BulletinMinistry of Natural ResourcesPublished: July 17, 2026
Two fined $30,000 for unlicensed sand extraction near Madoc
A landowner and a contractor pleaded guilty after MNR found almost 23,000 tonnes of sand removed from an unlicensed pit; one must also rehabilitate the site.
Summary
What happened
- In August 2022 MNR staff inspected land in Madoc and found an unlicensed aggregate pit where sand was being removed.
- The court heard approximately 22,756 tonnes of sand were excavated between Aug. 26, 2020 and May 10, 2023 (about 1,340 dump truck loads).
By the numbers
- Total fines: $30,000 ($20,000 to landowner William Willemsen; $10,000 to contractor Lyndon McCann).
- Revenue from invoices obtained was about $30,000.
Court outcome
- Both individuals pleaded guilty under the Aggregate Resources Act in Ontario Court of Justice, Belleville, on April 27, 2026.
- Willemsen was also ordered to rehabilitate the pit site.
Why it matters
- The Aggregate Resources Act requires a licence or permit to operate a pit or quarry on public or private land; landowners and contractors must check with the Ministry before extracting aggregate.
How to report
- To report a natural resource problem or provide information: MNR TIPS line 1‑877‑847‑7667 (toll free).
- To call anonymously: Crime Stoppers 1‑800‑222‑TIPS.
- More info: ontario.ca/MNRTips
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Source: Ontario Newsroom