A lot of people in Mecosta and Osceola counties have serious concerns about a proposed potash mine in Evart and Hersey Townships. The EPA held a hearing on the project at Reed City High School on Wednesday and many residents expressed strong opinions both for and against the mine.

Farmer and Osceola County Farm Bureau Board member Rick Johnson says the mine is needed not just for Michigan, but for the country.

“Currently, less than five percent of potash used in this country actually comes from the United States.”

Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation spokesperson Jeff Ostahowski believes there are safety issues and that everyone needs to understand the implications of the mine.

“At this point in time, there needs to be a lot more information provided than has been provided,” he says.

Ostahowski notes that a geological survey of the area has not been done and the EPA doesn't even know which direction the contaminants will flow.