about us
MiningMinnesota is a group of industry leaders who advocate for safe and responsible mining in Minnesota. We are committed to benefiting our communities and advancing a sustainable future through mining, processing, and domestic supply chain utilization of our mineral resources.
We have a social obligation to support the responsible development of our regional mineral resources required for a sustainable future. The clean energy infrastructure required for the shift to renewable energy is immense, and will require substantial quantities of minerals and metals.
MiningMinnesota and the companies we represent know that bolstering our domestic supply chain begins with procuring domestic raw materials. Recycling alone cannot produce the amount of minerals and metals required to build clean energy and infrastructure. Our state has the mineral resources, the workforce and a steadfast regulatory framework to support increased mining activity – and we will remain vigilant in our commitment to our state’s natural resources. Mining and sustainability can and do coexist.
MiningMinnesota is a proud and powerful voice for industrial development, and we look to science and fact to spread the positive message of nonferrous mining projects in Minnesota.
Julie Lucas
Executive Director
Kyle Makarios
Legislative Advisor
Talia Sandys
Communications Director
Colin Marsh
Board President; NewRange Copper Nickel
Kathy Graul
Board Vice-President; Twin Metals Minnesota
Larry Kramka
Secretary/Treasurer; Foth
Cliff Cain
Pulsar Helium
Julian Collins
Timberline Drilling
Ryan Davies
IUOE Local 49
Dean DeBeltz
Twin Metals Minnesota
Kris Fredson
LIUNA
Jason George
Ames Construction
Stacey Green
Allete Minnesota Power
Jessica Johnson
Talon Metals
Matt Johnson
Talon Metals
Christie Kearney
NewRange Copper Nickel
Harry Noyes
Encampment Minerals
Jason Odella
NCSRCC
Tina Pint
Barr Engineering
Rick Sandri
North Star Manganese
For nearly four decades, MiningMinnesota has brought together people and organizations committed to responsible mineral development in Minnesota. The organization began as the Minnesota Exploration Association, Inc., formally incorporated on November 17, 1988. Its original purpose was to serve as an information resource and engage in public policy related to nonferrous mining and exploration in Minnesota.
As Minnesota’s mineral industry has evolved, so has the organization. What began with a strong focus on exploration, geology and mineral research has grown to include regulatory policy, project development, education, workforce, supply chains and public engagement.
Minnesota Exploration Association, Inc. was established on November 17, 1988, bringing together leaders in Minnesota’s mineral exploration community. Its Articles of Incorporation established a mission to serve as an information resource and participate in public policy related to nonferrous mining and exploration in Minnesota. The organization’s first Board of Directors included William C. Ulland, Rodney Ikola, Ernest Lehmann, Keith A. Laskowski and Glen Adams.
Minnesota adopted Minnesota Rules Chapter 6132, establishing a regulatory framework specifically for nonferrous metallic mineral mining. The rules address areas including mine waste characterization, permitting, financial assurance, siting, reclamation and closure.
The Minnesota Exploration Association participated directly in the rulemaking process, providing industry and technical input as Minnesota developed the framework that continues to govern nonferrous metallic mineral mining today.
The Minnesota Exploration Association worked with state agencies, researchers and industry to strengthen Minnesota’s mineral knowledge and encourage responsible mineral development.
In 1996, the association and Iron Range Resources convened a Nonferrous Minerals Exploration Symposium that brought together 34 representatives from industry, research organizations, state agencies and other groups. Recommendations from the effort focused on mineral research, access to exploration data, exploration incentives and greater awareness of Minnesota’s mineral potential.
As Minnesota’s nonferrous mineral projects moved from exploration toward environmental review and potential development, the organization entered a new chapter.
Frank Ongaro was named Executive Director in 2006, and the Minnesota Exploration Association began operating publicly as MiningMinnesota. The organization broadened its membership to include mineral exploration and development companies, suppliers, consultants and others supporting Minnesota’s growing nonferrous mineral industry.
Julie Lucas was named Executive Director in 2022, bringing more than two decades of Minnesota mining and environmental experience to the organization.
With approximately 75 industry partners at the time, MiningMinnesota expanded its educational outreach, partnerships, events, communications and advocacy while continuing to grow and diversify its membership.
Today, MiningMinnesota represents more than 100 member companies, organizations and individuals connected to mineral exploration and development, labor, engineering, construction, equipment and services, utilities and Minnesota communities.
The organization maintains an active presence at the State Capitol, provides educational resources about minerals and mining, engages audiences through traditional and social media, and participates in state and national conversations about responsible mineral development and domestic mineral supply chains.
The tools and the audiences have changed since 1988, but the purpose remains recognizable: provide reliable information, engage in public policy and bring people together around the responsible development of Minnesota’s mineral resources.
Join a network of industry leaders, businesses, organizations, and supporters working to advance education, collaboration, and responsible resource development across Minnesota.
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