Hello, I am a Downsview…

Hello,

I am a Downsview resident who lives quite close to the mount of dirt that has been quietly piling up over the years. Despite the fact that the area in question is considered an industrial zone, it is surrounded by residential neighbourhoods that are paying the price for someone else’s greed with constant air pollution that wasn’t there years ago.

This behaviour is unacceptable and irresponsible for the environment and for the high paying taxpayers who have to live with this mess nearby.

The very least, the party in question should follow these basic requirements:

4.2.1 Enclosures

Covered storage of very fine materials with a high dust emitting potential should be considered especially where emissions may impact a human receptor. Silos, bunkers or hoppers should be used. Enclosures (full or partial) for inactive piles are effective in reducing wind erosion and controlling fugitive dust emissions from storage piles.

4.2.2 Barrier and Shelter

Wind erosion can be reduced by locating storage piles against one or more barriers made of durable materials such as cement block. Very fine materials should be stored in a sheltered area.

4.2.3 Location, Height and Slope of Piles

Storage piles should be located away from the prevailing downwind site boundaries where practical, or in designated areas with windbreaks and restricted traffic, and as far away from residents and other human receptors as possible. Wind effects can be reduced by keeping the storage pile heights below the level of the windbreak. Limiting the height and slope of storage piles can reduce wind erosion and entrainment. For example, a flat shallow storage pile is subject to less wind turbulence than one with a tall conical shape. (which I believe is what we have at Geosoils)

4.2.4 Covers on Piles

Open storage piles may be covered with durable materials such as tarpaulins or plastic. For piles that are inactive, a vegetative cover may also be used. When covers are used, they should be anchored to prevent them from being blown away.

4.2.5 Water/Dust Suppressant Application

Water or dust suppressant that is compatible with the stored material can be applied to the surface of the storage pile to reduce wind erosion.

4.3.1 Paved Surfaces (including Paved Roads)

Dust deposits on paved surfaces can be re-dispersed by wind or by truck movements. Dust emissions from paved surfaces can be minimized by following practices that include:

• Control movement and handling of fine materials to prevent spillages onto paved surfaces.

• Regular cleaning of paved surfaces, using a mobile sweeper in conjunction with vacuuming, or a water truck.

4.3.4 Road Maintenance/Cleaning

Any mud, dirt, or debris on paved roads should be removed on a regular basis. A dry street sweeper/vacuum system can be used, although it is more effective to use water flush in combination. If water is used, runoff should be controlled in order not to enhance track-out by saturating the surface of adjacent roads.

4.3.6 Covers on Truck Loads

All vehicles entering and leaving the site and carrying a load that may generate dust should be covered whenever feasible, except during loading and unloading of materials. Bulk materials transported by trucks may be covered with durable materials such as tarpaulins or screening material that are extended over the truck bed and secured to the truck.

4.5.1 Windbreak Measures

Berms, tree lines or vegetation should be used in the surrounding areas of the yard. Professional horticultural advice should be sought regarding suitable species for any specific site