United Taconite Officially Reopens

Officials Cut Ribbon on Facility Producing Mustang Pellets

FORBES, Minn. – Lawmakers and officials from Cliff’s Natural Resources had reason to celebrate, as they cut the ribbon on the re-opened United Taconite facility.

“We are truly celebrating here today the largest producer of iron ore pellets in North America sending a brand new mustang pellet to the largest blast furnace in the United States,” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar (DFL-MN) during her remarks.

United Taconite went idle in 2015.  But thanks to a $75 million investment from Cliff’s and new tarrifs on foreign steel, the plant is operational again.

“I’m very, very proud to say that we have produced U–Tac’s first mustang pellets on time and on budget,” said Chad Asgaard, General Manager of Project Mustang.

The project took less than a year to finish and officials hope a new mission will help revitalize the Iron Range.

“Mining, iron ore and steel, they are the backbone of our nation’s economy,” said U.S. Rep. Rick Nolan (DFL-MN).  “They are the backbone of our national security and we are back on track again and this time we are going to keep it on track.”

Cliff’s CEO Lourenco Goncalves believes mustang pellets will give his company a needed shot in the arm.

“We are here to create a market for pellets,” said Goncalves.  “New pellets for new uses to grow the business we have.”

The new mustang pellets are superflux iron ore pellets with higher levels of limestone and change from solid to liquid at a faster rate inside blast furnaces.  Officials at U–Tac are impressed with their new product.

“By all accounts the product has been a stunning success, exceeding all expectations with regard to quality,” said Brian Zarn, President of the United Steel Workers Local 6860.

Less than a year ago, United Taconite’s future was in doubt.  But thanks to mustang pellets things are looking up.  Both for U–Tac and the Iron Range.