Unlocking Economic Growth and Opportunity in Campbell County with a World-Class Silica Resource
Ketchen Silica LLC is proud to announce a landmark Greenfield venture in Campbell County, Tennessee, poised to become a cornerstone of the region’s economic future. With a projected operational start in Q4 2027, our state-of-the-art silica mining and processing facility will harness one of the nation’s most significant high-grade silica deposits, creating a new engine for job creation, industrial innovation, and sustainable growth. We invite you to learn more about our vision for a prosperous future, built on a foundation of strategic investment and community partnership.
East Tennessee’s Premier Silica Deposit
At the heart of our Greenfield venture lies a geological asset of national significance: a 2,000-acre tract in the mountains of East Tennessee containing an estimated 75 to 150 million tons of high-grade silica sandstone. This vast reserve is distinguished by its exceptional purity, with a high silica content and minimal contaminants that make it ideal for a wide range of high-value industrial applications. The natural white color of the sandstone further enhances its value for use in premium products where color consistency is critical.
The unique characteristics of this deposit, detailed in the table below, position Ketchen Silica as a key future supplier for industries ranging from glass manufacturing and technology components to specialty materials and recreational products. The scale and quality of this resource ensure a long-term, reliable supply of superior silica for decades to come.
Building a Future of Growth and Prosperity
Our vision extends beyond the development of a valuable natural resource. The Ketchen Silica Greenfield venture represents a commitment to building a future of lasting growth and prosperity for Campbell County. We are investing in the construction of a technologically advanced, environmentally responsible mining and processing facility, engineered for efficiency, safety, and sustainability. From inception, this project has been designed to meet the highest industry standards, ensuring that our operations not only drive economic progress but also protect the natural beauty of the East Tennessee landscape.
With a clear timeline to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2027, we are moving forward with a strategic plan that emphasizes precision, responsibility, and a long-term perspective. This facility will not only be a center for industrial production but a symbol of a new era of economic vitality in the region, powered by a partnership between industry and community.
A Driving Economic Engine
for Campbell County
The Ketchen Silica Greenfield venture is more than an industrial project; it is a long-term investment in the people and future of Campbell County. We are committed to creating a significant number of high-quality, well-paying jobs, providing stable and rewarding career opportunities for local residents. The economic benefits of this project will extend throughout the community, generating new revenue streams for local businesses, supporting public services through increased tax contributions, and fostering a climate of economic optimism and resilience.
This initiative will build on Campbell County’s impressive record of economic achievement, including a record-low unemployment rate and a growing, diversified industrial base. By adding a major new employer and a new sector to the local economy, we will help ensure that Campbell County remains a place where families can thrive for generations to come. We are proud to partner with local and state leaders to help write the next chapter in the region’s story of economic success.
Why Campbell County? A Strategic Partnership for Industrial Innovation
Our decision to establish this landmark venture in Campbell County was a strategic one, rooted in the region’s exceptional combination of logistical advantages, a skilled workforce, and a deeply ingrained culture of industrial innovation. Campbell County is not just a location; it is a partner in our vision for the future. Situated at the northern gateway to Tennessee, the county offers unparalleled access to major transportation arteries, including the vital I-75 corridor, which connects us to markets across the nation.
Beyond its logistical strengths, Campbell County is home to a dedicated and skilled workforce, supported by outstanding educational institutions like the Tennessee College of Applied Technology at Jacksboro. The county’s pro-business environment, cultivated by forward-thinking local and state leadership, ensures that companies have the resources and support they need to thrive. We are proud to join a community with a rich history of manufacturing excellence and a shared commitment to building a prosperous future.
A Legacy of Responsible Resource Management
Ketchen Silica LLC is a subsidiary of Ketchen Land Company, an organization with deep roots in East Tennessee and a multi-generational commitment to responsible land and resource management. Since our founding in 1992, we have built a legacy of balancing economic opportunity with environmental stewardship, managing a diverse portfolio of natural resources that includes timber, coal, natural gas, and now, high-grade silica. Our approach is guided by a philosophy of long-term value creation, not just for our stakeholders, but for the communities in which we operate and the land we are entrusted to manage. We bring to this new venture decades of experience, a deep respect for the region’s heritage, and an unwavering commitment to operating with integrity and excellence.
Our Path to Production
We have established a clear and strategic timeline to bring the Ketchen Silica Greenfield venture to full operation by the fourth quarter of 2027. Our phased approach ensures that every stage of development is executed with precision, transparency, and a commitment to our environmental and community responsibilities.
Q1 2026:
*Final Permitting and Site Preparation. Securing all necessary environmental and operational permits, and commencing initial site work.
Q2 2026:
*Groundbreaking and Construction Commencement. Beginning the construction of our state-of-the-art processing facility and supporting infrastructure.
Q3 2027:
*Major Equipment Installation. Installation of primary mining and processing machinery.
Q4 2027:
*Commissioning and Start of Operations. Final testing, commissioning of the plant, and the official start of silica production.
Connect With Us
We welcome inquiries from potential investors, media representatives, and strategic partners who share our vision for a prosperous and innovative future in Campbell County. For more information about the Ketchen Silica Greenfield venture, please connect with us.