While there is a great deal of research on certain aspects of aggregate extraction, such as its environmental and economic impact, its social status, and the need and nature of rehabilitation, its impact on active farming has seen little, if any focused study. This project, in its third year, is designed to address this gap and to provide best management practices to both agricultural and aggregate operators, as well as local and provincial governments, about how these industries can better work together. This presentation will provide an overview of ongoing research activities and findings, as well as preliminary recommendations and best practices. 

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Regan Zink is an Arrell Food Institute Scholar, Candidate Registered Professional Planner, and is currently completing her PhD in Rural Studies at the University of Guelph. She holds a Bachelor of Enivornmental Studies in Urban Planning and a Specialization in Urban Design from the University of Waterloo. Jeff Reicheld is a PhD candidate in the Rural Studies program at the University of Guelph, focusing primarily on the intersections of neoliberal political economy and environmentalism in agricultural land-use-decision making. Jeff's research looks for ways to increae adoption of agri-environmental behaviour and to promote land use practice that increases ecosystem services provision.