Construction Materials Association of California Issues First Survey On Reclaimed Land Use; Environmental Restoration a Priority for California's Sand and Gravel Operators.

News Editors

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 11, 2002

California's sand and gravel industry restores land to primarily conservation uses, according to a new study released today by the Construction Materials Association of California (CMAC).

The Reclamation Survey, a pilot study of the reclamation activities of the members of the Construction Materials Association of California, finds that after land has produced sand and gravel products for constructing roads and buildings, it is reclaimed to 44 different uses. Conservation is the primary land usage, including open space, wetlands, wildlife habitat, and native revegetation. California's sand and gravel producers are a major resource for creating and restoring thousands of acres of wetlands and wildlife habitat.

The Survey found that Recreation was the second most prevalent land use, followed by Agriculture and Grazing. In addition, the study also supports the findings of the California Office of Mine Reclamation that over 50 square miles of land from aggregate production statewide were reclaimed during the 1990s.

"We are delighted to have a qualitative report that characterizes our modern day industry practices and demonstrates our commitment to land stewardship," said Linda Falasco, executive director of CMAC.

The study was produced by e concepts, a natural resources consulting firm based in Burlingame, Calif.

Copies of the Survey, and a detailed brochure on reclamation activities, are available from the Construction Materials Association of California, 1029 "J" St., Sacramento, CA 95814, or call 916/554-1000.