There is a proposal by Thomas Cavanaugh Construction Limited to turn 44 acres of the Burnt Lands Alvar into a quarry. An alvar is a unique and rare biological environment based on a limestone plain with thin or no soil and, as a result, sparse grassland vegetation.  Most alvars occur either in Northern Europe or around the Great Lakes in North America. This stressed habitat supports a community of rare plants and animals, including species more commonly found on prairie grasslands.

The land is question is now part of a Nature Preserve abutting Burnt Lands Provincial Park.  Quarrying this parcel will change it forever. Let's preserve as much undeveloped land as we can for future generations to enjoy.

We, the undersigned respectfully ask Jeff Cavanagh and Phil White of Thomas Cavanaugh Construction to demonstrate good corporate citizenship and good community relations by withdrawing their proposal to the City of Ottawa and to donate this parcel to the Province of Ontario to become part of the Burnt Lands Provincial Park. It would be a wonderful added gesture if they paid all the costs involved in the transfer.