Background

Winn Bay Sand, LP needed to transform 350 acres of agricultural land into an industrial sand, or frac sand, mining and processing facility on a major CN rail line in western Wisconsin. Foth was retained as the land use, site, and civil and environmental engineering consultant. We were asked to provide strategic planning and technical, permitting and consulting assistance throughout the permitting and site development process, including field and surveying work.

Approach

We used our experience working with state, county and local government agencies to support our client’s efforts and successfully addressed regulatory and community concerns. The permitting process had to address a broad range of activities, including environmental studies to define baseline conditions; economic, social and public impact evaluations; environmental protection; and air studies and modeling. The technical consulting services provided by Foth included evaluations of surface water, groundwater, storm water, high-capacity well and air quality permitting, as well as process area and rail spur layout. We also consulted on public relations and public meeting support issues.

Results

With Foth’s help, the owner was able to meet contractual obligations and secure community approval and permitting in less than one year. This environmentally sound, successfully permitted project is now an economic asset to both Winn Bay Sand, LP and the community at large. And Foth continues to provide consulting assistance as the project proceeds to construction and operation.