Local residents question quarry approval process amid water testing concerns

The Dickinson County Planning Commission convened on December 19, 2024, to address several key issues regarding local quarry operations and water safety concerns. The meeting focused on the implications of quarry activities on nearby water wells and the regulatory requirements for operators.

The discussion began with a member questioning the necessity of approvals for the quarry, particularly in light of the absence of wells in the immediate vicinity. Concerns were raised about the proximity of the quarry to residential areas, specifically noting a distance of approximately 200 feet from the edge of the quarry. A resident shared their positive experience with their well, stating it was the best they had ever had, with no water quality issues reported.

The conversation shifted to the potential impact of quarry operations on water safety. A participant suggested that well testing should be a standard practice, emphasizing that they had conducted tests twice since moving to the area, both yielding satisfactory results. Comparisons were made to the noise and environmental impacts of military operations at nearby Fort Riley, suggesting that quarry activities were not significantly more disruptive.

A critical point of contention arose regarding the regulatory framework governing the quarry. One member questioned why the quarry operator was being held to different standards compared to other projects, such as a recent wind energy initiative. The discussion highlighted a perceived inconsistency in the application of environmental regulations, with calls for the quarry operator to adhere to the same guidelines established in their conditional use permit.

The meeting concluded with a proposal for the quarry operator to contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) for an assessment of any potential issues. The expectation was that if no problems were identified, the operator would communicate those findings to the commission.

Overall, the meeting underscored ongoing concerns about environmental safety and regulatory compliance in Dickinson County, particularly as they relate to local quarry operations. The commission's next steps will likely involve further discussions on regulatory consistency and the outcomes of the proposed well assessments.