November 2021 Executive Director’s Blog

Hello Stone, Sand & Gravel members.  I hope everyone is having a great fall and productive late year production season.

While we are all extremely tied of dealing with it, just when we think we have turned the corner and have COVD behind us, there continue to be surprises.  Currently we continue to deal with the City and County of Denver and their implementation of vaccination requirements.  The fact that they are unwilling to acknowledge or accept 2/week negative test results as a responsible option, makes if very difficult on suppliers and contractors.  We are very much in favor of vaccinations, but also believe the testing option respects individual freedom and still addresses the safety concerns.  We continue to work closely with our Construction Industry Coalition (CIC) partners in this effort.

Regarding CSSGA specific news, we are currently working very closely with the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (DRMS) to develop new safety training videos that will be posted free of charge on the state’s YouTube channel.  We strongly believe in effective training, and this is a great way to get involved.  Parts of the videos may also be used to upgrade the successful national safety training program of the Mine Safety Institute (MSI), which is a partnership between DRMS and CSSGA.  The entire membership of CSSGA is very committed to continuously improve the effectiveness of safety training, and this is just one more example of that commitment.

We also held several events with DRMS staff and/or members of the Mined Land Reclamation Board (MLRB).  This included an industry tour on Oct 27, consisting of a presentation on mining and downstream material usages, and luncheon, and a mine tour.  This year we toured the Martin Marietta “Spec Agg” quarry in Golden, CO.  As this site also includes an asphalt and concrete plant, it is a great way to explain how the entire supply chain process works.  Thanks to John Anderson and Dave Jordan with Martin Marietta for the great tour, those with DRMS and MLRB for participating, and our partners at CAPA and CRMCA.

Additionally, on Nov 2 we held a Roundtable with DRMS staff.   The purpose of this meeting was to discuss changes DRMS is seeing in regulation, the future of the Division/industry, and identify areas that operators are struggling with and where DRMS can more effectively serve the industry.  While the meeting focused on big picture items and not specific permitting issues, the open dialog was a great opportunity to engage in discussions that can continue to move the mining industry forward.

We also turn our sites on the Annual Conference at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs on Nov 18 & 19.  We have a great line up of industry speakers, as well as entertainment for the Presidents Banquet.  As our overall theme this year is “Reengagement” we all look forward to personal interaction and speaking face to face with others in the industry.  I hope to see all of you there.

Thanks, and don’t hesitate to contact Annelise or myself with questions.  Be safe!

Todd R. Ohlheiser, CAE

Executive Director

Colorado Stone, Sand & Gravel Association