What is the nonmetallic mining industrys role in Wisconsins economy?
Nonmetallic mining is a widespread activity in Wisconsin, and there is an estimated 2,500 to 3,000 nonmetallic mine sites producing a wide variety of nonmetallic mineral products. The U.S. Geological Survey has estimated that for 2001 the total nonfuel mineral production for Wisconsin was $368 million. Druing 2001, Over 166 million tons of crushed stone, dimension stone, and sand and gravel were produced in Wisconsin. The industry provides materials for road building, construction, landscaping, agriculture and other markets throughout the state and the nation. Each person in the United States uses an estimated 10 to 20 tons of nonmetallic mining products each year.
