Tribal Impacts of Industrial Sand Mining

Industrial sand mining has expanded exponentially over the past two years.  The present- and long-term impacts of sand mining on the populations located near mining operations have not been determined.  The Ho-Chunk Nation, located in Central Wisconsin, has joined many of its neighboring counties to participate in a Health Impact Assessment.  The most frequently stated health concerns related to sand mining include airborne crystalline silica, ground and surface water quality, transportation, tax impacts, tourism, jobs, land reclamation and valuation, noise and rural quality of life.  The goal of the assessment is to provide an unbiased study that identifies and compiles the major health impacts of sand mining.  The final Health Impact Assessment will be used to educate tribal members and tribal legislators.  The Ho-Chunk Nation hopes to have a consultation role in policies that influence the permitting process of sand mining.  Recommendations identified in the Health Impact Assessment will strengthen the capacity of the participants to shape policies on sand mining in the future.