Business and Economic News

Plastic film recycling facility ramps up to fill gap in Minnesota
A new plastic film recycling plant in Rogers is filling a recycling gap in the Midwest. The company started production in August and plans to add more capacity over the next 18 months.
From crayons to Capitol advocacy, a Minnesota flag enthusiast nears moment of triumph
Lee Herold was preaching good flag design long before anyone was even listening. Now, a state commission is about to choose a new Minnesota state flag. Herold, who owns a flag store in Rochester, said he's glad everyone is finally taking flag design seriously.
Minnesota farmers want help fending off voracious deer
Farmers across the state want the Department of Natural Resources to do more to curb damage from large herds of white-tailed deer. A DNR official said it would be difficult for the state to compensate farmers for all wildlife losses. But agency staff are drafting regulatory proposals to address the deer problem that they could unveil during the upcoming legislative session.
Oil companies are embracing terms like 'lower carbon.' Here's what they really mean
The oil industry has a huge voice in this year's climate talks. But what are oil companies actually saying? And why does it matter? We break down their pledges and statements into plain English.
North Dakota researchers find cost-effective way to extract rare-earth elements from coal
The U.S. is trying to reduce its dependence on China for the critical minerals and rare-earth elements needed to build everything from batteries for electric vehicles to military weapons systems. Part of the solution might come from a new extraction process developed in North Dakota.
DFL, GOP leaders weigh in on 2024 budget forecast, bonding bill and spending cuts
Minnesota is projected to have a $2.4 billion budget surplus in 2024, but that’s far less hefty than the one lawmakers had to work with last year. House Speaker Melissa Hortman, DFL-Brooklyn Park, and Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson, R-East Grand Forks, spoke with Cathy Wurzer about it.