North East Quarry, others earn significant recognitions

NSSGA honors Martin Marietta sites during annual awards

Every year, the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) recognizes companies and individuals in the mining industry who have made remarkable strides in terms of community, leadership, safety and environmental sustainability. 

This year, Martin Marietta took home several significant distinctions. 

“Martin Marietta’s performance at this year’s NSSGA Awards was again tremendous,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Jim Nickolas, who serves as NSSGA’s vice chair/treasurer and will serve as the organization’s chair beginning in March. “This awards program considers the safest, most productive and most community-focused operations in the industry, so to achieve what we have for a fourth consecutive year is truly meaningful.” 

The East Division’s North East Quarry earned what is arguably the most impressive award, taking home platinum honors in the Environmental Excellence category. 

Jay Nivens, regional manager for environmental services, says winning this award proves Martin Marietta is dedicated to helping the environment. 

“This confirms one of our core values here at the company. Environmental stewardship is not just a catchy statement. It is a dedicated focus we have daily throughout all levels of our business,” Nivens said. “This award shows that our company is committed to leading the aggregate industry in advancing the health of our planet.” 

And, on the ground, it means even more. 

For Plant Manager Kevin Cantalupo, the crew’s ecological efforts are more than just standard practice – they’re personal. 

“North East Quarry is situated less than four miles upstream from the head of the Chesapeake Bay. We have all spent our lives fishing and recreating on and around it,” he said. “The bay’s health has been important to us for generations.” 

In addition to North East Quarry earning a platinum award, several other sites measured top honors as well.

Auburn Quarry, Bridgeport Stone, Broken Bow Sand and Gravel, Garner Quarry, Guernsey Quarry, Mallard Creek Quarry and Webberville Sand and Gravel each took home a gold medal for their sustainability work with Anderson Creek Quarry, Durham Mine, Hondo Quarry, Hugo Quarry, Mill Creek Limestone and Sunflower Quarry all earning silver. 

Overall, Martin Marietta earned over 60 recognitions for its environmental practices during this year’s awards. 

However, environmental efforts are not the only category in which the site exceeded standards. 

Adding to their trophy case, North East Quarry also won a gold distinction in the Community Relations category. 

North East’s two awards were influenced heavily by the team’s work with a local charity group, the Fair Hill Nature Center. 

Connecting the values of community and environmental stewardship, this nonprofit is dedicated to environmental education and connecting people with nature. North East Quarry donated $5,000 to the organization in support of an outdoor education program for elementary students. 

“We are equally committed to investing in the success of the community in which we operate,” Cantalupo said. “We frequently collaborate with schools and civic groups to provide mining education that promotes the importance of environmental stewardship, sustainability, and the significant and positive impact of the aggregates industry.” 

Again, North East Quarry was not alone in this field. More than 30 Martin Marietta sites took home a distinction in the Community Relations category with Augusta Quarry, Hunter Stone and Stamper Mine all winning gold and Hatton Quarry, Lakeside Operations and North Austin Quarry earning silver. 

Area Production Manager Chris Bollinger, who oversees Stamper Mine, said he was excited when he learned that the Central Division site had won and said receiving the award left him with an “unbelievable feeling.” 

“There is never a shortage of opportunities to help others in our community,” he said. “Our community involvement is more than just financial contributions. Employees enjoy participating in community activities because it gives them a sense of fulfillment. When it comes to helping others a few hours of our time can make a big impact.” 

In total, Martin Marietta took home 96 NSSGA Awards this year and 209 award certifications, more than any other NSSGA member company.