Auditor Blaha’s visit highlights the statewide significance of the Mesabi Metallics project
[NASHWAUK, MN] – This week, Minnesota State Auditor Julie Blaha visited Mesabi Metallics Company, LLC and toured the growing construction of the company’s 7-million metric ton per year Direct-Reduction grade iron ore pellet plant. Auditor Blaha’s visit highlights the statewide significance of the Mesabi Metallics project, which is on track to start commercial operations in the first quarter of 2026.
“As a statewide leader, Constitutional Officer and member of the State Executive Council, Auditor Blaha’s visit is a testament to the statewide significance of this project, and we were honored to have her on site,” said Joe Broking, Mesabi Metallics President & CEO. “Our growing team is making real strides to finish construction of this project, and with the continued partnership of leaders like Auditor Blaha, we are on track to start commercial operations in the first quarter of 2026.”
“After years of uncertainty, it’s encouraging to see Mesabi Metallics breathing new life into this major mining operation,” said Auditor Julie Blaha. “Minnesota’s mining history has always been key to our economy, and this project will continue to drive our growth. Seeing an employee parking lot full of cars is a clear sign of the opportunity this project is creating.”
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 Direct-Reduction grade iron ore pellets that will be strategically positioned to meet the demand of the Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) market, enabling partners across the globe to produce Green Steel—materially reducing carbon emissions from the manufacturing and consumption of steel.
The endeavor is one of the largest private sector investments in Minnesota. Mesabi Metallics has invested over $1.7 billion in the project and will further invest $550 to complete the project.
