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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 $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>It was reported in July 2012 that Wisconsin had doubled its frac sand industry since 2011. As of that time, 87 were reported as operating or are under construction and another 20 are in the proposal stage.
==Introduction==