October Executive Director’s Update
Hello CSSGA Members. As fall is upon us, 2024 is too quickly coming to an end. However, there is a significant part of the construction season to go. I know many are busy with paving and roadway projects before the ground freezes at year end. I have listed a few of the updates and events to occur between now and year end.
Safety Training Enhancements. At CSSGA, we have some exciting news to report as the board recently approved funding for a significant upgrade to our Part 46 training thru the Mine Safety Institute (MSI). We have contracted with an educational training company named Mission Fuel to completely update our training and make it all available on a Learning Management platform. While aggressive, we are targeting to be completed and available for members sometime in late Quarter 1 of 2025.
Election Outcomes. As the election is now only days away, we will be sending information on election results to members in November. We have also recently sent information on candidates CSSGA endorses at the state level. These are the candidates that are most likely to support our industry and help us solve problems. Please reach out if you have yet to see this important information. Either way, make sure to vote. It is an important right, and we must all exercise this opportunity to have a say in the future of Colorado and the United States.
Annual Conference. Make sure you register for the Annual Conference on Nov 21 & 22 at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. We have a full event planned that includes sessions on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Economic Forecasts, Mine permitting challenges, Concrete technical advancements, and great opportunities for networking with suppliers and industry professionals. You won’t want to miss out on the learning opportunities from this event. Hope to see you there.
I also recently wrote an article for the Colorado Public Works Journal (CPWJ) that I am resharing in this blog. If you haven’t received the Journal, read below for this overview. The construction aggregate mining industry is a key part of making Colorado work. I am proud to be part of this industry, as I know all members are. Please reach out if you have any thoughts on the article.
The Vital Role of Aggregates in Infrastructure
Aggregates, which include stone, sand, and gravel, are foundational to the construction and maintenance of Colorado’s infrastructure. They are key components in the production of concrete, asphalt, and other materials crucial for building roads, bridges, airports, and various other public and private projects. The state’s rugged terrain and rapidly growing population necessitate a robust and reliable transportation network, which relies heavily on the consistent supply of quality aggregates.
Supporting Colorado’s Transportation Network
Transportation infrastructure is the backbone of Colorado’s economy, facilitating the movement of goods, services, and people. Highways, railways, and airports all require significant quantities of aggregates for construction and maintenance. For example, the construction of a single mile of interstate highway can require up to 38,000 tons of aggregates. Without a steady supply from local sources, the cost and environmental impact of transporting these materials from farther distances would be prohibitively high.
The CSSGA works closely with state and local governments, as well as other industry stakeholders, to ensure that the supply chain for aggregates remains stable and efficient. This involves advocating for policies that support the sustainable extraction and use of these materials, while also addressing environmental concerns and land-use challenges.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The aggregate mining industry is a significant contributor to Colorado’s economy. It provides thousands of jobs in mining, transportation, and construction sectors, while also supporting secondary industries such as equipment manufacturing and maintenance. The CSSGA emphasizes the importance of this industry not only for its direct economic contributions but also for its role in enabling broader economic growth by supporting infrastructure development.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
One of the key challenges facing the aggregate mining industry is balancing the need for materials with environmental and community impacts. The CSSGA is committed to promoting sustainable practices within the industry. This includes the rehabilitation of mined land, reducing the environmental footprint of mining operations, and engaging with local communities to ensure that their concerns are addressed.
Through initiatives like the Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship Awards, CSSGA recognizes companies that go above and beyond in implementing innovative practices to reduce environmental impact and enhance the sustainability of their operations. These efforts are critical in maintaining the social license to operate, ensuring that the industry can continue to meet Colorado’s growing infrastructure needs without compromising the state’s natural beauty and ecological health.
Conclusion
The Colorado Stone, Sand & Gravel Association is at the forefront of ensuring that the aggregate mining industry remains a vital and sustainable part of Colorado’s economy. By advocating for responsible practices and supporting the industry’s critical role in infrastructure development, CSSGA helps to build and maintain the transportation networks that are essential to the state’s economic prosperity and quality of life. As Colorado continues to grow and evolve, the importance of the aggregate mining industry, and the work of organizations like CSSGA, will only increase.
Thank you.
Todd R. Ohlheiser
Executive Director
Colorado Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (CSSGA)
Colorado Ready Mixed Concrete Association (CRMCA)
Cell: 303.882.6879
Office: 303.290.0303
todd@coloradocaa.org