It would be the first new coal mine permitted in North Dakota since 1976.
Coyote Creek Mining Company – a subsidiary of North American Coal – is proposing an 8000 acre mine near Zap – in Mercer County – to provide lignite coal to the Coyote Power Station. The plant is owned by Otter Tail Power, MDU and two other utilities. It currently gets its coal from Dakota Westmoreland Company. The Public Service Commission has approved a first step – allowing the construction of a shop facility and dragline on 84 acres of land.
"To me, this is a huge landmark," said Public Service Commissioner Randy Christmann. "Great jobs for some great people, providing dependable, affordable power to people -- not just in North Dakota, but across a big portion of our country."
The PSC says it would create 100 to 150 jobs. It may take another year for the permitting process to play out.