Mining has a long history in New York State, which is rich in minerals used in various industries and for construction. As the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) points out, mining occurs in every county in New York (except in the five boroughs of New York City).

Metal ores and gem minerals, such as garnet, are mined chiefly in the state’s mountainous regions. Salt is extracted from rich deposits in the central part of New York. Sand and gravel mines are found throughout the state. See https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5020.html.