OSCEOLA COUNTY — Michigan Potash and Salt Co. LLC is set to build a new mining facility at the Schofield Road and 120th Avenue intersection near Evart in Osceola County, creating 300 construction jobs and 129 full-time positions.
According to a Jan. 87 news release from the company, the project entails a $1.3 billion investment, with an anticipated annual harvest of 900,000 tons of salt and 650,000 tons of potash.
The facility, built on one of the highest-quality natural deposits of potash and salt in the world, aims to provide much-needed natural fertilizers to farmers while also supplying road salt and home-use salt across Michigan.
To accommodate the anticipated increase in traffic due to the facility’s operations, the Osceola County Road Commission (OCRC) will reconstruct 135th Avenue and Schofield Road to all-season standards.
Rebuilding the roads is essential for ensuring safe access for company employees and truck traffic.
Mike Mattzela, manager of the OCRC, highlighted the significance of these improvements.
“This critical road improvement will enable Michigan Potash and Salt Co. to advance development of its proposed potash plant, creating an estimated 129 new full-time jobs over the next three years,” he said.
”The overall cost of the road improvement project is $9,797,084, with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) contributing $5,292,824, representing 54% of the costs. The remaining 46% will be covered by the OCRC, amounting to $4,504,260."
The investment in the facility is expected to strengthen and secure the supply of this critical mineral in the United States.
Aric Glasser, chief operating officer at Michigan Potash and Salt Co., expressed gratitude toward MDOT for facilitating the road improvements.
“Michigan Potash and Salt Co. is grateful to MDOT for enabling the road improvements associated with developing America’s purest source of world-class potash and salt in Osceola County,” he said.
This mining project is projected to significantly impact local agriculture by providing domestic sources of vital fertilizers. It will not only assist in local farming but also stimulate job creation in the region.
Construction on the mining facility is expected to begin following the completion of road improvements, which will enhance access and traffic flow in the area. Further updates on the project’s timeline and job availability are anticipated as development commences.