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Derek Montgomery
Nashwauk, Minn.

Photos: The making of a taconite mine

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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