see directions below
Geology rocks! If you have a rock lover, or big truck lover in your house, don’t miss Omya’s Middlebury Quarry Open House! For a rock’n good time come see what Omya does and learn more about Vermont’s geology and mining!
Rain or Shine Event
Directions: Omya’s Middlebury Quarry access road (1975 Private Road) is located on the east side of Rt. 7, 2 miles south of Middlebury, VT or 1 mile north of the Rt. 125 & Rt. 7 intersection to East Middlebury. The turn (between Connor Homes & Foster Motors) will be prominently marked on the day of the event.
Want to know more? Read on for answers all your questions (like how’s invited (everyone), how long tours will take, and what to expect.
FAQ
Who is invited?
The open house is free and designed for all ages. Bring your kids and your grandparents for a fun and educational day. Meet our quarry contractors SLC (Sherburne Limestone Contractors), ore haulers L.F. Carter Trucking, and Omya employees from every facet of our mineral processing business. Shelly Snyder joins us again this year with her Traveling Rock Show for all to enjoy. Middlebury Rescue Service will also be hand. Omya will provide a light lunch and refreshments catered by Fitz Vogt & Associates and tents for your comfort are supplied by Celebration Rentals.
How will I get into the quarry?
Buses from STA of Vermont/betcha Inc. will shuttle visitors into the open-pit quarry. There is one stop in the quarry where the buses will disembark and pick up visitors.
How long will the tour take?
Allow 30 minutes if you just wish to ride into and out of the quarry without disembarking. Beyond that, visitors may spend as much time in the quarry as they wish between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Buses will be shuttling continuously between the loading point and stops in the quarry. In the quarry three activity areas are within walking distance. Talk to experts at each area about minerals and geology, drilling and blasting, and quarry history and environmental stewardship. Be sure to collect a souvenir.
What happens if it rains?
The event will take place rain or shine. Many activities, in addition to the quarry tours will take place in and around the crusher building. Since activities can take place inside (not heated) or outside, dress accordingly. Please wear appropriate footwear to traverse the gravel covered quarry ground that can rival mud-season like conditions depending on the weather.
What amenities will be available?
Restroom facilities (one handicapped accessible) are provided by Dundon Plumbing & Heating. Hand sanitizers are also provided.
Who is able to participate?
There will be a handicapped accessible bus. The floor in the quarry is relatively flat but is gravel covered as is the activities area around the crusher building. We welcome you to come and participate.
May I bring a group such as Scouts or Seniors?
Groups are welcome! If you wish to visit as a group, we suggest that you contact us at 802-776-8615.
How can I get more information?
Call our Community Feedback Line at 802-770-7644 or Mary-Kaye at 802-776-8615 (email [email protected]).