The EQB received public comments on the Silica Sand Models and Criteria Toolbox which can be viewed at this link.

These guidelines, mandated by the 2013 legislature, provide information and recommendations related to a number of issues, including such things as water quality, natural vegetation and wildlife habitat, air quality and transportation.

The public comment period has been extended to January 27, 2014.  Commentss can be sent via e-mail to:  silicasand.eqb@state.mn.us   Hard copy comments can be mailed to Jeff Smyser, Environmental Quality Board, 520 Lafayette Road North, St. Paul, MN 55155.

The Minnesota Legislature directed the Environmental Quality Board (EQB) to consult with local governments and develop model standards and criteria for mining, processing, and transporting silica sand.

The EQB is asking for public input on the model standards and criteria. A public input period will begin October 18 and end November 12.

We ask that comments be focused on specific standards and criteria listed in the statute. The language of the statute, 116C.99, is listed below, including the specific standards and criteria.

The EQB Silica Sand Subcommittee has scheduled meetings to gather additional input from interested citizens, local units of government, and industry representatives.  The meetings will occur at the following times and locations:

Friday, October 25, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Blue Earth County Library, 100 East Main Street, Mankato, MN

Tuesday, October 29, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., St. Charles Community Center, 830 Whitewater Avenue, St. Charles, MN

Several state agencies have put together a new website for tracking the agencies' activities regarding the mining, processing, and transporting of silica sand, commonly called “frac” sand.