DAKOTA, Minn. – The upstart company that went to the U.S. Supreme Court to mine Winona County’s high-quality fracking sand expressed disappointment that the Court declined to consider its case. The appeal to the high court was the last hope of Minnesota Sands to open mines in the county. In a prepared statement the company said: “This decision means that Minnesota Sands will continue to be prevented from implementing its plan for small-scale, mobile sand quarries with minimal environmental impact.” The statement repeated the company’s argument that the Winona County Board had exceeded its authority by banning frac mines. Minnesota Sands said the Supreme Court decision will embolden more activist groups to press other Minnesota counties to adopt similar regulations. Minnesota Sands has pending operations in nearby Houston and Fillmore counties.
Earlier: Anti-frac activist: Democracy wins
Rick Frick. The mining company’s president.