DAVID KURZ, Sand Supply, Inc., 12603 S.W. Freeway Suite 620, Stafford, Texas 77477, USA

The sand and gravel mining industry provides basic raw materials that touch everyone’s daily lives. For thousands of years sand and gravel have been integral components of road and building construction. Today, demand for sand and gravel continues to increase. As someone who has been involved in the industry for many years, I have seen the industry grow and I have worked with a number of agencies and organizations to ensure that operations are conducted in a responsible manner. Contrary to what some might think, there are many areas where the industry, working in partnership with agencies, is already addressing environmental concerns. It is vitally important that we continue to work together.