Vineland Quarries Experimental Vineyard

Previous to this experimental vineyard, the traditional method of rehabilitating a quarry was to return the land to agricultural uses.  Walker Industries has rehabilitated 60 acres to crop land.

When looking to rehabilitate Vineland Quarries' land, Walker Industries decided to enhance the end-use by trying to create a vineyard. 

With the great co-operation of University of Guelph, K.L. Bellamy & Associates, Vailmont Vineyards and Donahue Forest Products Inc. (Abitibi Consolidated Inc.) a 10 acre parcel was planted with 8 vinifera varieties and we are looking forward to the results of our first harvest (fall of 2002).

This exciting and innovative new method of rehabilitating land has been recognized by the Aggregate Producers' Association of Ontario with their 2001 "Progressive Rehabilitation Award" and by the Niagara Escarpment Commission with their 2002 "Niagara Escarpment Achievement Award".

We are extremely pleased to announce that the Aggregate Producers' Association of Ontario (APAO) has awareded Vineland Quarries with the 2004 Progressive Rehabilitation Award!

An additional three hectares of vines are scheduled for planting in the spring of 2005.  In 2004 Vineland Quarries prepared land for future plantings by placing the soil back on a three percent grade in a south facing direction.  Following proper contouring, the land was planted with a special mixture of vegetation known to help enrich the soil with vital nutrients future growth of grape vines.

     Pinot noir grapes grow where the rock          APAO Awards Breakfast ~ Friday, February 25, 2005

          was quarried a few years ago.                              Annual General Meeting, Ottawa, Canada

                                                                           Pictured to the left is Ken Lucyshyn, Vice President &

                                                                                 General Manager, Aggregates & Construction

                                                                                           accepting  this prestigious honour from                                                                                          Richard Seibel, Chairman of APAO.