This Wabasha neighbor is hoping Winona County declares a ban on frac-sand mining and associated operations.
Remember just a few years ago when river counties, Goodhue down to Houston, declared moratoria on this activity? At heart, I believe there is the collective knowledge that we must protect our unique bluff country.
Even though many cities and counties worked hard to improve ordinances, a question remains. Do we really want to always be looking over our shoulder because of a wasteful, extractive, boom or bust industry such as this?
My answer is to "just say no." That is, ban frac-sand mining and its related activities. There is still much we can learn about our special ecology and karst topography. We can protect our water resources and endeavor to keep our air clean and even cleaner. Embrace sustainable energy. Grow jobs independent of fickle markets.
In other words, I am hoping Winona County will be the leader in banning frac-sand mining — and I hope others will follow.
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Victoria Jaskierski
Wabasha
