What are the main concerns about the proposed sand mine in Mooreland?

Residents are worried about silica dust impacting air quality and health, potential contamination of water resources, and damage to local roads from increased truck traffic.

What does Croell Inc. say about the sand mining operation?

Croell Inc. states the proposed site will be a small, temporary operation supplying sand for their Woodward concrete plant, with limited truck traffic and no added chemicals in water usage.

How will the Oklahoma Department of Mines decide on the sand mine permit?

The department will review public testimony from meetings and written submissions before making a determination on whether to issue the permit for the proposed sand mining operation.

Home / Environment / Town Fights Sand Mine Over Dust, Traffic Fears

Town Fights Sand Mine Over Dust, Traffic Fears

18 Jan

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Summary

Residents fear silica dust, water safety, and road damage from proposed mine.
Company claims operation is small, temporary, and supplies local concrete plant.
Permit language allows significantly more water use and sand extraction than stated.

Town Fights Sand Mine Over Dust, Traffic Fears

A public meeting in Mooreland saw an overwhelming turnout of residents concerned about a proposed sand mining operation. Attendees voiced significant worries regarding potential air pollution from silica dust, the safety of local water resources, and the impact on community roads. These concerns were directed at a permit application submitted to the Oklahoma Department of Mines, which will decide on its approval.

Company representatives from Croell Inc. described the proposed site as a small, temporary operation intended to supply sand for their Woodward concrete plant. They estimated minimal truck traffic, with equipment operating for only a few months every few years. However, residents pointed to permit documents indicating much higher allowances for water usage and sand extraction, questioning the company's projections.