Grass-Roots Power Through Internet Technology--The Case of the Crandon Mine

Abstract

This article focuses on the proposed Crandon Mine, an underground zinc and copper mine in northern Wisconsin, to demonstrate the effectiveness of Internet technology (ITECH) for resource mobilization of environmental opposition activities. Permitting of the mine has been successfully battled for over 20 years by a diverse collection of opposition members from Wisconsin and around the world. Mine ownership has changed frequently, engineering plans have been modified, and political maneuvering has taken place. This research is based on 25 interviews with persons close to this dispute and on fieldwork in the affected area. Using a social constructionist perspective, this research shows that ITECH, as a resource mobilization tool, has enabled an effective educational campaign, rapid and efficient communication of information, networking and pooling of membership skills, recruitment, and fund-raising activities. It is suggested that other grass-roots groups may find ITECH a useful empowerment resource.