More sand is being removed from sections of the Rio Minho, the longest river in Jamaica, than is being replaced - so says the findings of a sedimentary basin resource assessment (SEBRA) study.

The research, conducted by the Mines and Geology Division (MGD) in collaboration with the Department of Geography and Geology of the University of the West Indies, also identified storage areas along the river, where sediments are deposited, as suitable for quarrying.

Needs effective management

The study was initiated following an assessment of the Rio Minho river system by the MGD, which showed a need for effective management.

The study sought to determine whether the extraction of sediments along the Rio Minho through quarrying was outstripping replenishment and to identify sections within the storage areas (terraces) which could be quarried.

An assessment of the findings of the SEBRA study precipitated the hosting of a quarry operators' seminar by the MGD, titled 'Sustainable Course: Quarrying, along the Rio Minho River - A New Way Forward', held recently at the Hotel Versailles in May Pen, Clarendon.

Possible suspension of operations

The seminar informed major stakeholders (quarry operators, the business sector, relevant government agencies and community groups) of the conclusions of the study.

It revealed the possibility of a suspension of some quarry operations along the Rio Minho to allow for the replenishment of sand and gravel.

Quarrying along the Rio Minho is critical to controlling flooding and provides large volumes of sand and other aggregates for the building and construction industry in Jamaica, particularly the western region.