Is Frac Sand Mining Causing Metal Contamination In Groundwater?

DNR, UW-Extension, UW-Eau Claire Studying Connections Between Sandstone, Heavy Metals And Groundwater.

Three years ago, water samples from ponds at Wisconsin frac sand mines showed concentrations of heavy metals many times higher than state groundwater standards recommend.

Now, the Department of Natural Resources is planning a study to see if the metal from those ponds is leaching from mines and polluting groundwater. But two similar studies are already underway aimed at better understanding what’s in the region`s water and the sand that`s mined there.

Areas like a section of land outside the city of Arcadia where the Tunnel City and Wonewoc sandstone formations meet are especially rich in minerals containing heavy metals, according to Wisconsin Geological and Historical Survey geologist Jay Zambito....