CELA represents the Citizens Against Melrose Quarry (CAMQ) in various legal proceedings involving an existing quarry and a proposed new quarry in southeastern Ontario. In addition to public safety considerations and nuisance impacts, CAMQ members are primarily concerned that high-volume de-watering of the quarries may adversely affect the quantity and quality of local groundwater, which is the sole source of drinking water for nearby residents.

In relation to the existing quarry, an Environmental Review Tribunal decision in 2015 allowed CAMQ’s appeal against a water-taking permit, and imposed more stringent conditions to safeguard water resources. In relation to the proposed quarry, CAMQ members are presently involved in a public hearing before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal under the Aggregate Resources Act.