The type of sand that is being targeted in Wisconsin is quartz sand, also known as silica sand. Being that the sand is from quartz, it is very strong, meaning that it will not break apart under pressure, also the sand particles are very uniform, close to being circular. This sand has a real value and is used in many applications that one might not typically think about. First and foremost it is used in the making of glass, basically every type. This sand is also used to clean casting surfaces at factories such as foundries. The sand is also used in ceramics, the construction industry, and in adhesives.
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| http://wcwrpc.org/frac-sand-factsheet.pdf |
Pictured above is a map of the state of Wisconsin, the map illustrates where the sand mines are located and where the sand deposits are. As the map shows, there is sand in southern Wisconsin, but it is more scattered and there is not as much, making western Wisconsin the obvious place to mine. One thing to take into consideration when looking at this map is the fact that it was made in 2011, the number of frac plants has increased. There is economic benefits that come along with the mines, and that has brought with it a good deal of support.
Like any topic, there is people on both sides of the issue, there are some concerns about the negative affects of the mines. The possibility of contaminated ground water, nearby residents are also concerned about the air borne affects, for example respiratory issues. Another large concern is the affect that the dump trucks have on the roads, country roads are not made to withstand the constant loads of sand that are being transported on them.
Sources
- http://wcwrpc.org/frac-sand-factsheet.pdf
- http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/mines/sand.html
- http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Mines/ISMMap.html
