Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Derek Montgomery
Nashwauk, Minn.

Photos: The making of a taconite mine

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Essar Steel construction
Cranes and construction workers continued to work on the secondary crusher Thursday, March 19, 2015, at the site of Essar Steel near Nashwauk, Minn.
Derek Montgomery | For MPR News

Minnesota's first modern taconite operation is nearing completion.

While leaders of India-based Essar say there will be plenty to celebrate, Iron Range leaders hope the health of the ore industry rebounds. The region is hungry for the plant's 350 full-time jobs and high wages.

For now, some 300 workers are building several huge steel structures. The number of construction workers is expected to more than double come summer.

Gallery
12 of 12
Mining site
The site where Essar Steel will mine for taconite ore stood relatively quiet.
Derek Montgomery | For MPR News
1 of 12
Essar Steel construction
Cranes and construction workers continued to work on the secondary crusher Thursday, March 19, 2015, at the site of Essar Steel near Nashwauk, Minn.
Derek Montgomery | For MPR News
2 of 12
Construction work
A construction worker appeared to hang from the side of what will become the tailings pump house at the Essar Steel site.
Derek Montgomery | For MPR News