Mining

This traditional industry sector is poised for significant transformation into value-added opportunities related to new direct reduced iron technology and non-ferrous minerals. If realized, the development of copper, nickel, and other precious metal mining operations promises economic development at a large scale.

While the sector is supported by a large supplier base, new opportunities in both value-added ferrous and non-ferrous mining are expected to create new and stabilize existing support businesses and the communities in which they are located.

This is a large cluster with massive output when operating at full capacity, contributing $3.4 billion to the state and regional economies. A loyal, skilled workforce is a key asset in this sector with employee turnover at only 2.6%.

Iron Ore Mining

• ArcelorMittal Minorca – Virginia
• Hibbing Taconite – Hibbing
• Northshore Mining – Babbitt, Silver Bay
• United Taconite – Eveleth, Forbes
• U.S. Steel – Keetac – Keewatin
• U.S. Steel – Minntac – Mountain Iron

Precious Metals Exploration

• AngloGold Ashanti
• PolyMet Mining – Hoyt Lakes
• Twin Metals – Ely
• Vermillion Gold – Minneapolis