Mesabi Metallics has successfully completed the first production blast at its new iron ore mine in Nashwauk, Minnesota, marking a major milestone toward first pellet production scheduled for the third quarter of 2026. 
The blast fractured approximately 211,000 tons of ore and opened the first ramp into the pit, allowing 400-ton haul trucks to begin ore transportation. The company expects weekly blasting to continue as the project progresses toward full-scale production. 
The mine is expected to become the first new iron ore mine and pellet plant built in Minnesota in 50 years, supported by an investment of approximately US$2.5 billion. The project is expected to become one of North America’s few major producers of direct-reduction-grade (DR-grade) iron ore pellets.