The aggregate industry began gravel operations in and along the Coquitlam River in the 1950s. Currently there are three gravel operations active in the watershed. Aggregate is produced in or near almost every City and town in Canada, generating an annual per capita consumption of aggregate of about 10 to 15 tons, with up to 80% of aggregate production being used for concrete. The industry is comprised of three main sectors: construction sand and gravel, industrial sand and gravel, and crushed rock. Crushed stone and sand and gravel are most often used by the construction industry. Aggregates made by the industry are used in to provide:
- 87% or more of concrete for bridges, tunnels, dams, drainage pipes, roads, sidewalks, high rises, home foundations and driveways,
- 95% of hot mix asphalt pavements,
- 87% or more of paving stones and patio slabs; and,
- Foundation fill and surfacing material for roads, parks, playing fields, dams and ports.
