A great variety of mineral commodities are produced in Illinois. In the order of their 1963 value ([fig. 6]) they are (1) crude oil and natural gas, (2) coal, (3) clay products, (4) crushed stone and cement, (5) common sand and gravel, (6) special sands, (7) fluorspar, and (8) metals—zinc and lead.
HOW MANY ILLINOIS COUNTIES PRODUCE MINERAL COMMODITIES?
In 1963, 99 of the 102 counties of Illinois reported mineral production of one kind or another.
Figure 6—Percentage diagram of Illinois mineral production value for 1963.
Petroleum and Natural Gas 36.3% Coal 31.9% Stone Products 15.2% Clay Products 8.8% Sand and Gravel 5.9% Fluorspar and Metals 1.9%
HOW MANY PEOPLE WORK IN THE MINERAL INDUSTRIES OF ILLINOIS?
In 1963, approximately 27,000 people worked in mines, quarries, oil fields, and direct processing operations such as cement and clay products plants and oil refineries. Many other persons were employed in transporting the materials and in plants and general offices.
HOW DOES THE FARMER IN ILLINOIS BENEFIT FROM MINERAL PRODUCTION?
The farmers of the state are among those receiving direct and indirect benefits from Illinois minerals. In 1963, more than 4,800,000 tons of agstone (crushed limestone and dolomite) were spread on Illinois fields to reduce acidity, maintain soil fertility, and improve crop production. Other stone and stone products are used in constructing farm buildings and facilities and in the maintenance of farm-to-market roads. In addition, petroleum products and coal provide energy to power the laborsaving devices that enable the farmer to increase his production and scale of operations.