Mark Early

The Niagara Escarpment Commission approved a development permit for 2222699 Ontario Inc. to host water-skiing competitions on a pond in a former gravel pit.

Several neighbours, the Town of Mono, and the applicant appealed the decision.

The Hearing Officers found that the originally approved development of four 2.5-day events was too intensive and not a permitted use in the Escarpment Protection Area.

However, they recommended approval of a redefined proposal for two events per year with a maximum of 40 competitors, subject to strict conditions including a three-year review period, noise controls, and a fuel contingency plan.

The Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry accepted the recommendation and directed the issuance of the modified permit.

The applicant sheep farmer sought a determination that a municipal fill by-law restricted a normal farm practice, specifically his plan to import over 50,000 cubic metres of fill to level ravines for sheep pasture.

The Board found that the proposed large-scale fill operation was not a necessary or ancillary part of the agricultural operation, as the land improvement would be minimal.

Furthermore, the applicant lacked a demonstrable plan, and the proposal posed risks of water contamination, drainage issues, and erosion.

The application was dismissed.