The life of a quarry begins long before the first shovel of earth is turned. First, a location with sufficient amounts of quality rock must be located. This site must be located conveniently near primary markets for the product.
Geological studies and test drilling will help determine if the rock is there. Once the reserve is proven, then the permitting process begins.
To obtain the required state and local permits, the operators must show their plans to operate the quarry in an environmentally and socially acceptable manner.
Development planning then ensures that earth is moved as little as possible and that access to the rock will be ensured as the site develops.
Updated 18-Mar-05 -jwk-