In a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed gravel mining operation in the Big Woods Corridor of Rice County, citing environmental concerns, public safety risks, and a lack of transparency in the permitting process. Residents expressed fears about increased truck traffic on local roads, potential harm to wildlife habitats, and the inadequacy of the current environmental assessments.

Janine Rosenhammer, a local resident and mother, raised concerns about the safety of children traveling to school amidst increased truck traffic, emphasizing the need for a thorough Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) to evaluate the project's impact. She criticized the planning commission's ability to assess environmental concerns and called for proper state consultation.

Other speakers echoed her sentiments, highlighting the potential for significant environmental degradation and questioning the transparency of the mining company's plans. Several residents pointed out that the proposed operation could be much larger than initially presented, with implications for local air quality and water resources. Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of existing infrastructure to handle increased traffic and the potential for accidents involving heavy trucks.

Supporters of the mining project, including local officials, argued for the necessity of gravel for road maintenance and public safety, asserting that the operation would provide essential materials for infrastructure improvements. They emphasized the importance of local resource extraction to meet community needs.

The meeting underscored a deep divide within the community, with many residents advocating for a more cautious approach to development in sensitive ecological areas. As discussions continue, the future of the proposed gravel pit remains uncertain, with calls for further investigation and community engagement in the decision-making process.