Effect of public perceptions on support/opposition of frac sand mining development

Abstract

Hydraulic fracturing, a process in which oil and gas is produced from unconventional sources using frac sand has made the U.S. the world’s leading producer of natural gas. Since 2003, the sand mining industry has grown exponentially. In 2013, the number of sand mining facilities increased more than two-fold in Wisconsin. This raised contentions between those for and against sand mining activities. This study investigated underlying reasons and factors indicative of public support/opposition in Trempealeau County, Wisconsin. Data were collected from mail surveys (n = 269) and in-depth semi-structured interviews (n = 22). Overall, there is opposition to frac sand mining development. Four categories of respondents were identified - support (17%), undecided but support (23%), oppose (38%), and undecided but oppose (22%). Perceptions of environmental and health risks, costs and benefits were indicative of support/opposition. Also, use of sand in hydraulic fracturing has influenced public perceptions.