The frac sand mining debate that has occupied the Houston County Board took a new turn last week when tribal representatives and attorneys requested attention be given to the possibility that native burial grounds and/or mounds might be located on the property.
                     
John Borman,  general counsel for Winona Dakota Unity Alliance, asked the board to take steps to prevent what often times can be a very difficult and emotional issue should something be found while mining.

Borman asked the board to recommend the landowners, Tracie and Michelle Erickson, let Ho Chunk and Dakota representatives walk the land to determine if a burial site might exist.

According to the Caledonia Argus, the county has no authority to open the property for inspection but can recommend that it take place. The board unanimously agreed to draft a letter to the property owners suggesting they allow such a visit.