In 2015 Old Hazeldell Quarry LLC applied to Lane County to rezone 107 acres of forested land and elk calving ground on TV Butte for gravel mining.
We stopped them.
Now they're trying to do it again, and we need your help.
Hey nature lovers! For the first weekend of May, Oakridge will be gathering to celebrate the 71st Annual Tree Planting Festival. In that spirit, we at Save TV Butte will be coming together on Saturday to celebrate the preservation of the town and environment we've all come to cherish.
No matter who you are, the Old Hazeldell Quarry poses a danger to everyone in our community.
The quarry plans to remove 16.9 million tons of rock, potentially blasting harmful dust into Oakridge and risking diseases like cancer, stroke, and even diabetes.
Air pollution
The TV Butte quarry risks Oakridge's water, with them planning to use over 5,000 gallons per day and threatening Salmon Creek and other waterways with pollution.
Water impact
Oakridge's tourism, our lifeblood, hangs in the balance. Old Hazeldell Quarry promises just 10 jobs in exchange for destroying our economy, with no guarantee they'll go to locals.
Economic fallout
- Dec, 2015
Old Hazeldell Quarry, LLC proposes the "Old Hazeldell Quarry" project by applying to rezone 46 acres of forested land on TV Butte for gravel mining. The proposal sparks concern among residents of Oakridge, who worry about potential negative impacts on air quality, noise pollution, wildlife habitat, and the scenic value of the butte.
- Apr 2016
Then known as "Save TV Butte," our organization forms to organize opposition to the quarry project. We hold work to raise awareness, organize Oakridge citizens, and submit Oakridge's opinion to the Lane County Planning Commission expressing our concerns.
- 2017
The Lane County Planning Commission holds numerous hearings on the quarry proposal, featuring expert testimony from both sides. The vast majority of public comments submitted are in opposition to the project. Concerns about air quality, noise, wildlife, and scenic value remain at the forefront of the opposition.
- Oct, 2020
After years of deliberation and public input, the Lane County Board of Commissioners votes 3-2 to deny the quarry permit. They ackgnowledge potential negative impacts on air quality, water resources, and wildlife, outweighing any economic benefits. This decision is a major victory for Oakridge.
- Aug, 2023
After having their permit denied, Old Hazeldell Quarry, LLC appeals the Court of Appeals decision to the Oregon Supreme Court. They argue the lower court misinterpreted the law and failed to adequately consider the economic benefits of the project. The Supreme Court has yet to announce whether they will hear the case.
- 2024, Onward
The future of TV Butte remains uncertain. While the Lane County decision and Court of Appeals ruling are victories for conservation efforts, the ongoing legal battle adds an element of uncertainty. Save TV Butte remains vigilant, monitoring the situation and prepared to defend the butte if necessary.
Crown Properties aims to bring this to Oakridge.
Gallery
Cancer causing silica dust
Pollution of our water
Tourism and lost jobs
