DNR Looks For Public Input On Frac Sand Mining Study

The Department of Natural Resources is starting to gather public input as it embarks on a yearlong study of the of the frac sand mining industry.

After a citizen petition drive last fall, the Natural Resources Board gave the green light for a strategic analysis of the frac sand mining industry. This week, the DNR announced it’s using an online public survey to help decide what aspects of sand mining should be studied.

“We have this draft outline of topics and we’d really like to get the public feedback on, ‘Is this the list? Are there other topics that we should be addressing?’” said Dave Seibert, drector of environmental analysis at the DNR.

So far, topics include impacts on air and water quality, property values, and health and safety. Public comments will be accepted until April 20.