Minnesota. Governor's Task Force on Mining and Minerals.

The Governor's Task Force on Mining and Minerals included representatives from the mining and minerals industry, labor, state and local government, environmental groups, suppliers, and research/educational institutions. This task force was created by an executive order of Governor Arne Carlson on January 4, 1993 and chaired by the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board commissioner. It was charged with recommending actions that would sustain and enhance the long-term viability of mining in the region and the state. The task force issued six reports to the Governor and Legislature. During this period, Minnesota 8th District Congressman Jim Oberstar also organized a group called the Taconite Enhancement Committee, which met frequently to discuss problems facing the taconite industry and possible solutions through technology development and funding. In 1999, Governor Jesse Ventura authorized the extension of the task force. Shortly thereafter, the Governor and Congressman Oberstar merged the task force and the committee to create the Minnesota Blue Ribbon Committee on Mining.