Texas-based Smart Sand Inc. announcing the purchase of a long-idled mine in Trempealeau County, Wis., according to Wisconsin Public Radio.
On March 8, Smart Sand purchased a mine, processing and rail loading facility in the city of Blair formerly owned and operated by Texas-based Hi-Crush Inc. The mine has been closed since June 2020 when Hi-Crush announced plans to file for bankruptcy.
The facility is capable of producing 2.8 million tons of sand, known as “northern white” by oil and gas companies. During an earnings call with investors March 9, Smart Sand CEO Chuck Young said the Blair mine was purchased for around $6.5 million.
“This facility provides direct and rail access and has estimated reserves of 110 million tons, over 43,000 ft. of track and 20000 tons of solid storage capacity,” said Young.
The Blair facility has access to Canadian National rail lines, said Smart Sand Chief Financial Officer Lee Beckelman. He said that access will open up additional opportunities to supply oil and natural gas drilling operations in Canada.