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Dan Kraker

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Iron Range leaders are talking again about easing the region's dependence on mining. While there's some momentum, diversifying this economy isn't easy. The story of the chopsticks factory is always near.

All this week on Minnesota Public Radio news, we'll be talking about the future of Minnesota's Iron Range, a part of our state that is struggling economically because of the recent slump in the mining industry.  MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Minnesota Public Radio news reporter Dan Kraker about past attempts to diversify the Iron Range economy, and the lessons learned from those attempts.

MPR's Dan Kraker on attempts to diversify the Iron Range's economy

Iron Range leaders are talking again about easing the region's dependence on mining. While there's some momentum, diversifying this economy isn't easy.

Mine layoffs bring new calls to remake Iron Range economy, but into what?

All this week, we're taking a close look at Minnesota's Iron Range. We're exploring the Range's long history of mining-related booms and bust, and highlighting ideas to bring more vibrancy to the regional economy. MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Minnesota Public Radio news reporter Dan Kraker about how improving the quality of life, things like arts and culture, could help the area's economy.

Ideas to improve the quality of life to boost Iron Range economy

The Hull Rust-Mahoning open pit mine in Hibbing

Derek Montgomery for MPR News

The Thunderbird Mine looms over Virginia.

Steel for drill bits in tempered and hardened.

An unfinished drill bit is ejected from a machine.

Minnesota Twist Drill makes 80,000 bits a day.

Daron Manning works to disassemble equipment.

An engine control unit awaits remanufacturing.

Dan Kraker | MPR News.

The BoomTown Woodfire Restaurant in Eveleth

Pete Pellinen talks about the Lyric's history.

Jessalyn and Jared Sabin on their front porch.

Dan Kraker | MPR News

Children cross the street in downtown Chisholm.

Mine layoffs bring new calls to remake Iron Range economy, but into what?

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