Project Overview
A new wood chip production facility is being proposed on the site of the Bald Mountain Quarry in west Saint John. J.D. Irving, Limited is proposing to repurpose part of the property for this project, which is the subject of a separate EIA being filed concurrently with the provincial Department of Environment. The Bald Mountain Quarry site is close to the mill. This project will reduce carbon emissions and reduce costs associated with more efficient chip deliveries. Refurbishment and extension of the site’s rail capability will enable pulpwood to be received at the site via rail.
Project Benefits
Carbon Footprint
Reduced use of diesel flail chippers and less vehicle emissions resulting in a smaller carbon footprint.
Reduced Waste
The chip facility will allow us to process treetops (pulpwood) that may otherwise be left in the woods and the bark will be used for green energy at the mill.
Construction
The construction of the chip facility is expected to provide employment and contract opportunities for local companies and individuals.Project Location
Site history
The chip facility will be built on the site of a previous JDI sawmill, the South Bay Sawmill which was in operation from 1955 to 1966.
The site has operated as a rock quarry by Gulf Operators Ltd. since 2000, called Bald Mountain Quarry.
This won’t be the first time this site has had wood chipping operations. Wood chipping occurred here when the original sawmill operated and more recently from 2008 to 2010 on an infrequent basis.
Mitigation
Sound
The chipper will be housed in a building specifically engineered to reduce noise.
Dust
The chip facility is housed inside a building to prevent excess dust.
Lighting
The lighting is engineered to minimize the impact on local residents.
Traffic
An existing private JDI road, constructed in 2006, will be used for chip deliveries up to 24 hours per day, avoiding additional use of public roads.