Sand Mine Seeking Expansion In Chippewa County

Chippewa County officials have 60 days to decide whether to grant permits for the expansion of a sand mine near Bloomer.  Chippewa Sand Company wants to expand its 142-acre operation to nearly 11,000 acres of land.  People who live nearby worry about the impact on the drinking water supply and wildlife.  The company says it wants to drain its contaminated storm and wastewater into a nearby stream.  A public meeting was held Tuesday night at the Chippewa County courthouse.