Metro-area residents attuned to Minnesota’s broader economy undoubtedly have heard about a new Iron Range company called Mesabi Metallics. Mesabi Metallics would be the first iron ore mine to open in Minnesota in about five decades. Is there reason to believe Mesabi Metallics will succeed and thus bring needed jobs and development to the region? An ever-changing industryOne key justification for optimism is that Mesabi Metallics plant won’t be producing taconite pellets. Mesabi Metallics could presage at least a modest revival of those sectors.