Minnesota Secretary of State, Steve Simon, visited Mesabi Metallics Co. last week to tour the growing construction of Mesabi’s state-of-the-art, 7-million metric ton per year taconite mining and Direct Reduction grade pellet plant, which is on track to start commercial operations in the first quarter of 2026. While on site, the Secretary also learned more about Mesabi Metallics’ plans for sustainable Green Steel production in Minnesota, which has the potential to be one of the first fully integrated Green Steel projects globally. Photos of the Secretary’s visit are available for download via this link.
“It is promising to see the progress that Mesabi Metallics is making toward the completion of their mining operations and pellet plant,” said Secretary Simon. “Minnesota mining and manufacturing is not only the bedrock of our state’s history—it plays a crucial role in powering the economic strength of our state for generations to come. I’m grateful for the opportunity to visit with Mesabi’s leadership and tour their facilities.”
“On behalf of the people of Nashwauk, I express my gratitude to Secretary Simon for taking time to visit our community and learn more about the Mesabi Metallics project,” said Nashwauk Mayor Calvin Saari. “The Secretary’s visit is a testament to the magnitude of this project and its impact on our community. I continue to be a strong advocate for the shared success of Mesabi Metallics and the city of Nashwauk.”
“It was an honor to welcome Secretary Simon to Mesabi,” said Joe Broking, President & CEO of Mesabi Metallics. “Our statewide elected leaders have a powerful voice, and I’m thrilled that we were able to showcase the significant progress that our world-class team is making every day. As Secretary Simon was able to see first-hand, we’re making real strides and are growing our construction workforce every day as we continue to ramp up. I’m proud of what our team has achieved thus far, and the momentum is there to finish the job.”
Mesabi Metallics’ cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction on over 16,000 acres of land in Nashwauk. Once completed, it will be the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in almost 50 years. The facility will produce a Direct-Reduction grade iron ore pellet that will be strategically positioned to meet the demand of the Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) market. The endeavor is one of the largest private sector investments in Minnesota. Mesabi Metallics has already invested over $1.5 billion in the project.
Following completion of the pellet plant, Mesabi Metallics intends to invest in a Green Steel operation. The development of Green Steel represents a significant step toward the United States’ net-zero vision, advancing the decarbonization of domestic steel production. It will also become the first integrated steel production operation in Minnesota history.
The Secretary’s visit on Friday, August 2 included a comprehensive tour of Mesabi’s land and facilities, as well as a sit-down meeting with Mesabi leaders; leaders of Essar, Mesabi’s parent company; local elected officials and community advocates.
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