In 1993 Brian and Jock partitioned off 104 acres of land from the Dalton Ranch for the purpose of opening a basalt rock quarry. In 1994, application was made to Polk County to have the 104 acres designated as a protected site for mineral and aggregate extraction. This was approved on 3 August, 1994. At this time, the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) approved the Dalton's Operating and Reclamation Permit. In 1997, 16.8 more acres were added to the operating area, providing an expanded business and stockpile area
The rock in the quarry site is igneous rock of the Siletz River Volcanic type. It was formed by successive volcanic flows that hardened into basalt characterized by large tabular bodies of columnar rock. Rock of this type is considered highly suitable as base rock for roads and construction as well as asphalt mix.
Dalton Rock has won a high level of acceptance. The quarry is certified by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) as a source for asphalt rock, base rock, and riprap.
Updated 26-Mar-07 -jwk-