Located in the town of Manlius, New York, the Galster Pit
is operated by T.H. Kinsella, Inc. the
company was awarded a National Reclamation Award by the Interstate Mining
Compact Commission. Approximately
36 acres, 20 feet deep, were excavated for gravel above and below the water
table at the pit. Kinsella instituted procedures to protect the environment
surrounding the pit, stockpiled topsoil to allow for re-vegetation of all
disturbed areas, and created a lake from the exposed aquifer. Huge boulders were
saved and, along with heavy timber posts, provide barricades in specified areas.
Before reclamation |
After reclamation |
The lake is a limited recreational facility for fishing and
canoeing. A decked waterfront area is ideal for picnics, volleyball, golf, and
other activities. The reclamation also created an oasis for wildlife such as
ducks, geese, blue herons, fox, raccoons, skunks, weasels, deer, wild turkeys,
and pheasants.
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