutting nearly 120,000 hectares of rainforest. Approving this expansion directly contradicts Manitoba’s commitments to climate action and carbon reduction.

Wildfire Risk to Local Communities
Peat mining has already proven detrimental to nearby communities. In 2020, a wildfire near Beaver Creek damaged properties and threatened residents, underscoring the increased fire risks that accompany peat extraction. Despite license conditions intended to mitigate these risks, peat mines have exacerbated fire hazards, and the current EAP does not address sufficient preventive measures. We cannot afford to jeopardize community safety with further expansion.

Degradation of Lake Winnipeg
Lake Winnipeg is already experiencing ecological stress, and peat mining contributes to the problem. The sedimentation ponds and drainage systems in place have been ineffective, as seen by the peat effluent that pollutes lake beaches. This impacts water quality and harms the lake’s aquatic ecosystems, which provide vital resources for local communities and wildlife. Allowing additional peat mining along Lake Winnipeg threatens not only our waterways but also Manitoba’s tourism, fishing, and recreational industries that depend on a healthy lake environment.

Failure of Reclamation Efforts
While the proposal promises site reclamation following peat extraction, successful restoration of peatlands to their original carbon-storing capacity remains highly uncertain. Reclamation efforts have repeatedly fallen short in restoring natural ecosystems. Without effective and verifiable restoration methods, the proposed peat mining would lead to permanent environmental damage.

Request for Action
In light of these pressing concerns, I urge you to advocate against the Sugar Creek peat mining expansion and similar projects along Lake Winnipeg. Our province should prioritize sustainable alternatives that preserve Manitoba’s natural landscapes and align with our climate commitments.

Please, for the health of our communities, our lake, and our environment, halt the expansion of peat mining along Lake Winnipeg.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I would be grateful for any information on how your office plans to address these concerns.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]