There is no talk in Menomonie, Wisc., of extending a moratorium against new frac sand operations. The current ban expires Oct. 31.
Meanwhile, Dunn County officials have proposed new regulations that would toughen permitting of industrial sand mines. The County Board could vote on the issue as early as Nov. 13
What follows is a partial list of measures from the proposed new zoning amendment:
- No frac sand mines allowed in exclusive agriculture districts.
- Proposed sites must first gain acceptance into "non-metallic mining overlay district."
- Accepted sites must obtain operating permit, with conditions, from Board of Adjustment.
- $5,000 application fee.
- Operator must submit a detailed hydrogeologic report prior to permitting.
- Operator to monitor air for pollutants.
- County reviews permit after two years and every five years after that.
- Hours of weekday and Saturday mining operations can be limited.
- No mining operations Sundays and holidays.
- Operator must assure county of its financial ability to reclaim the land after mining.
- Mining and reclamation shall be conducted in a manner that does not lower the groundwater table.
Star Tribune photo by Curt Brown
