HELP! cant find a grow media

[Gillian Burrus]

I live on the Ga SC border near Augusta.  I am having a very difficult time finding expanded shale.  I am not keen on using crushed granite.  Is there another type of media I could use that will be safe?  I have found some places that have river rock, but my concern is that it will be to heavy. 

PLEASE, ANY SUGGESTIONS are welcome. I have never done a aquasystem before, and want to make sure i do it right. 

[John]

I got the bigger size at their recommendation. It is bigger than hydroton but my plants love it. Also. Headquarters is on Indy but the plant and piles for pickup are in Mooresville. You can get as much or little as u want. Weigh car in and out kind of deal.