Ontario Construction News
The Ontario government is expanding Ontario Corps through a new partnership with the Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (OSSGA), giving the province access to additional construction equipment, industry expertise and volunteers during emergencies.
OSSGA represents more than 280 stone, sand and gravel producers and suppliers across Ontario. Through the partnership, the association can call on members to help make equipment and expertise available when communities require emergency assistance.
“Welcoming Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association to the Ontario Corps network means we can better facilitate access to heavy machinery and key expertise during emergencies,” Emergency Preparedness and Response Minister Jill Dunlop said.
Potential equipment available through OSSGA members includes excavators, bulldozers, trucks, snow-removal machinery, portable generators and pumps.
The equipment could be used for flood mitigation, debris removal, restoration work, transporting supplies and other emergency response activities, the province said.
Ontario Corps is designed to mobilize resources within 24 to 72 hours to communities affected by emergencies. Its network can deploy personnel, debris-removal equipment, supplies, flood barriers and drones.
Volunteers have recently supported emergency response efforts during summer flooding in Niagara Region and the 2026 wildland fire season.
“Ontario’s aggregate industry is deeply rooted in the communities where we operate,” said Dwayne McKenzie, chair of OSSGA and general manager of Nelson Aggregate Co. “Our members are proud to support emergency response efforts by providing expertise, equipment and labour when and where they are needed.”
OSSGA’s members collectively supply the majority of the approximately 164 million tonnes of aggregate used annually in Ontario to build and maintain infrastructure.
The association joins several other organizations in the Ontario Corps network, including the Ontario Road Builders’ Association, Ontario Mine Rescue, Niagara College, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario, The Home Depot Canada, Labatt Breweries of Canada and Uber Canada.
“By joining Ontario Corps, our members are strengthening their ability to support local response and recovery efforts while continuing to build positive, lasting relationships with municipalities, community leaders and residents across Ontario,” said Sharon Armstrong, OSSGA executive director.
The province is also developing a new Emergency Preparedness and Response Headquarters that will become the future home of Ontario Corps and serve as a 24/7 emergency command centre.
People with a range of skills and professional backgrounds can volunteer with Ontario Corps. Volunteers receive training and are matched with partner organizations based on their skills, interests and availability.
