Post 1 - Sand Mining in Western Wisconsin

Introduction
This is an introductory blog post to provide background information on the primary focus of a later project of the semester, sand mining. In this blog post, the process and purpose of sand frac mining will be discussed, as well as where it primarily is utilized in the state of Wisconsin. In addition, the primary concerns and dangers associated with frac mining will be evaluated. Lastly, GIS will be utilized as a tool for the analysis and management of these issues in an upcoming project will be discussed.
Overview: What is Sand Frac Mining and Where is it Done
Sand frac mining is the mining of sandstone formations for a specific kin of sand, frac sand. Frac sand is a unique kind sand in that fragments of the sand are of  uniform size and shape, able to withstand tremendous pressure, and comprised almost exclusively of quartz crystals. This unique composition allows frac sand to be easily carried by pressurized fluid. This makes it ideal for fracture mining, or fracking, of oil and natural gas. By suspending frac sand in fluid and pumped the pressurized fluid into natural gas and oil wells, it creates fissures within the walls of the wells (Figure 1).

Figure 1: A depiction of hydraulic fracturing mining, or fracking, which utilizes
frac sand in order to increase the total oil or natural gas yield of a well.
Retrieved from:
 http://midamericafreight.org/wp-content/uploads/FracSandWhitePaperDRAFT.pdf

This allows for a more effectively release of the desired gas or oil from the target rock.
In Wisconsin, sand frac mining is largely conducted in the western and central regions of the state (Figure 2).

Figure 2: A map of Wisconsin depicted the state's frac sand mines, as of December 2011, and its sandstone formations in their relation to all Wisconsin counties and the state as a whole.

Retrieved from http://wcwrpc.org/frac-sand-factsheet.pdf

Here, sandstone formations lie largely exposed and are comprised largely of frac sand. In eastern portions of the state, the same formations tend to be both less exposed and comprised of less frac sand. Thus, it is exploited far less than the commercially viable formations in the western half of the state.
In order for the frac sand to be utilized, it first has to be cleaned and sorted after being mined. Washing the sand removes gravel and non-quartz from the sand. Afterwards, the sand is dried and sifted. Sifting the sands sorts it by size. This is critical because different sized sand is used in oil and natural gas fracking.  In addition, the sand of non-optimal composition for fracking is also sorted and shipped for purposes other than fracking.
The Downside of Sand Frac Mining
Sand frac mining is one of the most prolific mining industries in Wisconsin. Sand mined in Wisconsin is shipped all over the the country. It proves to be an economic boon for the sate economy and provides many jobs and careers for Wisconsin residents. However, there comes a price for this activity. Sand mines require the excavation of hundreds of acres of property. One proposed min in Jackson county would require the use of 735 acres of land. In addition, the operation of a sand mine requires a number of logistical problems to be solved to order to remain in operation. Ready access to water is necessary to clean and sort the sand, roads need to be constructed in order for trucks to move the sand, and railways have to be nearby to cheaply transport it across the country. This is where many residents draw complaints from local sand mines. Depending on the company operating the mine, the surrounding area can become affected. Cleaning fluid can find its way into the local water supply, uncovered sand may be blown about by the wind, and those living close to the mine complain about undue noise. For many local residents, this may be cause for concern, as it can decrease property values.
How can GIS Help
GIS may serve as an effective mapping tool for sand mines. Using GIS, sandstone formations can be mapped out as possible areas for exploitation. In addition, mines and formations can be mapped out in regards to surrounding populated area. In addition , buffers can be constructed marking the generated noise and possible sand blown about by the wind. Truck transport to and from the mine can be marked on roads in relation to public traffic. These can be compared to additional buffers surrounding private property of those opposed to mining activity. Water table can be mapped out so outflow from the mine doesn't contaminate a local water supply. These are just a few of the ways GIS can be used in regards to sand frac mining.
Sources
Frac sand in Wisconsin. (2012). In Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey. Retrieved 3/3/2017, from http://wcwrpc.org/frac-sand-factsheet.pdf

Hart, M.V., T. Adams, A. Schwartz. (2013). Tranportation Impacts of Frac Sand Mining in MAFC Region: Chippewa Case Study. Retrieved 3/3/2017 from http://midamericafreight.org/wp-content/uploads/FracSandWhitePaperDRAFT.pdf

Hubbach, C. (2017). Jackson County Residents Aim to Block Frack Sand Mining. In Beloit Daily News. Retrieved 3/3/2017, from http://www.beloitdailynews.com/article/20170213/AP/302139998