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{{#badges: CoalSwarm|Navbar-fracking}} In 2009, a sand rush started in Wisconsin, to provide the silica particles used in the [[hydraulic fracturing]] process. As of 2012, at least 16 frac-sand mines and processing facilities are running in the state, and at least 25 more mines are planned across 15 Wisconsin counties, according to the Baltimore Post-Examiner.<ref>Doug Hissom, [http://baltimorepostexaminer.com/sand-mining-coming-to-a-town-near-you/2012/05/13 "Sand mining coming to a town near you,"] Post-Examiner, May 13, 2012.</ref> E&E reports 60 frac sand mines operating in Wisconsin as of 2012,<ref>"MINING: Fracking fuels sand boom in the Midwest," E&E, May 15, 2012.</ref> and about 40 more are attempting to gain permits, according to PR Watch.<ref>Sara Jerving, [http://www.alternet.org/environment/154545/wisconsin_legislation_may_strip_towns_of_authority_to_stop_fracking "Wisconsin Legislation May Strip Towns of Authority to Stop Fracking,"] PR Watch, March 14, 2012.</ref>
Much of Wisconsin's sand is the ideal shape and strength, and the state's geologic profile has made it more accessible than in other parts of the country.<ref>Sara Jerving, [http://www.alternet.org/environment/154545/wisconsin_legislation_may_strip_towns_of_authority_to_stop_fracking "Wisconsin Legislation May Strip Towns of Authority to Stop Fracking,"] PR Watch, March 14, 2012.</ref> Mining firms can get up $50<ref>"MINING: Fracking fuels sand boom in the Midwest," E&E, May 15, 2012.</ref> to $200 a ton for the sand.<ref>Doug Hissom, [http://baltimorepostexaminer.com/sand-mining-coming-to-a-town-near-you/2012/05/13 "Sand mining coming to a town near you,"] Post-Examiner, May 13, 2012.</ref>
==Introduction==
