ABSTRACT
Historically, mineral resources have been a major impetus in the development of new frontiers, the opening of new lands. They have provided raw materials which are the basis for industrial, economic, and social development and, thus, the foundation of modern progressive societies.
The search for minerals and their development is strongly influenced by the attitudes of government. These attitudes, as expressed through law, are the basis of policy,
The state of Wisconsin has experienced several major shifts in mineral policy which reflect changing public attitudes with respect to resources. Initially, as a territory and in early statehood, the prevalent attitude was for rapid development of resources to generate capital which would foster economic growth and development. Thus, early Wisconsin law either encouraged mineral development or was mute on the subject. The developmental push of the 19th century was followed in the 20th century by a slow but steady shift to environmental and social consciousness. This shift tended to subvert Wisconsin's relationship to and dependence on outside sources to satisfy its mineral needs. It also tended to strongly influence Wisconsin's posture with regard to mineral development.
In the past century Wisconsin has moved from a policy of open encouragement of mineral development with minimum regulation to one of development strongly controlled by laws which reflect public attitudes with regard to taxation, environmental protection, land access, and social responsibility. Increased mineral dependence and high consumer prices are the toll which society pays in return for such policies.
