‘Not in my backyard’ mentality has to go
To the Editor:
I have been reading a lot about frac sand and mining lately. It appears to me that a lot of the “not in my backyard radical tree huggers” are very much misinformed.
Sand is used in our everyday lives, children’s sand boxes, volleyball courts, cement, black top, winter road sanding, building materials, bedding for dairy cows, etc., etc. It only becomes frac after a sizing process.
In my view, frac sand is and will be a small issue in Houston County. Without a rail spur line frac sand mining will not develop here. If that is not enough the “not in my backyard radical tree huggers” will make sure it doesn’t happen.
Wisconsin is moving forward on building spur lines, processing plants to load unit trains and billions of dollars will be made.
How do I know, this you ask? I have visited with a man from Wisconsin who owns a dump truck and has hauled sand for many years.
Another argument came up that heavy trucks and fast driving will be an issue. That is a law enforcement issue. Dust is another complaint but can be controlled.
So, to make a long story short, Minnesota and Houston County will forgo another opportunity for higher paying jobs and a larger tax base; however, we will live in peace and quiet.
P.S. I think of myself as a tree hugger but in a different way. As a lifelong farmer, I have lived on, cared for and studied the land my whole life hoping to leave the land better than I found it.
Jeff Gerard
Spring Grove, MN
