Clair, Patricia & Jarad Olson Mine
About the Proposed Mining Project
Greed often manifests in the relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of community, environment, public safety and common sense. One striking example of this is the Clair, Patricia and Jarad Olson sand mine proposal along scenic highway 16. The Olson's, along with Bruening Rock Products and G-Cubed Engineering are proposing a 20-acre sand mine that will forever scar a southeastern Minnesota bluff. The bluffs in this area - are pristine - quiet landmarks shaped by nature and time. The bluff at risk is just feet from the well-known Root River. Watch the video to learn more and see the details below.
Timeline of Mining Application
June 23, 2026
A citizen petition for the preparation of an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) on the proposed Bruening Rock Products/Olson Sand Mine was unanimously approved by the Houston County Board of Commissioners (BOC). The variance application and CUP application are currently on hold pending completion of the EAW.
May 18, 2026
An incomplete variance application was submitted by G-Cubed Engineering on behalf of Bruening Rock Products and Clair, Patricia and Jarad Olson.
Spring 2026
An incomplete CUP application was submitted by G-Cubed Engineering on behalf of Bruening Rock Products and Clair, Patricia, and Jarad Olson.
March 2026
Houston County Board of Commissioners voted to re-instate the 1/2 mile density standard between sand mines following a text amendment application submitted by Burns & Hansen PA and supported by many Houston County residents.
August 20, 2025
Zoning office notified those who submitted public comments that the public hearing had been cancelled due to mining applicants requesting more time to gather supplemental information.
August 11, 2025
A notice was sent to neighboring landowners notifying them of a public hearing for the proposed mine scheduled for August 28, 2025. Public comments were submitted.
June 26, 2025
An application was submitted to the Houston County Zoning Administrator on June 26, 2025. What follows are links to the public documents pertaining to their plan.
March 18, 2025
Houston County Board of Commissioners approved G-Cubed's application to amend the ordinance.
January 16, 2025
G-Cubed Engineering submitted an application to amend two sections of the Houston County Zoning Ordinance on mineral extraction. 27.3 Mineral Extraction Definitions, and 27.8 Subd. 1 (5) Mine Density Standards.
September 11, 2023
Land for the proposed mine site was purchased by Clair, Patricia and Jarad Olsen on September 11, 2023. Clair, Patricia and Jarad Olsen do not live on site.