A local volunteer group in Newfoundland’s Burin Peninsula is urging the provincial government to address the issue of an old dump located near a significant fossil site. The Fortune Head Ecological Reserve, positioned 1.6 kilometers from Fortune town, is renowned for showcasing the Cambrian Explosion that occurred 540 million years ago, marking a period of rapid organism development. The reserve boasts trace fossils in the cliffs, serving as a geological testament to ancient life forms.
However, the presence of the former dump, once utilized by the town for many years, is causing concern among members of the volunteer-led Fortune Head Eco Friends Incorporated. Carl Slaney, a former board member of the organization, expressed dismay over the erosion of the area, noting that old waste is resurfacing and falling into the ocean.
The ecological reserve was established to safeguard this coastal region. Slaney emphasized that the outdated garbage site, despite having undergone remediation to the standards of its time, is hindering tourism promotion efforts on the Burin Peninsula.
Shauna Brennan, chair of Fortune Head Eco Friends Incorporated, highlighted the inability of visitors to closely observe the trace fossils due to restrictions. She underscored the transformative significance of the Cambrian Explosion showcased at the Fortune Head Geology Centre. Brennan acknowledged that the historical practice of dumping garbage was prevalent, reflecting a lack of awareness about the site’s geological importance.
Brennan emphasized the necessity of cleaning up the dump to enhance the reserve’s appeal to visitors. Slaney mentioned past attempts by various groups to address the issue but stressed that it falls under the province’s jurisdiction. He referenced a site assessment report by engineering firm Stantec, commissioned by the Department of Environment and Climate Change, outlining two options for remediation: a complete cleanup costing approximately $10.9 million or a partial extraction for $3 million.
Highlighting the moral obligation to address the situation, Slaney emphasized the need for intervention to prevent further environmental degradation. Environment Minister Chris Tibbs, through a spokesperson, indicated that waste management is a priority for communities but stopped short of committing to action at the Fortune site.
Efforts to address the dump issue continue, with stakeholders advocating for necessary steps to preserve the ecological integrity of the area and maintain its significance for future generations.