Polaris and US Concrete Case Study

Background on Polaris Minerals

An example of a successful community engagement is Polaris Minerals’ relationship with the Hupacasath and Ucluelet First Nations on the shore of the Alberni Inlet in Vancouver Island, Canada. Polaris Minerals (later renamed Polaris Materials) was engaged in the development and operation of construction aggregate quarries in Canada, specifically its Orca Sand and Gravel Quarry in British Columbia; Black Bear Project in close proximity to the Orca Quarry and a controlling interest in the Eagle Rock Quarry. Polaris has now been bought by US Concrete.

Joint Venture with First Nations

However, in 2002, Polaris had entered a joint venture with the two communities to develop the Eagle Rock Quarry, a project with a 100-year expected lifespan. Central to the partnership are significant equity positions owned by both First Nations, making them equal partners at the table.

Polaris executives have noted openly that each side brings capacities to the partnership that the other side does not have. For instance, Polaris brings knowledge of mining and capital, while the Hupacasath and the Ucluelet bring knowledge of the land and strong traditions of conservation. According to project leaders at Polaris, the environmental perspective provided by the First Nations had been the steppingstone to more efficient and sustainable mining practices.

Community Engagement and Benefits

Outside reports painted a picture of a genuine relationship between the First Nations and corporate staff that included hiking together, dinner parties and shared family picnics. These relationships created a platform for community building that surpassed the “get it done” motivation of the transactional model of development. This shared desire to enhance the community informed the community benefits agreements.

Acquisition by US Concrete

In 2017, when Polaris was acquired by US Concrete, the CEO, William J. Sandbrook, stated:

"We look forward to working with our First Nations partners in the Orca Quarry, the Kwakiutl Band and 'Namgis First Nation, as the strength of those relationships are a vital part of the success of the business, today and for the future."