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emi-Annual Report January - June

O u r r e s e a r c h g o e s t o w o r k .

Table of Contents NRRI Semi Annual Report January – June 2013

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS ..................................................................................................................................................... 1-10

CENTER FOR APPLIED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT ...................................................11-78

Forestry

Assessment of Biomass Sources for Energy in Northern Minnesota for the Laurentian Energy Project ......................... 12

Minnesota Forest Productivity Research Cooperative ................................................................................................13-14

Regional Biomass Feedstock Partnership-Poplar ............................................................................................................. 15

Forest Products

Developing Thermal Verification Guidelines for Firewood ............................................................................................ 16

Development and Integration of Advanced Timber Bridge Inspection Techniques for National Bridge Inspection

Standards .......................................................................................................................................................................... 17

Development of Torrefied Wood as a Biofuel ................................................................................................................. 18

Evaluation and Demonstration of Nondestructive Assessment Technologies for Sorting Eastern Hardwoods ............... 19

Grand Log Homes ............................................................................................................................................................ 20

Thermal Modification Research for Engineered Wood Materials.................................................................................... 21

Update of Forest Products Laboratory General Technical Report 7 - Machine Grading of Lumber-Practical Concerns

for Lumber Producers....................................................................................................................................................... 22

Use of Laser Scanning Technology to Obtain As-Built Records of Historic Covered Bridges ....................................... 23

Wolf Wood - Thermal Modification of Regional Timber Species ................................................................................... 24

Wood Utilization Research 2010 ..................................................................................................................................... 25

Chemical Extractives

Betula Extractives ............................................................................................................................................................ 26

Development And Commercialization Of A Biorefinery For Processing DDGS In Biofuels And Other Value-Added

Products ............................................................................................................................................................................ 27

Midwest Gypsum, Inc ...................................................................................................................................................... 28

Energy

Compressed Air Energy Storage in Northern Minnesota Using Underground Mine Workings ...................................... 29

Hydrothermal Processing of Biomass Materials .............................................................................................................. 30

Minnesota Department of Agriculture Hydrothermal ...................................................................................................... 31

New and Improved Zinc-Air Battery System and Devices .............................................................................................. 32

Polymetallic Gas to Liquid Catalysts ............................................................................................................................... 33

Environmental Remediation

Addition of Hibbing Taconite (Hibtac) Pilot-Scale Mine Land Demonstration Site For Application ............................. 34

Bioremediation for Sulfate Removal in Minnesota Mining Waters ................................................................................. 35

Erie Pier Dredged Material Beneficial Use Study ............................................................................................................ 36

Field Monitoring Atlas Brownfield Demo ....................................................................................................................... 37

Material Transport ............................................................................................................................................................ 38

Sediment for Biomass, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation ............................................... 39

Minerals, Ferrous

Coleraine Lab Standards .................................................................................................................................................. 40

Establishing a Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) Pilot Scale Shaft Simulator at CMRL for Reduction of Iron Ore Pellets Using

MIDREX & HYL Natural Gas Based Processes.............................................................................................................. 41

Investigate Ideas for Further Processing of Taconite Coarse Tailings at the Plant Before Haulage and Stockpiling ...... 42

Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation - Product Development Support ................................. 43

Paired Straight Hearth Furnace Simulation ...................................................................................................................... 44

Pellet Induration Modeling - Revised Pellet Drying Model ............................................................................................. 45

Recovery of Iron Values from Lean Ore Stockpiles from Past Mining Activities in the MMC, Minnesota Mining

Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation ................................................................................................................... 46

RGGS Core Metamorphism Biwabik Iron Formation ..................................................................................................... 47

Systematic Survey & Characterization of Amphibole ..................................................................................................... 48

Upgrading Iron from Lean Ore Stockpiles and Tailings Basins on the Mesabi Iron Range and Producing Value-Added

Iron Products .................................................................................................................................................................... 49

Utility of Taconite Materials as Road Patch for Highway Construction .......................................................................... 50

Minerals, Industrial

By-Product Aggregate, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation ............................................... 51

Comparative Performance Study of Chip Seal & Bonded Wear Course Systems Applied to Bridge Decks ................... 52

Evaluate and Develop Innovative Pavement Repair and Patch ....................................................................................... 53

Geological Resources of Ox Tac Ore in the Vicinity of the Canisteo, Hunner, King, Jennison, Buckeye, Jessie 1 and 2,

and West Hill Mines: A Continuing Evaluation of Ox Tac Resources in Itasca County ................................................. 54

Modification of the NRRI Pellet Fines Removal System to Provide More Durable Wear Parts to Improve the Physical

Availability of the Unit to Minnesota Taconite Operations ............................................................................................. 55

Product Development Project for KonCote Products ....................................................................................................... 56

Minerals, Non-Ferrous

Copper-Nickel-PGE Mineralization Potential of the Cloquet Lake Intrusion, NE MN ................................................... 57

Evaluation of Tailings Generated by CU-NI Ore Processing ........................................................................................... 58

Further Evaluation of Diamond Base Metal and Precious Mineral Potential of Minnesota Using Various Glacial Till

Sampling and Analytical Methods ................................................................................................................................... 59

Non-Ferrous Hydromet, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation ............................................. 60

Origin and Distribution of Chromium Mineralization in the Duluth Complex and RelatedKeweenawan Intrusives in

Minnesota, and Its Relationship to PGE Mineralization .................................................................................................. 61

Precambrian Research Center .......................................................................................................................................... 62

Rare Earth Potential, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation .................................................. 63

TiO2 Hydromet, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation ......................................................... 64

Peat, Horticultural

Northeast Minnesota White Cedar Plant Community Restoration Project ....................................................................... 65

Peat Expansion Premier Horticulture, Inc ........................................................................................................................ 66

Validation of Wetland Mitigation In Abandoned Borrow Areas - Phase II ..................................................................... 67

Wetland Banking Fens Research Facility ......................................................................................................................... 68

Peat, Industrial Products

Chemical Modification of Peat Granules Surface For Waste Water Treatment ............................................................... 69

Development Of Peat-Based Media For Waste Water Treatment .................................................................................... 70

CARTD Program Notes ........................................................................................................................................................71-78

CENTER FOR WATER AND THE ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................79-111

ECOSYSTEM STUDIES - Land Resources

Identifying Critical Habitats for Moose in Northeastern Minnesota ................................................................................ 80

Investigations of Wolf-Moose Interactions at Voyageurs National Park ......................................................................... 81

Lowland Conifer Bird Species in Agassiz Lowlands ....................................................................................................... 82

Mapping Native Plant Communities of Minnesota`s Forest Lands .................................................................................. 83

Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas ........................................................................................................................................ 84

Post-burn Bird Surveys at Pagmi River, Superior National Forest .................................................................................. 85

Reducing Human-mediated Spread of Non-native Earthworms ...................................................................................... 86

Restoring Moose Foraging Habitat in Lake Superior Upland .......................................................................................... 87

ECOSYSTEM STUDIES - Water Resources

Amity Creek Restoration Project ..................................................................................................................................... 88

Amity Restoration Assessment: Water Quality, Fish, Bugs, People ................................................................................ 89

Ecological Design for the St. Louis River Area of Concern ............................................................................................ 90

Event-based Stream Sampling in Northeastern Minnesota .............................................................................................. 91

GLEI II - Indicator Testing and Refinement .................................................................................................................... 92

Great Lakes Beach Information Communication System ................................................................................................ 93

Great Lakes Biological Monitoring: Phytoplankton ........................................................................................................ 94

Great Lakes Coastal Database and Classification Framework ......................................................................................... 95

Great Lakes Coastal Wetland Monitoring ........................................................................................................................ 96

Indicators of Agricultural Stressors in Coastal Waters of the Great Lakes ...................................................................... 97

Lake of the Woods Paleolimnology Assessment ............................................................................................................. 98

Landscape Metrics for Coastal Wetland Integrity Indices ............................................................................................... 99

North Shore Superior Lake and Stream Water Assessment ........................................................................................... 100

Northshore Superior Periphyton Surveillance ................................................................................................................ 101

Paleolimnology Workplan: Building a Long-term Water Quality Record for the White Iron Chain of Lakes .............. 102

Prioritizing Wetland Restoration for Water Quality and Habitat Improvement ............................................................. 103

Research Development Testing and Evaluation Facility for Ballast Treatment in the Great Lakes Region .................. 104

Stressor Gradients and Spatial Narratives of the St. Louis River Estuary ...................................................................... 105

SWAG Superior Basin Lakes ......................................................................................................................................... 106

Environmental Chemical

Gonadal Deformities in Smallmouth Bass as Indicators of Endocrine Disruption int the St. Louis River Estuary ....... 107

Managing the Nations Fish Habitat at Multiple Spatial Scales ...................................................................................... 108

Land/Water Interactions

LiDAR-based Bluff Assessment for Coastal land Use Planning ................................................................................... 109

CWE Program Notes ........................................................................................................................................................110-111

NRRI BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT ...............................................................................................................................112-114

NRRI PUBLIC RELATIONS ..........................................................................................................................................115-117

Project Highlights

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CENTER FOR APPLIED RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Wood Products and Forestry

NRRI’s Market Oriented Wood Technology Program Partners with the Forest Products Society

and the Forest Products Laboratory for Successful Symposium

NRRI’s Pat Donahue, The Market Oriented Wood Technology Program Director, in collaboration with

the Forest Products Society and the Forest Products Laboratory executed a technical event in Roseville,

Minnesota on April 18-19, 2013, “The North American Wood Window and Door Symposium.” The

Symposium attracted over 100 participants from across North America. This event will be held every two

years in conjunction with the Window and Door Association Technical meeting, it increases the

awareness and technical advancements in the wood window and door industry.

Heating the Midwest Conference Highlights

NRRI’s Brian Brashaw served as the Chair of the annual Heating the Midwest Conference & Expo held

in Carlton, Minnesota on April 24-26, 2013. Over 190 people and 30 vendors attended this conference

that focused on biomass thermal heating in the Midwest. The conference highlights included two tours of

regional biomass heating facilities, presentations on biomass heating success stories, and the presentation

of a regional vision to increase the amount of biomass to provide 10 percent of the Midwest’s thermal

energy. Successful growth in regional biomass heating will create regional supply chain jobs, cut the

amount of fossil fuel imported into the region, and save heating costs for businesses and homeowners.

The 2014 conference will be held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and will be hosted by the Oneida Nation of

Indians and the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay.

Softwood Lumber Testing Completed

NRRI completed a testing project for the Northern Softwood Lumber Bureau to assess the mechanical

properties of the spruce-pine-fir species classification in support of a submission to the American Lumber

Standards Council (ALSC). This monitoring testing is required by the ALSC to determine if significant

changes have occurred to the mechanical properties of visually graded wood species in the U.S. since the

last significant testing in 1991. In cooperation with the Northern Softwood Lumber Bureau, the

Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association, U.S. Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, and

the West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau, the NRRI established and conducted a lumber testing program

for the spruce-pine-fir species. Preliminary assessment showed minimal changes from the 1991 data set.

The data was submitted to the ALSC for review and approval.

The Market Oriented Wood Technology Program Receives Grant Utilizing Waste Taconite

Tailings

NRRI’s Matthew Aro, Research Fellow with The Market Oriented Wood Technology Program, was

awarded a U.S. Economic Development Administration Mining Cluster Product Development Fund

grant. Matt will work with KonCote Products, Inc. to develop a new stucco coating utilizing waste

taconite tailings from Minnesota’s Iron Range.

Department of Energy, Biomass Energy Technology Office Requests Help from Forestry Program

At the request of the Department of Energy, Biomass Energy Technology Office, NRRI’s Bill Berguson,

Forestry Program Director, is coordinating an effort to update short-rotation poplar plantation yield

projection maps for the U.S. This involves many cooperating institutions including GreenWood

Resources (Boardman, Oregon), ArborGen (Tallahassee, Florida), Mississippi State University and

Michigan State University. This work is viewed as a critical part of efforts to highlight accomplishments

of the national biomass production research program and communicate the current state-of-the-art to

leadership within the DOE and industry.

NRRI’s Poplar Breeding Program Introduces New Genetic Material

NRRI’s Poplar breeding is ongoing for the 2013 season and very successful with a high proportion of

viable seed being produced through this effort. New genetic material resulting from this effort will be

propagated for field testing in the Upper Midwest as well as research sites in the Southern U.S.

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Northeast Minnesota White Cedar Plant Community Restoration Project

DNR, BWSR, and Michigan Tech personnel selected and characterized restoration demonstration sites in

four northeast Minnesota counties. Three of those were in Beltrami County, one in Koochiching County,

two in St. Louis County, and one in Lake County. Treatments at the sites will include direct seeding,

seedling planting, plant protectors, clearing brush, adjusting shade, and controlling hydrology. Site work

will begin in the spring of 2013.

E.D.A. Rare Earth Elements Project

Two hundred and twelve rock samples were collected during the summer field season. The samples were

then processed for: 1) making of polished thin sections for petrographic descriptions of the mineralogy; 2)

conducting geochemical analyses for major and minor elements, including a full suite of rare earth

elements; and 3) magnetic susceptibility. All of the sample locations, outcrop descriptions and related

data were entered into a Geographical Information System database. Based in part on the petrographic

descriptions that will be done in 2013, samples will be selected and sent off for geochemical analyses.

One hundred eighty rock samples (from outcrop and drill core that also includes 8 certified rock reference

standards and 2 duplicate in-house internal standards) were sent to Acme Labs in Vancouver, British

Columbia. Upon first review of the data, the most notable results from the analyses were several high

thorium analyses associated with granitic rocks in Lac Qi Parle, Redwood, St. Louis, and Swift counties.

These samples were collected based upon elevated thorium values on samples collected in this area

during the Geothermal Energy project. Thorium is a common accessory element associated with a variety

of rare earth element (REEs) deposits around the world. Some of the elevated thorium samples also have

elevated uranium values. These additional elevated thorium and uranium samples support the geothermal

energy potential of these granitic rocks and may also indicate the presence of REEs elsewhere within the

granites. Several other elevated thorium samples had elevated cerium and lanthanum (light rare earth

elements; >250 ppm cerium and 100 ppm lanthanum) values. Additional evaluation of the data and

related rock samples is underway.

USACE Projects

Erie Pier: During the second half of 2012, work associated with the United States Army Corp of

Engineers (USACE) Beneficial Use of Erie Pier sediment project included vegetation monitoring,

reporting, and planning for a new reclamation project for 2013. Erie Pier sediment was applied to four

sites in 2011 for several different reclamation/restoration purposes. These sites included the Former

Atlas Cement site (Duluth), Moccasin Mike Landfill (Superior), Northland Country Club (Duluth),

and Keewatin Taconite (Keewatin). During the summer or 2012, vegetation growth was observed and

documented. Monitoring for the presence of the invasive plant, Lythrum salicaria (Purple Loosestrife)

was also completed. Where Purple loosestrife was identified, NRRI personnel removed the plants for

proper disposal. Re-vegetation at these sites was observed to be successful. Results from this work are

presented and summarized in NRRI’s Erie Pier Dredge Material Beneficial Use Study Report, which

is in final review. NRRI has completed permitting and securing a trucking firm to deliver

approximately 4,000 cubic yards of Erie Pier sediment to a gravel pit reclamation site owned by

Hibbing Taconite. Delivery of the sediment is anticipated to start in July 2013.

Two technical summary reports (NRRI/TSR-2013/01 and NRRI/TSR-2013/02) were completed and

submitted to the Corps of Engineers during this period. A final draft for a third report (NRRI/TSR-

2013/03) was also completed during this period. This third report will summarize the remainder of the

NRRI project team's work related to various beneficial use applications of Erie Pier dredge material.

Two additional environmental remediation/restoration-related projects were added as contract

amendments in late 2012 and are currently underway: 1) Hibbing Taconite (Hibtac) mine land

demonstration; and 2) Field Monitoring Atlas Brownfield Demo. Both projects will continue into 2014.

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Throughout the first half of 2013, the NRRI project team also participated in meetings, site visits, and

conference calls, and began laying the groundwork for significant follow-up projects/new investigations

related to the beneficial use of dredge material, both locally and on Minnesota's Mesabi Iron Range. As a

result of the work accomplished since the projects began in 2011 and the excellent working relationship

that has been established between NRRI and the Corps of Engineers, additional collaborative projects are

anticipated, and will likely commence in the second half of 2013.

Stamp Sands: NRRI’s Coleraine lab completed testing to evaluate the potential of reclaiming copper

from stamp sands, a byproduct of historic copper mining. Approximately 37 million cubic yards of

stamp sands are located along the shore of Lake Superior near Gay, Michigan. The project

demonstrated that simple gravity separation mineral processing techniques can be used to make an

upgraded stamp sands product having a higher copper content. Testing suggests that the techniques

can be modified to further improve the result, but whether they can be modified (or combined with

other methods) to achieve an upgrade that is sufficiently high-grade (e.g., ≥ 0.7% copper) for making

scaled-up on-site processing economically feasible is in need of further investigation.

MnDOT Project

Evaluate and Develop Innovative Pavement Repair and Patching: taconite-based repair options ---

A project kickoff meeting took place on October 1, 2012, with MnDOT. Field trials of both repair options

(microwave and Rapid Patch) took place October 30 through November 1. Performance monitoring and

documentation of the repairs followed. Contact was made with an individual who expressed an interest in

taconite aggregate delivery to Texas. Performance monitoring indicates that the Rapid Patch and

microwave repair alternatives have excellent long-term potential for more widespread use. Both achieve a

good bond with the existing pavement, which is critical for a resilient and lasting repair. For example,

monitoring of Rapid Patch repairs on a Portland cement concrete (PCC) pavement segment of the

Highway 61 expressway between Duluth and Two Harbors, MN, clearly showed Rapid Patch

outperforming adjacent asphalt repairs. And the microwave repair option appears especially well-suited

for repairing very cold asphalt, because the existing pavement can be heated to the point that the

pavement itself becomes part of the repair.

Keeweenaw Peninsula (KP) stamp sands

A late October meeting took place with Traxys Power and the Corps of Engineers at White Pine, MI, to

discuss options for recovering copper from Gay, MI, stamp sands. Post-discussion communications

suggested that the likely outcome would be a project proposal from the Coleraine Minerals Research

Laboratory, most likely in early 2013.

Yawkey Mineral Management: Mining Cluster Product Development

Discussions were initiated with Yawkey in August of 2012 to consider undertaking a Mining Cluster

Product Development Fund project focused on its high friction surfacing (HFS) aggregate product

potential. An application was submitted, and a project was approved. The projected start-date was early

2013.

Validation of Wetland Mitigation in Abandoned Borrow Pits

Kurt Johnson completed and submitted project Task 4 “Annual Summary Report - FY2013” and project

Task 6 “Data Analysis and Interpretation - FY 2012” to MnDOT. Both were approved. He also presented

“Sphagnum Establishment on Created Gravel Pit Wetlands” based on research conducted at the MnDOT

project site at the Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting held in Duluth, June 2-6, 2013. All 14

mitigation sites have achieved 100% vegetative cover. Invasive species cover varies considerably with

narrow leaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) occurring on the wetter sites and reed canary grass (Phalaris

arundinacea) on the drier sites. The best sites are dominated by native wetland plants and have saturated

soil without standing water and a stable water table. Sphagnum moss only occurs on sites with saturated

organic soil, a relatively stable water table, and where moss was introduced with the salvaged donor soil

or was spread on plots by the researchers.

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Sulfate Reduction in Mining Waters of Northeastern Minnesota

In the spring of 2013, four floating bioreactors were installed in a pit lake on the previous LTV Steel

Mining Company site in Hoyt Lakes, MN. The bioreactors were filled with sulfate reducing bacteria,

which convert aqueous sulfate to hydrogen sulfide. After this bioremediation cycle, the pit water is passed

into secondary cells which precipitate out the sulfide and remove the sulfur from the water column.

Excellent results have initially been measured to show sulfate reduction from 1200 ppm sulfate to 171

ppm sulfate, using this low cost, natural process. Currently, 32 additional floating bioreactor cells are

being installed next to the initial 4 cells. Funding is being provided by NRRI, IRRRB, and private

corporations.

DRI Dust Reduction Project for Nucor Steel, Inc. Extensive dust reduction tests were conducted at CMRL to find a specialized dust suppressant that would

help reduce the excessive dust problem created during rail and cargo shipment of Direct Reduced Iron

(DRI) pellets. Patents are being written to protect the formulation of the dust suppression chemistry

developed. Dust suppression equipment is being installed for applying this chemistry to DRI at Nucor’s

new DRI production plant being built near New Orleans, Louisiana. Specialized DRI dust reduction

equipment invented at CMRL is also being installed to treat the full-scale production of DRI at Nucor’s

Trinidad DRI plant facility.

Environmental Study of Airborne Particulate Matter

Data compilation, evaluation, and interpretation continue. In April 2013, the Natural Resources Research

Institute (NRRI) participated in a special public and media event in Mountain Iron, MN, to present the

first scientific findings from the Minnesota Taconite Workers Health Study. Scientists working on the

Environmental Study of Airborne Particulate Matter presented initial findings regarding PM and elongate

mineral particles (EMPs) in both community and taconite plant settings obtained during field sampling,

which were given further laboratory analysis. Although the NRRI’s aerosol particle sampling protocol is

exclusively for characterization purposes, it is not meant to represent, or to be considered a substitute for,

ambient air sampling, as conducted and reported by regulatory agencies, nor used in exposure/risk

assessment studies. These findings include:

All Mesabi Iron Range community samples meet the EPA - National Ambient Air Quality Standards

(NAAQS) and the Minnesota State Ambient Air Quality Standards for PM10 and PM2.5.

There are no NAAQS standards specifically for EMP. For comparative purposes, all detectable

community concentrations are one to two orders of magnitude below the OSHA/ MSHA Respirable

Asbestos Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for an 8-hour work day, concentration of 0.1 Fibers/cm3.

Total particulate matter concentrations from all four process areas in the six ACTIVE taconite

processing plants range from a low of 141 µg/m3, to a high of 21,000 µg/m3, and averages 3,486

µg/m3. The respirable PM2.5 concentrations range from a low of 72 µg/m3 to a high of 948 µg/m3,

and averages 349 µg/m3.

Laboratory analyses detected Countable Minerals (chrysotile, 5 amphiboles ≥ 5µm) at two of the

plants: ranging from 0.0346 EMPs/cm3 to 0.3219 EMPs/cm3. The MSHA Respirable Asbestos PEL

for an 8-hour work day is a concentration of 0.1 Fibers/cm3 (Countable Minerals) as defined by the

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH 2011). All three samples collected from

the ACTIVE crushing area of Northshore, as well as one of the three samples from the ACTIVE

concentrator at Northshore, exceeded the MSHA PEL.

References to EPA, NAAQS, NIOSH, OSHA, and MSHA standards are for illustrative and comparative

purposes, and are to provide context to the findings in the NRRI study. Several reports are in progress and

nearing completion. A journal manuscript was written, peer reviewed, and accepted for publication

following revisions. Research is progressing such that we anticipate completion of the study in December

2013.

Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory

American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) Paired Straight Hearth (PSH) Furnace - A study was

previously conducted for the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) to evaluate and assess the quality of

Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) produced from deep bed heating and reduction of green pellets. The initial

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work was conducted using a laboratory scale furnace that was developed at Coleraine and specifically

designed to simulate the top down heating characteristic of the PSH furnace process. This study has now

been expanded to evaluate and assess the quality of DRI pellets achieved from deep bed roasting of green

agglomerates in the Linear Hearth Furnace (LHF). The LHF can best be described as a pilot scale

moving hearth iron reduction furnace simulator. To simulate the PSH furnace process, CMRL

will modify the LHF refractories to accommodate the higher operating temperatures (1500oC). In

addition, the furnace exhaust duct will be relocated to zone 3, to exhaust the furnace in a co-current flow.

The furnace car system will be modified to accommodate the deep bed of green pellets, with the base of

the sample cars lined with a single layer of dense, high alumina brick to simulate a castable or solid brick

refractory hearth. A fiber blanket will be used to insulate the car hearth during the return strand to retain

the heat in the hearth. The burner system used during testing will be the oxy-fuel combustion. Sample

cars will be recycled in the furnace until the hearth refractory reaches a desired or equilibrium

temperature at the furnace discharge. Hot cars will be charged with approximately 120mm depth of green

balls. A series of three cars will be fed with green feed components and cycled through the furnace at the

target feed rate for each zone. The reduced pellets produced will be analyzed for metallic iron (Feo), total

iron (FeT), ferrous iron (Fe++

), carbon (C) and sulfur (S) incrementally, from the top down to the hearth to

evaluate heat transfer to the bottom of the bed.

Direct Reduced Iron The trend in the steel industry is an increase in iron and steel produced in electric arc furnaces (EAF) and

a gradual decline in conventional steelmaking from taconite pellets in blast furnaces. In order to expand

the opportunities for both new and existing iron ore mines beyond their blast furnace customer base, the

Coleraine Minerals Research lab has been evaluating opportunities for producing Direct Reduced Iron

(DRI) pellets. A significant amount of effort has been put into mineral processing and chemical flotation

techniques to reduce the silica and gangue mineral content of typical blast furnace concentrates to comply

with the requirements for DRI grade pellets. Low silica concentrates are pelletized using a pot grate

induration system, and are then evaluated metallurgically for quality specifications and reduction

characteristics. The Coleraine lab has situated itself with metallurgical furnaces and techniques for DRI

pellet evaluation using both ISO and specialized HYL methods. To further support this initiative, CMRL

is establishing a direct reduced iron (DRI) pilot scale simulator for reduction of iron ore pellets simulating

commercial natural gas based processes. To define the parameters required for development of the

simulator, a series of tests was conducted, simulating typical HYL/MIDREX gas compositions, reduction

temperature, etc. to quantify and define the quality of DRI produced.

Northeast Minnesota Mining Operations Support

The increased demand for all iron ore has resulted in an increased price for iron units, creating multiple

opportunities for applied research in new/improved technologies or process applications that previously

were not economically feasible. CMRL has been working with northeast Minnesota mining operations,

including U.S. Steel Minnesota Mining Operations, Cliffs Natural Resources Mining Operations, Arcelor-

Mittal Minorca, Magnetation, and Essar Steel Minnesota, supporting developing technologies for process

and product improvement.

Examples of projects that result from process optimization include:

Grinding mill audits to measure and optimize grinding efficiency

Magnetic iron recovery or grade improvement

Non-magnetic iron recovery using mineral processing or chemical flotation

Application of reagents or chemicals for mineral flotation, flocculation, dewatering, or grinding aids

Flowsheet modification

New or improved equipment designs such as High Pressure Grinding Rolls (HPGR), wet and dry

screening, intensive mixing/blending, cyclones, etc.

Organic binders for pelletization

Induration modeling and pot grate furnace pelletizing

Diamond drill core assessment

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Minnesota Mining Cluster

Non-Ferrous Hydromet

This project will explore mineral processing routes to make copper/nickel concentrates, and alternative

hydrometallurgical routes for refinement of the concentrates into metals. Conditions for atmospheric

pressure oxidation and leaching will be explored, along with conditions for copper solvent extraction,

precious metals leaching, precious metal solvent extraction, iron precipitation from copper raffinates, and

nickel and cobalt precipitation.

Approximately 100 kg of Minnesota copper/nickel ore has been processed at the Coleraine Minerals

Research Lab. The primary goal of this project is to investigate the feasibility of using new

hydrometallurgy technology to eliminate the expense of large autoclaves. Composite copper and nickel

grade of the concentrate was approximately 9.6% and 1.1%, respectively. The concentrate was sent to

Process Research Ortech (PRO) in Mississauga, Ontario, for hydrometallurgical testing. In addition to

the typical flotation flowsheet, a novel column flotation technology has been investigated. Initial testing

shows promise, but some modifications are required on the equipment to increase recovery.

Ilmenite - TiO2 Hydromet

The primary objective of this project is to demonstrate an alternative, low-energy, environmentally-

friendly combined mineral processing and hydrometallurgical process to generate TiO2 and high-value

byproducts from Minnesota titanium ore (ilmenite). The outcome of the project will be a credible

demonstration of product quality and process capability, providing a path to reduce U.S. dependency on

foreign sources of titanium dioxide, increase energy efficiency of the TiO2 production process, reduce

environmental burden, allow development of U.S.-owned mineral resources, and provide high quality

U.S. employment opportunities.

Approximately 150 kilograms of Minnesota ilmenite material was prepared by use of high pressure

grinding rolls. The material was bench tested on various beneficiation technologies. Alternative

concentrating technologies that were investigated included:

Low intensity magnetic separation (LIMS)

Dry belt high intensity magnetic separation

Dry induced roll high intensity magnetic separation

High tension (electrostatic) separation

The final flowsheet consisted of high pressure grinding, low intensity magnetic separation, and high

tension (electrostatic) separation. Approximately 20 kg of titanium concentrate was created and will be

sent to Process Research Ortech (PRO) for additional hydrometallurgical testing. Concentrate grade was

approximately 41% TiO2 and 29% total iron.

New Millennium Iron A pilot plant program was conducted to provide supporting data for a feasibility study to develop New

Millennium iron ore resources in the Canadian provinces of Newfoundland, Labrador and Quebec. Two

iron ores were tested, using high pressure grinding roll (HPGR) technology recently installed at the

Coleraine Lab. Objectives of this project were to evaluate the HPGR closing screen size and wet cobber

performance between two different circuits. In addition, development of HPGR design data was also

needed to finalize the circuit and equipment design. In August and September of 2012, approximately

26.5 metric tons of Block B ore were processed in HPGR / Screen / Cobber flowsheets for comparison of

3.0 mm and 0.7 mm screen sizes, to produce 9.6 metric tons of 3.0 mm cobber concentrate and 2.6 metric

tons of 0.7 mm cobber concentrate. The two cobber concentrates (3.0 mm and 0.7 mm) were processed in

the same ball mill circuit, producing a final product size of 53µm. Different feed rates were used to vary

the residence time in the mill, and after the recycle stream reached equilibrium, the silica and Blaine

values for each were measured. Performance of the cobber concentrates was compared at a Blaine of

7

about 1850 on the basis of their silica content. HPGR multipass testing was done with Block A ore to

determine the impact of using HPGRs in series to grind the ore. Three multipass tests were successfully

performed on feed samples at accumulator pressures of 33 Bar, 40 Bar and 50 Bar. Multipass test results

show the P80 of center product decreased below 5.0 mm (5,000 micron) after two feed passes at a HPGR

accumulator pressure of 40 Bar or more. The project final report was submitted in the first quarter of

2013.

Precambrian Research Center (PRC)

The annual Precambrian Research Center Board of Advisors Meeting took place on March 4, 2013, in

Toronto. Planning and promotion was conducted for the 7th annual Precambrian field camp to be held

July 7-Aug. 16, 2013. Twenty-two students from 16 colleges across the United States are enrolled in the

field camp. As well, planning and promotion was conducted for a Professional Workshop to be held Oct.

6-13, 2013, on the topic of “Copper, Nickel, and Platinum Group Element Deposits of the Lake Superior

Region” was conducted. The workshop is co-sponsored by the Society of Economic Geologists and nine

contributing partners from industry. Student support was awarded to UMD graduate students Aubrey Lee

and Craig Caton, who were awarded PRC graduate research assistantships during the spring 2013

semester. In terms of outreach, the PRC played a major organizational role in putting on the 16th annual

Minnesota Minerals Education Workshop held June 18-20 at Hibbing Community College. The workshop

was attended by 76 earth science teachers from across the state, representing grades K-12. Through June

30, PRC Membership donations for the first half of 2013 have totaled $48,000.”

8

CENTER FOR WATER AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Seeing Below the Surface Lake Superior and its tributaries are among the most pristine yet sensitive waters in Minnesota. These

water bodies are potentially stressed by increased urbanization and tourism, with stormwater impacts

potentially worsening with climate change. This creates the unusual challenge of helping the public,

businesses, local elected officials, and educators understand that these resources require protection when

few problems are obvious to the untrained eye. Over the past 17 years, NRRI Center for Water and the

Environment scientists have collaborated with scientists and educators from Minnesota Sea Grant, the

Large Lakes Observatory, the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve at the University of

Wisconsin-Superior, state and federal natural resource agencies (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency,

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, US Geological Survey, and the Army Corps of Engineers),

the City of Duluth, and the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District to monitor and disseminate water

quality data measured by automated remotely operated sensors. These sensors collect data every 5-15

minutes in order to capture the “flashy” changes that occur due to rainstorms, spring runoff, high winds,

and sewage spills and overflows. The ultimate goal is to improve environmental decision-making by: 1)

enhancing public understanding of the connections between weather, hydrology, land use and the

condition of water resources in urban and rural watersheds, and 2) providing easy access to tools to help

accomplish cost-effective restoration of degraded sites and protection of un-impaired resources. The basic

idea is to protect both environmental and human health from water quality degradation by providing

people with a better understanding of how streams, wetlands, and lakes "work," what can mess them up,

and things people can do on their own property and with their own lifestyle to protect water quality,

habitat, and the biological communities inhabiting these water bodies.

“Our” data streams and those from partner groups are posted on a series of interrelated websites via

unique interactive graphing and animation tools to help users better “visualize” the data and conduct

exploratory investigations by comparing sites, times of year, and trends over time. These data and data

visualization tools have provided excellent opportunities for inquiry-based learning about water and basic

science by high school, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as the general public world-wide via

our first “formal” education project www.WaterontheWeb.org (1996-2004) and its daughter community

education projects www.LakeAccess.org in the Twin Cities (1998-2004) and

www.LakeSuperiorStreams.org in the western Lake Superior Basin (2002-present).

When fully operational later this year, the network of water quality sensors will be helpful to scientists

and managers involved with the restoration of the St. Louis River Area of Concern. This work has been

going on since 1989 with restoration activities re-invigorated by funding from the state of Minnesota’s

2008 Legacy Amendment and the federal Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The sensor data, when

combined with satellite sensor measurements and manually-collected data, should provide a detailed

picture of where, when, and how suspended sediment and turbidity (the “muddiness" of the water) occurs

in the system and help focus attention on erosional “hot spots.” Sediment particles are an important

pollutant that decreases water clarity essential to many fish and the bugs they eat, smothers spawning

habitat, damages sensitive gill tissues, and carries nutrients (chiefly phosphorus), heavy metals (e.g.,

mercury), disease-causing organisms, and other industrial contaminants that have caused impairments to

the St. Louis River Estuary and potentially the nearshore waters of Lake Superior.

Forging partnerships with other entities is critical to keeping the monitoring system sustainable over the

long-term. Sharing data with public is central to maintaining relevance and achieving the goals of the

project. Data and their sources are available to agencies and the public via the Data Launch Pad portal at

www.LakeSuperiorStreams.org/streams/data/map. There are now 15 automated sites operated by NRRI,

the Large Lakes Observatory, US Geological Survey, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota

Department of Natural Resources, Minnesota Department of Health, Western Lake Superior Sanitary

District, and Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve. These data are disseminated to

multiple audiences via the websites:

9

http://www.waterontheweb.org/

http://www.lakeaccess.org/

http://www.lakesuperiorstreams.org/

http://www.lakesuperiorstreams.org/streams/data/map

www.lakesuperiorstreams.org

www.GlobalGreatLakes.org

www.StLouisRiverEstuary.org

www.MNBeaches.org

www.ParkPointBeach.org

www.WaterontheWeb.org

Wildlife and Mammal Research Program at UMD-NRRI Large mammals such as moose and deer are iconic species that are aesthetically, economically, and

environmentally important to the state of Minnesota. One of the goals of the mammal and wildlife

research program is to improve understanding of different species so they can be better managed.

Numerous ongoing projects seek to do this by investigating mammal species, including moose, wolves,

Canada lynx, snowshoe hare, bats, beaver, American marten, and mice.

Research on moose is of great importance as moose populations have declined dramatically in

northeastern Minnesota over the past 10 years. Moose population was under 3,000 last year, whereas it

used to be well over 7,000 a decade ago. At NRRI, moose research began when Ron Moen became a co-

chair of the Moose Advisory Committee. This committee was convened by Minnesota Department of

Natural Resources and resulted in the Moose Research and Management Plan. One recommendation in

this report was the habitat research that was begun in 2010. For this research we placed GPS collars on

moose, and collected data that has allowed us to identify characteristics of areas used for giving birth,

foraging, and,for resting when temperatures are warm. Other current projects being conducted by

Master’s, PhD students, and PostDocs are investigating browsing and movement, winter ticks, snails

which carry brainworm parasite, and moose genetics. Additional work is being done in collaboration with

the Minnesota Zoo in the Twin Cities that examines direct and indirect effects of wolves and deer on

moose.

Additional graduate students are conducting research into other mammal species. One project examines

the identification of American Marten habitat through the identification of den sites used throughout the

year. Another focuses on the role of small rodents as prey for carnivore species such as hawks, owls,

marten, fisher, bobcats, and weasels. Rodents can potentially have cascading effects on other species,

making them ecologically important.

We have also begun a new climate change adaptation project for National Parks in the upper Midwest,

working with researchers at Voyageurs National Park and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities to

predict effects of climate change over the next 40 to 50 years on national parks. Temperature fluctuations

can affect the movement of species, and the absence of animals such as deer and moose would alter the

experience of visitors to national parks, making it important to understand and plan for the management

of animal species in this region.

Our projects would not be possible without collaboration with other researchers and entities such as the

Minnesota Zoo in the Twin Cities, the National Park Service, Minnesota Department of Natural

Resources, and the Deer Hunters Association.

10

http://www.lakesuperiorstreams.org/

http://www.globalgreatlakes.org/

http://www.stlouisriverestuary.org/

http://www.mnbeaches.org/

http://www.parkpointbeach.org/

http://www.waterontheweb.org/

Center for Applied Research and Technology Development

11

mkunkel

Typewritten Text

mkunkel

Typewritten Text

Assessment of Biomass Sources for Energy in Northern Minnesota for the Laurentian

Energy Project

Forestry

To assess resources and economic feasibility of procuring woody biomass from poplar plantations, brushlands, and forest

harvest residues for energy for the Laurentian Energy Authority project.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project is funded through the US Department of Energy with the purpose to assess the feasibility of producing woody

biomass for energy for delivery to the Laurentian Energy Authority facilities in Virginia and Hibbing, located in northern

Minnesota. The project will evaluate the economic and practical feasibility of the various biomass options and conduct

research on plantation forestry and harvesting of brushlands. The following tasks are part of this project: (1) assessment of

best management practices for harvesting of brushlands and forest harvest residues, (2) development and analysis of best

available technology for harvesting brushlands, (3) biomass availability and collection technology for forest harvest

residues, (4) biomass availability from rights-of-way and, (5) evaluation of available soils and variation in productivity of

hybrid poplar plantations.

We continue to work with the DOE-Golden Field Office to prepare proposal documents and budgets to facilitate the

extension of the contract. At this point, all revisions to the budget and proposal documents have been made and an

extension to December 31, 2014 has been approved. We anticipate completion of the contractual process leading to

continuation of the project by the end of March 2013. Given the fact that approval to continue the project was received by

the University of Minnesota, we have continued to conduct analyses of biomass supplies and the effects of thinning on

productivity of Red Pine and Aspen for biomass energy. In conjunction with the MFPRC, we have collected growth data

from the network of thinning trials established by NRRI and are in the process of summarizing these data to determine

growth effects through the 2012 growing season.

Contractual arrangements to provide for continuation of this project are complete and approval for continuation of the

project was recently granted. A total of $682,926 has been awarded for this new modification. The Statement of Project

Objectives has been modified to include expanded work on breeding of poplar, harvest logistics associated with handling

forest harvest residues, and assessment of the economic feasibility of producing wood briquettes for use in the Laurentian

Energy Authority facilities. Briquetting research is targeted at enhancing the use of biomass with coal in the existing coal-

handling facilities. Ongoing research work includes breeding of poplar in the greenhouse facility at the NRRI with a high

success rate. Also, new breeding materials produced in the 2012/13 breeding season have been planted at the nursery

facility at the UM-NCROC in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. This material will be used to produce cuttings for a new set of

field clone tests anticipated for planting in 2014.

__________________________________________________________________________

151301/01/2007 12/31/2014Start Date: End Date: Project ID:

__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)William Berguson

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10414-00013380150,000Laurentian Energy Authority, LLC 06/01/2009 05/31/2011

1906-187-6616-001,335,365Laurentian Energy Authority LLC (USDOE ) 01/01/2007 12/31/2014

$1,485,365Total

12

Minnesota Forest Productivity Research Cooperative

Forestry

To improve the productivity and value of natural stands and plantations in Minnesota, develop economically and

environmentally sound silvicultural practices, and transfer this knowledge to Minnesota Forest Productivity Research

Cooperative (MFPRC) members and the public.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This MFPRC is a consortium of University of Minnesota personnel, industry members, and the USDA Forest Service with

the purpose to enhance the productivity of Minnesota's forests. Research done as part of the MFPRC includes Norway Pine

management, aspen productivity research, and hybrid poplar genetics and yield improvement. The goal of Norway Pine

research proposed is to better understand productivity of Norway Pine plantations and optimize management of these stands

both in terms of productivity and value. Aspen research is concentrating on assessment of productivity of regenerating aspen

stands, an important issue as it relates to future wood resources. Hybrid poplar breeding and yield improvement is ongoing

and replaces the previous activity done as part of the MFPRC.

All data were collected from field studies evaluating productivity and effects of thinning in Red Pine plantations and aspen

stands. These data have been entered into computer format and results summarized for the 2012 growing season. In

addition, establishment of a new set of production studies in Red Pine plantations is underway with work completed on plot

establishment and measurement on 21 sites in northern Minnesota. Results of field tests of thinning methods in Red Pine

and Aspen will be summarized and results presented to members of the MFPRC in April.

Studies of Red Pine thinning and aspen production have been analyzed and data presented to MFPRC members in the spring

of 2013. Results of Red Pine thinning continue to show rapid stand recovery in terms of annual growth rates following

thinning in most thinning treatments with the greatest reduction in stand growth being associated with thin-from-below

treatments. To date, data show a considerable degree of flexibility in choice of thinning treatment. Aspen production data

have been analyzed with evaluation of second-growth aspen showing a relatively flat growth phase at mid-rotation with

many stands accruing total stand volume at a decreasing rate. However, merchantable volume continues to accumulate. A

poplar clone test was planted on a site near Thief River Falls in 2012 and maintenance activities on this site continue into

2013. Survival on this site is very high with over 90 percent of trees surviving. Also, growth rates of selected clones bred in

the NRRI breeding program look very high compared to current commercial standards. Data will be collected from this site

in the fall of 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1664-187-6534-0020,000Blandin Paper Company 11/01/2004 06/30/2005

1664-187-6535-0020,000Boise White Paper LLC 07/09/2004 06/30/2005

1664-187-6536-0020,000International Paper Company 09/01/2004 06/30/2005

1664-187-6537-0020,000Minnesota Power 07/14/2004 06/30/2005

1664-187-6538-0020,000Potlatch Corporation 10/28/2004 06/30/2005

1664-187-6558-0020,000Forest Capital Partners LLC 07/01/2005 06/30/2006

1664-187-6563-0020,000Blandin Paper Company 07/01/2005 06/30/2006

1664-187-6562-0020,000Potlatch Corporation 07/01/2005 06/30/2006

1664-187-6561-0020,000Plum Creek 07/01/2005 06/30/2006

1664-187-6559-0020,000International Paper Company 07/01/2005 06/30/2006

1664-187-6560-0020,000MN Power 07/01/2005 06/30/2006

1664-187-6594-0020,000MN Power 07/01/2006 12/31/2006

1663-187-6542-0040,000MN Dep of Natural Resources(DNR) 11/30/2004 06/30/2007

1676-187-6585-0020,000St Louis County Land Department 11/15/2005 06/30/2007

1663-187-6581-00400,000MN Dept of Natural Resources (DNR) 07/01/2005 06/30/2007

1664-187-6593-0020,000Forest Capital Partners LLC 01/01/2007 06/30/2008

13


__________________________________________________________________________

1664-187-6595-0020,000Plum Creek 01/01/2007 06/30/2008

1664-187-6598-0020,000Verso Paper 01/01/2007 06/30/2008

1664-187-6597-0020,000Blandin Paper Company 01/01/2007 06/30/2008

3005-10414-00005642200,000MN DNR 06/26/2008 06/30/2009

3005-10414-0000561520,000State of Minnesota 07/01/2007 06/30/2009

3000-10414-0000697120,000Minnesota Power 12/17/2008 12/31/2009

3000-10414-0000697320,000Blandin Paper Company 12/01/2008 12/31/2009

3000-10414-0000697520,000Potlatch Corporation 12/01/2008 12/31/2009

3000-10414-0000697620,000Verso Paper 12/01/2008 12/31/2009

3000-10414-0000725120,000Plum Creek Timber Company, Inc 12/01/2008 12/31/2009

3000-10414-0001598520,000Minnesota Power 03/23/2010 06/30/2010

3003-10414-0001154820,000St Louis County 07/01/2009 06/30/2010

3000-10414-0000697420,000Forest Capital Partners, LLC 12/05/2008 12/31/2010

3000-10414-0001598020,000Potlatch Corporation 01/01/2010 06/30/2011

3005-10414-0001290020,000MN DNR 09/03/2009 06/30/2011

3000-10414-0001598120,000Verso Paper 01/01/2010 06/30/2011

3000-10414-0001598220,000Plum Creek Timber Company, Inc 01/01/2010 06/30/2011

3005-10414-0002860720,000MN Dept of Natural Resources 11/03/2011 06/30/2013

3000-10414-0002920415,000Minnesota Power 01/01/2012 12/31/2015

$1,275,000Total

14

Regional Biomass Feedstock Partnership-Poplar

Forestry

To conduct research to determine biomass yields of short rotation woody crops using poplar and develop new high-yielding,

disease-resistant poplar clones for biomass production nationally.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project is part of the DOE-funded SunGrant Initiative Biomass Feedstock Partnership national effort to develop

dedicated biomass crops for production of renewable energy. The purpose of this research is to improve yields of woody

crops for energy production focusing on poplar species. The research team is national in scope and consists of personnel

from the University of Minnesota Duluth-NRRI, GreenWood Resources (Portland, Oregon), Mississippi State University,

and ArborGen LLC (Summerville, South Carolina) which has a history of research in the genetic improvement and

production of poplars as well as commercial application of poplar plantations for fiber and energy production. The project is

viewed as a first step in a process to develop a longer term plan leading to improvement of biomass yield through genetic

improvement and plantation management research. Proposed research involves analysis of the state of current poplar

research, evaluation of the potential land resource suitable for poplar production, and establishment of new genetic material

at various locations across the U.S. to evaluate genotype performance over a range of conditions.

Data collection on a total of 36 study sites was completed during the fall and early winter. Research sites include large-

scale studies of genetic material produced in the NRRI breeding program, clone tests on multiple sites in Minnesota, and

yield studies of new hybrids on representative sites throughout Minnesota. A joint paper entitled "The Sungrant Woody

Crops Research Program: Accomplishments and Implications" was presented to the national conference entitled "Science

for Biomass Feedstock Production and Utilization" in October in New Orleans, Louisiana, by Bill Berguson, NRRI Program

Director. This is a joint paper of the Sungrant poplar research consortium made up of university and industry cooperators

from across the U.S.

Work continues on the analysis of genetics tests of poplar as well as coordination of analysis of the yield potential of poplar

across the U.S. At the request of DOE staff, an effort is underway within the Sun Grant program to estimate biomass yields

of all energy crops in the Sun Grant research portfolio. Related to this effort, analyses were done by NRRI in cooperation

with all Sun Grant Poplar team members to develop yield models of poplars across the U.S. in order to enhance the utility of

early-rotation field tests, particularly in the Southern region of the U.S. Data were analyzed to develop a set of equations to

serve as a means of comparison to other field test sites across the nation. Poplar yield data from studies underway in

Minnesota were summarized and submitted for this process in anticipation of a meeting to finalize yield maps in mid-

September.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3014-10414-00012404603,759South Dakota State Univ-(USDOE-Prime) 01/01/2009 09/30/2013

$603,759Total

15

Developing Thermal Verification Guidelines for Firewood

Forest Products

The objective of this project is to improve the current temperature monitoring process for heat treating firewood by

developing the necessary background data that can be used to develop thermal verification guidelines that are primarily

based on the kiln heating conditions to supplement the data from the firewood samples.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Heat sterilization is currently the most practical and official treatment to kill Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) in infested ash

firewood. To stop further spread of EAB, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has enforced a

heat treatment process for the U.S. firewood industry to heat sterilize all hardwood firewood before it can be shipped out of

infested areas. Yet, many firewood producers have had challenges implementing the heat treatment process in firewood

operations due to a lack of sufficient heating facilities and a reliable temperature monitoring system. Significant operator

errors were also found to occur in the current monitoring process. The purpose of this project is to improve the current heat

treatment process by developing generic thermal verification guidelines that are primarily based on kiln conditions,

eliminating most operator errors that exist in current heat treatment practices. This project will be conducted by a

multidisciplinary team that include university and federal laboratory researchers, state wood products specialists, USDA

APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine officers, and field regulatory staff from several states.

We have identified several potential Minnesota cooperators to help our project team acquire the needed data on temperature

profiles of firewood and the control temperatures and humidity of the kilns used for drying firewood. Price Firewood of

Cloquet, Minnesota has purchased and is installing a new kiln that will be used in this project. Several heating trials were

conducted at Savannah Pallet in cooperation with Price Firewood. NRRI staff worked to identify new commercial firewood

producers in this project. In Wisconsin, John's Welding will participate as a testing location in the spring of 2013. Current

Minnesota firewood producers that are currently certified by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as heat treated

firewood producers were contacted to assist with data gathering though none were responsive.

NRRI staff constructed and trialed a wet bulb temperature monitoring device during kiln recertification at John's Welding in

Tomah, Wisconsin, in March 2013. Additional changes to the device were made and are planned for use during heat

recertification runs in the Winter 2013.

NRRI staff identified additional equipment for monitoring relative humidity in a harsh environment. This new equipment

will be evaluated in addition to traditional wet bulb devices at the USDA Forest Products Lab in Madison, Wisconsin, and

then used to collect data during new and recertification runs in Minnesota and Wisconsin in the Fall and Winter 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Brian Brashaw

Timothy Hagen

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10414-0001600343,996USDA Forest Service 07/01/2010 06/30/2013

$43,996Total

16

Development and Integration of Advanced Timber Bridge Inspection Techniques for

National Bridge Inspection Standards

Forest Products

Help Minnesota bridge inspectors and engineers develop and implement advanced inspection techniques for timber bridges

and serve as a model for State Department of Transportation and their partners.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Minnesota’s Nobles County experienced a timber bridge failure in 2010, raising concerns among city, county, and state

engineers about the current practice of timber bridge inspections. Inspections for timber bridges have been mostly limited to

visual inspection, hammer sounding, and probing. These techniques have proven appropriate for advanced decay detection,

but are inadequate for early stage or internal deterioration. It is critical that efforts be conducted to develop and implement

advanced timber inspection techniques into routine bridge inspections in accordance with National Bridge Inspection

Standards (NBIS) requirements.

A worldwide review of commercial nondestructive inspection technologies for timber bridges was completed and used to

generate a list of equipment that could be used in Minnesota. Information on equipment costs and recommended application

was collected. Demonstrations or access to equipment was requested from the manufacturer should the project team not

currently own the equipment. Demonstrations were provided by IML USA and RINNTech, manufacturers of new

resistance microdrill technologies.

Timber bridge inspection protocols for the most promising equipment identified in the previous activity were developed. As

part of this activity, the Minnesota Department of Transportation Bridge Inspection Manual (version 1.9, 2011) and the

AASHTO Guide Manual for Bridge Element Inspection were used to define the target bridge elements (members) for which

inspection protocols were required for the project.

Comprehensive inspection protocols for timber bridges were prepared using a wide variety of techniques to assess the

condition of wood in service. These include: visual, moisture content, mechanical probing, resistance microdrilling, and

stress wave or ultrasound-based technologies. These techniques are based on solid technical information, supporting

research, and field experience. These protocols were developed for all timber elements including piling, pile caps, girders,

decks, abutments and wing walls, and other members. A special emphasis was on techniques near or below the water line.

The project team also began to develop strategies for integrating the results of inspections using advanced wood NDE

equipment into the Structure Information Management System (SIMS) that is used by Minnesota bridge owners and

maintained by MnDOT. Access to the SIMS test site was granted to the principal investigator.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3005-10414-00031663199,786MN Department of Transportation 08/06/2012 01/31/2015

$199,786Total

17

Development of Torrefied Wood as a Biofuel

Forest Products

To develop the densification parameters for a mixed hardwood/softwood wood species torrefied to a specification of 30

percent Dry Solids Loss (DSL) at 300°C.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Effective use of biomass requires pretreatments to allow material to be used without significant modification of existing

combustion systems. Ideally, pretreated biomass should have properties that allow the materials to be deployed in a manner

similar to fuels currently used. One such pretreatment technology is torrefaction. Torrefaction is a thermal process in which

biomass is heated in an oxygen deprived atmosphere at temperatures of 270° to 300°C. Torrefaction requires a biomass

combustor in combination with a dryer placed upstream of a reactor capable of heating to 300°C in an oxygen deprived

atmosphere. The combustor provides heat for the process by combusting a fraction of the solids exiting the dryer, while

remaining solids from the dryer enter the torrefaction reactor. This environment drives off volatiles, thereby changing the

nature and properties of the product.

Compaction pressures varying from 200 to 2,500 bar were trialed in a manual 2 in. briquette press with a 300°C/30 percent

DSL torrefied feedstock ground through a hammer mill equipped with a 1/4 in screen. The mill essentially reduced the

material to a powdery consistency where 50 percent of the material between 8 and 50 mesh and 50 percent was smaller than

50 mesh. Grinding energy for this material was measured at ~23 kwh/ton. Although good quality pucks were produced

under these pressures and grinds, none of the compactions could survive significant immersion periods in water.

Deterioration and disintegration of the compacted matrix (regardless of pressure, grind spec or moisture) became evident in

the first few hours of immersion. This forced the project team to consider other compaction and heating regimes uniquely

positioned to fit the unique rhelogical properties of a hot torrefied feed stock.

Success was recently gained by using a specified compaction regime for a 1 in. heated die press. The compaction regime

encompasses the following steps: (1) 10 gram loading of powdered torrefied biomass at nominal moisture of 1 to 2 percent,

(2) compress to 4,000 lbf and hold, (3) heat quickly with MAPP Torch for 90 seconds, (4) during heating, observe lbf

migrate downward in response to material becoming plasticized, (5) after pressure has migrated to 200 lbf, re-apply 4,000

lbf and hold for 10 seconds, (6) release and eject puck and record temp of exiting puck. With this specific procedure, the

puck surface temperature at time of ejection is about 205°F. The pucks had a specular shiny surface, a density of greater

than 70 pcf absolute, and if appropriately torrefied survive a 72 hr immersion period in water with internal bond indicies of

12 to 13 psi recorded. It was noted that between 20 to 30 percent DSL at 285° and 300°C, internal bond deteriorates

significantly with greater deterioration noted at 300°C.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Timothy Hagen

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1026-10414-20090-01850970,000 07/01/2011 06/30/2014

$70,000Total

18

Evaluation and Demonstration of Nondestructive Assessment Technologies for

Sorting Eastern Hardwoods

Forest Products

To evaluate several technologies including vibration, acoustic, tomography, thermography, and laser technologies for

identifying critical material defects and for assessing potential product performance from hardwood materials prior to

manufacturing into guitars and baseball bats, to assess the potential for these technologies to be used for other high value

end products, and to identify commercial vendors that are capable of adapting equipment or developing new equipment.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Recent advances in nondestructive assessment technologies offer opportunities to evaluate hardwood raw materials,

particularly the potential quality of material that is used in the manufacture of high value specialty products. This proposed

effort will focus on evaluation of several technologies for assessing the quality of material to be used in high value specialty

products, with an emphasis on raw materials for use in manufacturing guitars and baseball bats. The outputs from this

project would include an evaluation of these technologies and equipments, demonstration on these products, and the

suitability for use in other high-value products.

A tour of both C.F. Martin Guitar (Nazareth, Pennsylvania) and Rawlings Adirondack (Dolgeville, New York) was

completed to understand the types of defects and opportunities for including nondestructive evaluation technologies in their

operations. The specific defects identified at C.F. Martin Guitar were identified as compression microcracking that

occurred from wind breaks during forest growth or harvest. Samples were obtained for conducting in-depth trials using

nondestructive evaluation technologies such as thermography or laser shearography. Preliminary testing was completed

with thermography, showing some potential for identifying cracks.

Due to other project priorities, minimal activity was completed in this reporting period. Ongoing assessment of

nondestructive evaluation technologies for the hardwood industry is ongoing and will be used during an information webinar

in early 2014.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________



$50,000Total

19

Grand Log Homes

Forest Products

To fully develop the Grand Log technology by developing the production process, producing enough product to complete

performance testing, constructing a demonstration site, and producing trade show booth and sales samples which will lead to

the start-up of a manufacturing plant in northern Minnesota by the end of 2011.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Grand Log Homes™ has developed the Grand Log™, which combines the durability, authenticity, and curb appeal of solid

logs with greater energy-efficiency, stability, and remodeling options, along with less weight and much lower life-cycle

costs. The Grand Log™ hybrid log technology is the culmination of original NRRI research and maintenance field data

from more than 160 North American installations of a veneered foam-core log siding.

Grand Log Homes™ will compete in the 4+ billion dollar log home marketplace with more than 55 years of battle-tested

product design, engineering, product commercialization, manufacturing, construction, and sales experience. This

marketplace includes log home package sales, large diameter log siding sales, and log installation revenues. Grand Log

Homes™ will focus on the log home, hospitality & upscale rustic construction industries, in addition to the architectural,

governmental, and vacation homeowner segments of the marketplace.

Log siding materials were produced using a 16-ft long manufacturing jig and clamping system. Key design improvements

were completed and additional samples were assembled at NRRI. These samples were used to finalize the design and begin

construction of a concept carriage home. Feedback from industry trade shows was positive from both commercial and

residential users.

NRRI staff continued to provide testing and manufacturing support to Grand Log Homes during this reporting period. The

formal project has ended, but Grand Log Homes continues to move forward with the completion of the carriage house

demonstration site, and is working to secure additional capitalization funds. The following outcomes were achieved in the

project:

(1) Development of an engineered log siding product and the process to manufacture the product.

(2) Performance testing showing that a well-manufactured siding has good glueline durability performance.

(3) Market development through participation in several log home shows.

(4) Establishment of a manufacturing and sales center in Cohasset, Minnesota, creating two jobs.

NRRI staff will continue to monitor and support Grand Log Homes during the next 12 months.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Victor Krause

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3001-10412-0002420525,769Blandin Foundation 01/01/2011 12/31/2012

$25,769Total

20

Thermal Modification Research for Engineered Wood Materials

Forest Products

Advance thermal-modification technology toward the development of advanced, high-performing engineered wood products

with drastically-improved dimensional stability, resistance to biodegradation and weathering, and reduced environmental

impacts.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project will leverage the expertise of several Knowledge-Enhancement Partners, student researchers, and public and

private stakeholders to advance thermal-modification technology toward the development of advanced, high-performing

engineered wood products with drastically-improved dimensional stability, resistance to biodegradation and weathering, and

reduced environmental impacts. This project will break the barrier from limited product applications and advance the

platform toward new, high-volume, and in-demand engineered wood products markets.

Project Partners include: Aspen Research Corporation; C.S. Industries LLC; Marshall W. Nelson & Associates, Inc.;

Wisconsin Business Innovation Corporation.

A project kick-off meeting was held at Aspen Research Corporation in November to discuss project goals, objectives, roles,

and expectations were discussed.

Also, our new thermal modification pilot plant (which will be used extensively in this project) was installed in the Fall 2012

in partnership with C.S. Industries LLC.

The NRRI team consulted with Louisiana-Pacific to select the first products to be thermally-modified: selected were two

types of plywood and oriented strand board (OSB). The plywood was purchased locally, and the OSB was donated by

Louisiana-Pacific.

The plywood has been thermally modified at five different treatment intensities. The OSB has been thermally modified at

three different levels. For each treatment level, cycle time, pressure, temperature, and water spray control were recorded

and analyzed.

The treated panels were then trimmed to the required sizes for mechanical/physical performance testing. The tests

conducted included bending tests (modulus of rupture/modulus of elasticity), screw- and nail-holding strength, internal

bond, water absorption, and thickness swell. Preliminary technical reports describing the water absorption, thickness swell,

and bending test results were prepared and shared with the project partners at Louisana-Pacific and the USDA Forest

Products Laboratory.

Principal Investigator Matt Aro and Scott Johnson have also had discussions with Dr. Igor Kolomitsyn to analyze the

composition of the process water collected from the thermal modification process. The first sample analysis is underway.

Also, Aspen Research Corporation has begun optical and scanning electronic microscopy analysis of some of the treated

wood samples. Matt Aro and Co-Principal Investigator, Brian Brashaw discussed a preliminary strategy for publishing the

project’s technical results. Matt Aro attended an NSF required grantees workshop in Arlington, Virginia, to learn more

about NSF programs and PI/grantee financial and technical reporting requirements.

__________________________________________________________________________


Principal Investigator(s)Matthew Aro

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10414-00030010599,550National Science Foundation 09/01/2012 08/31/2014

$599,550Total

21

Update of Forest Products Laboratory General Technical Report 7 - Machine Grading

of Lumber-Practical Concerns for Lumber Producers

Forest Products

The scope of the project will be to provide a comprehensive update of a popular Forest Products Laboratory report: General

Technical Report 7, Machine Grading of Lumber-Practical Concerns for Lumber Producers.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

General Technical Report 7, Machine Grading of Lumber-Practical Concerns for Lumber Producers, was originally

published in 1977 by the US Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory. An update to this publication was completed in

2000. Since that time, new equipment, production scenarios, forest resource changes, and other issues have arisen, resulting

in the need to update the publication.

This is a new project, no previous activity to report.

General Technical Report 7 has been marked up to determine the appropriate changes and updated information that will

need to be generated in the project. A survey was prepared and sent to all known American Lumber Standards Council

approved equipment providers. The objective of the survey was to develop information on their product line and capacity in

order to provide new information for the General Technical Report 7 publication.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3014-10414-0003088125,000Mississippi State Univ-USDA Forest-Prime 06/07/2012 05/31/2014

$25,000Total

22

Use of Laser Scanning Technology to Obtain As-Built Records of Historic Covered

Bridges

Forest Products

To examine the technical feasibility of using laser scanning technologies for obtaining as-built records for historic covered

timber bridges.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Covered bridges have been the fabric of American life. Today there are several hundred historic covered bridges remaining.

Although there is much effort to preserve these structures, often times high cost of restoration, neglect, and vandalism takes

its toll, and many are lost forever. One of the more famous bridges from the movie "Bridges of Madison County" was

burned down. The National Park Service’s Historic American Engineering Record (HAER) has efforts underway to

document historic structures and consists of measured and interpretive drawings, large-format photographs, and written

historical reports. In order to assist in this effort, new technologies need to be explored which can provide as-built records at

a faster rate with more accuracy. This research will explore the use of laser scanning technology to scan existing bridges for

purposes of obtaining as-built records.

A final report on the 3D laser scanning of six historic covered bridges was completed and provided to the USDA Forest

Products Laboratory. This report noted the following conclusions: (1) 3D laser scanning can be used to rapidly scan historic

covered bridge structures. (2) Post-processing of the scan data requires experience and skill to cost-effectively create as-

built documentation. (3) A 3D scanner can be used to create a range of outputs that include point cloud scans, parametric

images, and 2D and 3D AutoCAD® drawings. For historic covered bridges, this information can be used for a variety of

purposes including as-built documentation and structural assessment, while also providing detail on the land topography

adjacent to the bridge.

A final report was submitted to the sponsoring agency. In this report, the process for conducting laser scanning of historic

bridges was documented using the Amnicon Falls, Wisconsin historic covered bridge as a case study. The following

conclusions were made from the study:

• 3D laser scanning can be used to rapidly scan historic bridge structures. A 3D scanner can be used to create a range of

outputs that include point cloud scans, parametric images, and 2D and 3D AutoCAD® drawings.

• 3D scanning provides millions of data points of information. The point clouds of data collected depict all visible aspects

and actual dimensions of the bridge. This information can be used to determine areas of the bridge that show excessive

deflection, rotation or skew of the structure, damaged members, and other visual indicators that a human eye cannot easily

identify or quantify.

• With new access to lower cost laser scanning technology, a comprehensive inspection protocol for historic covered bridges

should include: (1) 3D laser scanning, (2) visual inspection, (3) hammer sounding and probing, (4) moisture content

inspection, (5) stress wave timing, and (6) resistance microdrilling.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10414-0001262783,000USDA Forest Products Lab 07/28/2009 03/31/2013

$83,000Total

23

Wolf Wood - Thermal Modification of Regional Timber Species

Forest Products

To assess the properties of regional softwoods and hardwoods that have been thermally modified with NRRI hydrothermal

timber modification process.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The overall goal is to use and develop manufacturing specification and process-flow models (collectively called “recipes”)

and advanced screening methods to analyze the performance of wood window and door components and parts manufactured

from thermally-modified ash, red pine, white pine, and/or aspen and to provide a direct comparison of their performance

properties with non-modified wood and components made from non-modified ponderosa pine that has been dip treated in

traditional water-repellant preservatives.

There is no previous activity/results to report. This is a new project.

Kiln dried black ash, red pine, white pine, and aspen were purchased and have been thermally modified at 165° and 180°C.

Matched control specimens (non-modified) were prepared as well. The thermally-modified lumber is currently undergoing

mechanical and physical performance testing (testing may include modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR),

screw withdrawal strength, and splitting resistance).

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Patrick Donahue

Matthew Aro

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3000-10414-0003682612,850Wolf Wood, Inc. 03/21/2013 07/21/2013

$12,850Total

24

Wood Utilization Research 2010

Forest Products

Major goals include: (1) helping existing small and mid-size wood products companies remain or become competitive

through research and development, (2) conducting forest productivity work in hybrid poplar, red pine, and other Minnesota

species to ensure the sustainability of the forest products industry and to help Minnesota meet their 2025 renewable energy

mandate, and (3) formation of new regional industries based on forest products materials and technologies.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The overall focus of the project is to complement a program of the University of Minnesota Duluth, Natural Resources

Research Institute (NRRI). The NRRI program is partially funded by the State of Minnesota, to assist with the sustainable

development of private sector forest products opportunities in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. Specific sub-projects

include: (1) Assessment of the Species Effect on Pellet Production, (2) Thermally Modified Strand Composite Panels, and

(3) Development of New Silicone-based Non-toxic Binders for Wood Materials.

NRRI has worked with the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa to assess the performance of a variety of wood

species and their composition for use in producing wood pellets.

NRRI utilized the remaining funds from this grant to participate in Heating the Midwest. The annual conference was held

April 24-26, 2013 in Carlton, Minnesota. It was attended by over 190 people and the trade show expo had over 30 booths

representing heating technologies, engineering, and other associated organizations. The highlight of the conference was the

presentation of "A Midwest Vision" calling for the Midwest to increase the amount of biomass used for thermal energy and

combined heat and power. The new Vision calls for achieving 10 percent of thermal energy by 2025, an increase from the

current level of 3.5 percent. NRRI staff member Brian Brashaw serves as the chair of the Heating the Midwest Steering

Committee and served as the chair of the April conference.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10414-00000-000163162,811USDA National Inst of Food & Agriculture 09/01/2010 08/31/2013

$162,811Total

25

Betula Extractives


Technology of birch bark processes into natural products. Sample preparation.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The scientific background of this is nearly 15 years of research by the Laboratory of Chemical Extractive (LCE) at the

Natural Resources Research Institute in the identification, extraction, and isolation of the constituents of birch bark.

No previous activities to report.

Results of this work to date are presented in patents, papers, and a comprehensive review in Natural Products Report. The

Laboratory of Chemical Extrative conducted broad biological screening of all birch bark products and their derivatives on

anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammation, anti-viral, anti-proliferation, anti-cancer, and immune stimulation activity.

The technology of birch bark processing is ready to be transferred to small business partner Betula Extractives LLC.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Pavel Krasutsky

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3001-10412-0003601119,500Blandin Foundation 03/01/2012 03/31/2015

$19,500Total

26

Development And Commercialization Of A Biorefinery For Processing DDGS In

Biofuels And Other Value-Added Products


To develop and optimize parameters of Dried Distillers Grains and Solubles (DDGS) processing into value-added products

at lab scale and pilot scale industrial conditions with a subsequent commercialization of the value-added products.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Minnesota's corn ethanol industry produces millions of tons of a lower value co-product called Dried Distillers Grains and

Solubles (DDGS) that is marketed as a feed product. It has been determined that the components of DDGS can be

selectively extracted yielding a liquid fraction (oil and solubles) and a solid fraction (a higher protein distillers grain).

Research and development was directed towards optimization biodiesel synthesis process using DDGS extract. Two

approaches were explored: (1) batch process of biodiesel synthesis with the use of different heterogeneous and

homogeneous catalysts, and (2) continuous process with the use of heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. It has been

discovered that process (2) is more efficient than homogeneous catalysts. Optimal parameters "solvent-to-oil ratio,

temperature and retention time in reaction zone" have been determined. A sample of oil was obtained and used for this

process of transesterification with ethanol. A sample of solubles was transferred to GlycosBio for optimization of the

process of bioconversion.

During this reporting period, all planned research and development works have been successfully fulfilled and the project is

prepared for transferring to industrial partner for biorefinery projection and construction. Economical criteria and

assortment of additional valuable products have improved. All technological processes of the project have been piloted on

the laboratory and industrial pilot scale equipment. The yield of the most valuable product zein has been increased from 2%

to 14%. Samples of all products have been produced, analyzed, and transferred to industrial partners. All procedures are

ready for industrial pilot scale operations. An economical model of biorefinery was created and adjusted to the economical

model of the corn ethanol plant. A $400 gain in revenue from a ton of DDGS was shown that would be realized at the

baseline conditions that we modeled.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Pavel Krasutsky

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3006-10419-00025792100,000Minnesota Corn Growers Association 03/23/2011 09/01/2012

1780-10419-21314-00025760,000MN Initiative for Renew Energy&Env(IREE) 11/01/2011 09/01/2012

3006-10419-00028299155,000Agricultural Utilization Research Inst 05/31/2012 09/30/2013

$315,000Total

27

Midwest Gypsum, Inc


To develop value-added products from recycled gypsum.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project seeks to develop value-added products from recycled gypsum.

This project was funded through the NRRI product development fund.

The project activities have been completed with various production and testing assessments. Based on potential intellectual

property and business competitiveness concerns, the information is considered confidential. A final report was completed

and submitted to the client detailing the results of the production trials, testing, and possible commercial applications.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Timothy Hagen

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3001-10412-0002981716,805J & J Knight Foundation 08/15/2011 12/31/2012

3001-10412-000298157,852Blandin Foundation 05/15/2011 12/31/2012

$24,657Total

28

Compressed Air Energy Storage in Northern Minnesota Using Underground Mine

Workings

Energy

The objective of this project is to explore the feasibility of utilizing underground Compressed Air Energy Storage(CAES)to

capture the benefits of being able to shift intermittent energy production in the region to times of greater need and usage.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This Compressed Air Energy Storage(CAES) technology feasibility project targets using underground caverns from iron

mining and non-ferrous mining on the Minnesota Iron Range(s) and Duluth Complex's copper-nickel areas. Compressed Air

Energy Storage has high potential to be a solution to the challenges of integrating large amounts of intermittent renewable

energy sources, such as wind and solar power, into the grid. CAES is currently one of the most viable large-scale energy

storage options under study across the U.S. With research and planning, CAES has the potential to enable and enhance the

utilization of wind and solar power in the region.

Funding for this project was received in December 2012. A meeting of the geological, facilities, environmental, and policies

teams was planned for January 2013 to further define the project and its goals.

Teams met for the first meeting in Hinckley and also communicated via conference call and computer. Various

presentations by each group were given at that time, outlining the work to be pursued:

CAES Budget and Introduction; CAES Budget Breakdown; Underground Sites for CAES; Key Questions to be Answered;

and CAES Storage Options. These data and a transcript of the meeting were sent to all team members after the meeting.

Another team meeting was planed for mid- to late summer 2013 to review progress and continue to define work, potential

sites, equipment required, and to address policy questions.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1780-10416-21314-100001119,071IREE - RL-0021-13 12/01/2012 12/01/2014

$119,071Total

29

Hydrothermal Processing of Biomass Materials

Energy

To conduct research that relates to processing of renewable fuels so as to improve the useful quality of biomass fuels by

means of hydrothermal treatment. Exploration is planned regarding various kinds of biomass, including forestry, agricultural

products, and energy crops, in bench top scale hydrothermal processing experiments, followed by characterization of the

obtained products.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The term "Hydrothermal Carbonization" (HTC), or "HTC-processing" means exposure of material to elevated temperature

in water media. Compared to the more common Torrefaction (TM) process, the hydrothermal process shows the same

effects at more mild conditions. Hydrothermally processed biomass, commonly called as Biocoal, is friable, almost

odorless, and shows higher bulk density, lower equilibrium moisture and ash content. This makes Biocoal an effective and

manageable fuel for heat/power processing, residential heating, and other applications.

Hydrothermal processing advanced a suitable method for fabrication of Biocoal from wet slurries, farm wastes, waterweeds,

etc. Lab tests have been done at variable temperature, pressure and load ratios in order to find the best conditions for carbon

and energy recovery. The proper process temperature was found to be 250-260 deg. C for woody biomass and 235-245 deg.

C for herbaceous materials and farm wastes. The resulting solid fuel product (Biocoal) shows a higher heating value of 23

kJ/g (kilojoules/gram) and above, and can easily be fired in coal-burning furnaces and boilers, or be briquetted/pelletized for

residential heating.

A set of advanced tests on HTC-Biocoal processing have been done with a batch of cattails that originated from the Senegal

River valley of Mauritania. Based on the results obtained, we introduced a project of the two-ton/day Biocoal demo plant

for installation in the Senegal river region. The process flow diagram has been developed, and the basic equipment

parameters have been established. The project has been introduced to the Mauritanian authorities, to the U.S. Agency for

International Development (USAID), and other funding bodies.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Donald Fosnacht

David Hendrickson

Andriy Khotkevych

Richard Kiesel

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1750-10417-20090-100001110,000PUF Mineral Endowment 01/09/2012 06/30/2014

$110,000Total

30

Minnesota Department of Agriculture Hydrothermal

Energy

To improve the fuel value and manageability of Biomass by conversion to Biocoal using Hydrothermal Carbonization

(HTC) technology. The project is multidisciplinary, and comprises technological studies, densification tests, biological tests,

and by-products investigations. The Biomass materials to be studied comprise common local energy crops and the large-

capacity agricultural/food industry wastes.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The term "Hydrothermal Processing", or "HTC-processing" means exposure of material to elevated temperature in water

media. Compared to the more common Torrefaction process, the hydrothermal process shows the same effects at more mild

conditions. Hydrothermally processed biomass, commonly called as Biocoal, is friable, almost odorless, and shows higher

bulk density, lower equilibrium moisture and ash content. This makes Biocoal an effective and manageable fuel for

heat/power processing, residential heating, and other applications.

Hydrothermal processing advanced a suitable method for fabrication of Biocoal from wet slurries, farm wastes, waterweeds,

etc. Lab tests have been done at variable temperature, pressure, and load ratios in order to find the best conditions for

carbon and energy recovery. The proper process temperature was found to be 250° to 260°C for woody biomass and 235° to

245°C for herbaceous materials and farm wastes. The resulting solid fuel product (Biocoal) shows a higher heating value of

23 kJ/g (kilojoules/gram) and above, and can easily be fired in coal-burning furnaces and boilers, or be briquetted/pelletized

for residential heating.

The multi-disciplinary studies have been done on processing the HTC-Biocoal out of woody biomass (hardwood, softwood,

mixed samples), conventional energy crops (switchgrass), farm wastes (corn cobs and stovers), and food industry wastes

(potato peelings and sugar beet pulp). The optimal process parameters – temperature, residence time, and load ratios have

been determined for each kind of feedstock. It was found that the HTC-process is generally not specific to the nature and

condition of raw Biomass material – this allows further processing the Biocoal out of the seasonal or blended feedstock on

the same line. The process exploration tests have been followed up with the densification trials, which demonstrate that the

Biocoal can be easily briquetted and/or pelletized. The project also includes the identification/quantification and primary

biological tests of the liquid by-products, which are now in progress.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Timothy Hagen

Andriy Khotkevych

Matthew Aro

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3005-10417-0003309076,978MN Department of Agriculture 10/01/2012 12/31/2013

1780-10417-21314-00033020,093IREE-Match 10/01/2012 12/31/2013

1750-10417-20090-00033056,885PUTF Mineral Endowment 10/19/2012 12/31/2013

$153,956Total

31

New and Improved Zinc-Air Battery System and Devices

Energy

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Classic Zinc-Air cell technology suffers from three major

drawbacks. These are:

1. Some of the shortest calendar life among all

conventional chemical batteries;

2. Classic rechargeable Zinc-Air batteries have

poor cycleability;

3. Conventional Metal-Air technology is known

for its poor rate capability.

Sharp decay of cell performance as a function of time (calendar life issue) is happening due to irreversible changes in

electrolyte as soon as 6 weeks after the breathing hole in the air cathode has been exposed to air. This project seeks to

develop new and improved primary and rechargeable Zinc-Air cells.

This is a new project. No previous activity to report.

A number of cathode composite materials using oxidative polymerisation, emulsion polymerization, and absorbtion

polymerization techniques were successfully synthesized and delivered to American Energy Technology Company for

further testing as a cathode material for new Zn-Air batteries. New cathode material was characterized by FTIR and

elemental analysis techniques. Structure of lead cathode composite was identified.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Igor Kolomitsyn

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3010-10419-0003418922,000American Energy Technologies (NSF) prime 01/01/2013 06/30/2013

$22,000Total

32

Polymetallic Gas to Liquid Catalysts

Energy

To conduct research and development to produce novel catalysts for thermochemical processing of biofuels based on local

mineral sources.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Recent publications show the significant potential of polymetallic catalysts in Fischer-Tropsch Reaction and related

processes. Compared to the traditional pure iron or cobalt formulations, modification of iron catalysts with copper,

chromium, titanium, manganese and/or others gives better conversion, improves the lifetime of the catalyst, positively

influences the "C5+" selectivity and other parameters. Preparation of polymetallic catalysts requires multistep procedures to

obtain the proper composition. On the other side, a number of minerals available for mining in Minnesota, such as ilmenite

and magnetite, already contain the necessary metals in good proportion alongside the proper carrier compounds. These

minerals may show the catalytic activity, and may be valuable for gas to liquid technology.

A number of catalysts for conversion of syngas to liquid fuels were made on a base of the local mineral ilmenite and a base

of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI). Processing of the catalysts out of DRI was found to be a much more labor and cost effective

procedure as compared to conventional means of catalyst preparation, and as compared to mineral-based catalysts. A

systematic study proceeded with conversion of low-hydrogen (below 50% H2) blends, since this composition is typical for

syngas obtained from biomass. It was also found that CO2/H2 blends can be converted to hydrocarbon mixtures over the

named catalysts. The effects of temperature, pressure and dope metal additives, and certain kinetic studies as well, have

been explored on a regular basis. Both common types of DRI (HYL and Midrex) have been tested as basic materials, and

both demonstrate a good potential for fabrication of the catalysts.

Sufficient information has been acquired, so no lab tests were scheduled for the period. The current stage of the project

includes scale-up simulations and searching industrial partners for commercialization.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)David Hendrickson

Andriy Khotkevych

Richard Kiesel


$190,000Total

33

Addition of Hibbing Taconite (Hibtac) Pilot-Scale Mine Land Demonstration Site For

Application


To evaluate the use of dredge material from the Erie Pier facility in Duluth to restore vegetation at a degraded upland

borrow pit site controlled by Hibbing Taconite (Hibtac). The upland site will also be used for monitoring growth of

potential invasive species such as purple loosestrife, and for assessing best practice control measures. The pilot project will

provide useful comparative information that could be applied to other mine land and marginal land restoration and

reclamation applications.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and NRRI have identified a degraded mine land site

on property controlled by Hibbing Taconite Co. (Hibtac). The site, located north of Duluth on Minnesotaï¿½s Mesabi Iron

Range, provides an opportunity to conduct an additional pilot-scale demonstration project beginning in the fall of 2012.

Approximately 4,000 cubic yards of fine-grained sediment will be transported from a dredge material stockpile at the Erie

Pier sediment storage facility in Duluth, Minnesota, to the Hibtac site. The sediment will be used for conducting a pilot-

scale test of the dredge materialï¿½s capacity for restoring vegetation to a degraded upland borrow pit site. The upland site

will also be used for monitoring growth of potential invasive species such as purple loosestrife, and for assessing best

practice control measures.

A site visit and project planning and coordination with Hibtac personnel took place in the second half of 2012. Delayed

receipt of funding for transportation cost support for moving the dredge material to the Hibtac site required that most project

work be pushed into 2013.

In the first half of 2013, NRRI met with Hibtac personnel at the project site. Hibtac staked out three locations, with each

location intended to receive different dredge material applications. The late spring and wet site conditions delayed the start

of material delivery from Erie Pier to Hibtac. Most material was expected to be delivered after July 1, 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Lawrence Zanko

Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10416-0003433230,000USDOD Army Corps of Engineers 01/01/2012 09/30/2013

$30,000Total

34

Bioremediation for Sulfate Removal in Minnesota Mining Waters


To demonstrate a low cost biological and chemical aqueous sulfate removal technology at pilot scale in a taconite mining

water filled pit capable of reducing sulfate levels from 1200-1500 ppm sulfate to 100-200 ppm sulfate.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The maximum level of aqueous sulfate in mining discharge waters is being reduced to 20-40 ppm by the Minnesota

Pollution Control Agency and the Department of Natural Resources. Current taconite mining water levels of sulfate can

range from 100-1500 ppm of sulfate, and a new, low-cost sulfate remediation technology is needed immediately to avoid the

potential shut-down of taconite operations in the State of Minnesota. Due to the massive volumes of water existing in

taconite mining tailings basins, this new technology must be both practical and scalable to accomplish the treatment of such

large water volumes in both summer and winter months. The Minnesota Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board

(IRRRB) is offering $125,000 in matching funds to NRRI to create this project, along with in-kind support from both Cliffs

Natural Resources (NR) and Polymet Mining.

Modular floating bioreactor cells were designed by a small business in northeastern Minnesota and were built of recycled

plastic materials. CliffsNR and Polymet Mining designated a water-filled mining pit on their joint property near Hoyt

Lakes, MN, to carry out the sulfate reduction demonstration project at pilot scale during 2012 and 2013. The modular

bioreactor floating cells contained recycled fiber media to support the growth of sulfate-reducing bacteria to reduce aqueous

sulfate to hydrogen sulfide. It was planned that hydrogen sulfide process water would then be passed through a cell

chamber containing taconite iron ore, which would convert hydrogen sulfate to precipitated forms of iron sulfide. Therefore,

sulfate would be removed from the mining water environment.

In the winter of 2012, sulfate reducing bacteria were cultured indoors at the Hoyt Lakes site to be ready for filling into the

floating bioreactor cells in the spring. Four modular floating bioreactors were installed in a pit lake location at the previous

LTV site in Hoyt Lakes, MN, in the spring of 2013, with permission of Polymet Mining and Cliffs Erie. The four cells were

mounted on a floating platform near the shore of the pit lake. Water from the lake was pumped continuously through each

cell throughout the spring and summer. Water samples were taken and analyzed by Pace Laboratories in Virginia, MN.

Results showed that the pit water contained 1200ppm +/- 50 ppm sulfate, which dropped to as low as 171 ppm sulfate in the

discharge of the floating bioreactor cells. The system is being tuned to see how low the bioreactor discharges can go in

terms of sulfate concentration. Two solar cells are mounted on the floating platform to charge batteries for operation of the

pumps and sensors. Data is sent remotely to project managers.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1750-10417-20090-100001123,188PUTF Mineral Endowment 09/01/2012 06/30/2014

$123,188Total

35

Erie Pier Dredged Material Beneficial Use Study


(1) Identify landowners willing to participate in demonstration projects and receive fine grained dredged material for

restoration demonstrations.

(2) Evaluate the cost and feasibility of using rail transportation to move Erie Pier fine grained dredged material to potential

recipient sites.

(3) Provide monitoring and results analysis of vegetative health, plant diversity and control of purple loosestrife for

demonstration sites.

(4) Evaluate the effectiveness of using microwave technology to sterilize seeds contained in Erie Pier fine grained dredged

material.

(5) Conduct a laboratory and field assessment of the stamp sand area near Gay, Michigan, within the context of this location

being a potential recipient site for navigation channel material from the Duluth-Superior harbor and/or Erie Pier for

establishing stamp sand-stabilizing vegetative cover.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The University of Minnesota Duluth Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is working with the U.S. Army Corps of

Engineers (COE) to evaluate beneficial use of Erie Pier fine grained sediment dredged from the Duluth-Superior harbor and

stored at the Erie Pier facility located in Duluth, Minnesota. The Erie Pier facility will reach its engineered design capacity

within the next five years. Consequently, finding small, medium, and large-scale sites for beneficially reusing the materials

stored at Erie Pier is an important goal. The current study is evaluating potential beneficial uses for the sediment within

approximately a 60-90 mile radius of Erie Pier, in part as it relates to mine land usage. The project was several components

that will address previously listed objectives.

Second half 2012 highlights:

1)Demonstration site monitoring, documentation, and mitigation for Purple Loosestrife growth control

2)Meetings and site visits/tours with Corps of Engineers personnel

3)Developed work plans for an additional project at Hibtac, expanded activities at Atlas Cement, and for material transport

to Hibtac; all three were added to the overall project

4)Participated in meeting and conference calls specific to the Gay, MI, stamp sands.

5)Completed an interim draft report, and a GIS product for the final report.

6)Final reports for the Stamp Sands, Microwave, and Mineland Reclamation/Demonstration site portions of the project were

begun, with planned completion in early 2013.

Final reports for the Stamp Sands (NRRI TSR2013/01)and Microwave (NRRI TSR2013/02) portions of the project were

completed in early 2013, and submitted to the COE. The final report for the Mineland Reclamation/Demonstration site

portions of the project is in prep. Stamp Sands meetings took place in June in Houghton, MI, where potential follow-up

processing was discussed. Two projects were added in late 2012: a restoration/re-vegetation project at Hibtac (including

material transportation) and expanded water quality monitoring at Duluth's Atlas Cement site. The late winter delayed the

start of the Hibtac project.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$197,500Total

36

Field Monitoring Atlas Brownfield Demo


NRRI and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) in Vicksburg,

Mississippi, are partnering to conduct a benefit analysis for using Erie Pier dredge material to passively mitigate pH at the

former Atlas Cement site, located in Duluth near the St. Louis River and the Morgan Park neighborhood. The current

project will focus on monitoring to measure the effects of buffering site pH and potential release of metals from site soil.

Project results will be used as a guide for the potential use of Erie Pier dredge material at other brownfield sites.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC)and NRRI coordinated to deliver 2000 cubic yards of

fine grained Erie Pier Dredge Material (EPDM) to the former Atlas Cement Plant in the fall of 2011. The sediment was

utilized for the construction of a storm water treatment pond to reduce the pH of surface water from the site. The site,

located in Duluth near the St. Louis River and the Morgan Park neighborhood, provided an opportunity to conduct an

additional benefit analysis in using EPDM to passively mitigate pH at Brownfield sites. Therefore, a supplemental project

was undertaken as a follow-up to the application of Erie Pier dredged material to the site in late 2011. The current project

will focus on monitoring to measure the effects of buffering site pH and potential release of metals from site soil.

This is a new project.

Site monitoring and several pH sampling events were conducted at multiple locations within and near the Atlas site by

NRRI in the first half of 2013. Meetings with the Corps of Engineers, the City of Duluth, and Barr Engineering also took

place during this period.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$25,500Total

37

Material Transport


To load, transport, and deliver up to 4,000 cubic yards of dredge material from the Erie Pier facility in Duluth to the Hibtac

site. Erie Pier dredge material will be used for conducting a pilot-scale test of the dredge material capacity for restoring

vegetation to a degraded upland borrow pit site at Hibbing Taconite (Hibtac). This project represents the material transport

portion of the Hibtac project (Project Number 1721).

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) and NRRI have identified a degraded mine land site

on property controlled by Hibbing Taconite Co. (Hibtac). The site, located north of Duluth on Minnesota's Mesabi Iron

Range, provides an opportunity to conduct an additional pilot-scale demonstration project beginning in the fall of 2012.

Approximately 4,000 cubic yards of fine grained sediment will be transported from a dredge material stockpile at the Erie

Pier sediment storage facility in Duluth, Minnesota, to the Hibtac site. The sediment will be used for conducting a pilot-

scale test of the dredge materialï¿½s capacity for restoring vegetation to a degraded upland borrow pit site. This project

represents the material transport portion of the Hibtac project described in the semi-annual report for Project Number 1721.

Delayed receipt of funding for transportation cost support made it necessary to push the delivery of dredge material to

spring of 2013.

In early 2013, bids were solicited from several contractors to perform the loading, hauling, and delivery of the dredge

material to the Hibtac site. A contractor was chosen. The late spring and wet site conditions delayed the start of material

delivery from Erie Pier to Hibtac. Most material was expected to be delivered after July 1, 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$100,000Total

38

Sediment for Biomass, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation


To conduct field trials of varieties of cellulosic feedstock on mineland tailings basins and other marginal lands using readily

available soil amendment materials: clean sediments dredged from Duluth-Superior Harbor amended with treated municipal

wastewater/biosolids. Objective is to conduct field-scale (>3-acres) research at one or more host taconite mines (or other

brownfields/marginal lands location). Ultimate products will be: 1) identification of the most appropriate cellulosic

feedstock species; 2) an assessment and proof-of-concept demonstration of overall waste and energy management planning

and recycling in the region so long as sediment disposal challenges and mine land reclamation needs remain; and 3) energy

development opportunity. Project findings would be applicable to other areas around MN and the Great Lakes region,

including tailings basins, gravel pits, brownfields, and other marginal lands.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Marginal and unproductive mining lands, including iron mine tailings basins and stockpiles which no longer have economic

mineral value to be recovered, have enormous potential to act as plantation sites for growth and production of cellulosic

feedstock such as hybrid poplars and switchgrass. Large-sized basins and stockpiles and their location within active mining

areas make them especially attractive targets for large-scale biomass plantation development that minimizes environmental

impact. However, the physical properties and relatively sterile nature of these sites requires adding supplemental soil-like

materials and nutrients to support plant growth.

Progress is related to site selection, materials logistics, plot layout and vegetation management, including: 1) Logistical

planning for movement of sediment from Erie Pier Containment Facility to research sites is being finalized. Sediment will

be transported, delivered and placed at two mineland research sites; one at Keetac and a second site at Hibtac were selected

and plot marked. A presentation on this research resulted in additional interest from potential cooperators; 2)Planting stock

was temporarily planted at the U MN station in Grand Rapids, to be maintained and monitored prior to planting at the two

research sites, where floristic inventories were conducted by a contractor. Additional species will be selected to optimize

plant succession and accumulation of organic matter in sediment at the sites.

Keetac and Hibtac project planning continued. Movement of material to Hibtac is planned for summer 2013. A large

opportunity with St. Louis County was identified and discussed. Other large-scale mine land recipient sites are under

consideration and will be a focus in the second half of 2013. Key will be coordinating transportation with a back-haul of

mining byproduct aggregate to minimize transportation costs.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10416-00028242100,000US Dept of Commerce 10/01/2011 09/30/2013

$100,000Total

39

Coleraine Lab Standards

Minerals, Ferrous

To establish new laboratory standard samples for regulation of standardized procedures and calibration of equipment and

instrumentation.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The previous lab standard was collected and prepared in 1986, and is commonly referred to as the Coleraine 9-barrel

standard. Several barrels of fired pellets were collected from a local taconite plant and were screened to remove fines,

resulting in nine barrels of +1/4" pellets. These pellets have served as a lab standard for almost 25 years, and we are now

down to the last 5-gallon pail. Fired pellet standards are routinely run to ensure that equipment and procedures are reliable.

Two fired pellet and one iron ore concentrate standard were collected and prepared as follows: 1) acid pellet, 2) flux pellet,

and 3) acid

concentrate. The pellets were split and blended to ensure that each barrel collected was identical and that they were

representative of each other. Each barrel of pellets was then analyzed to ensure that the sample was reliable and uniform.

Fired pellets were tested using ASTM, ISO and lab standardized procedures to establish an acceptable statistical mean and

standard deviation. This was done for each pellet sample to establish both an acid and a flux pellet standard. Essentially the

same technique and procedure were used on the iron ore concentrate. It was split, blended, mixed and analyzed using a

standardized set of screens

to ensure that it was uniform and reliable. Fired pellet samples were collected, split and analyzed. Baseline data were

recorded, and data were analyzed for full determination of statistical mean and standard deviation. The ISO test furnaces

have been calibrated and the data reporting function has been modified to accommodate the new spreadsheet format for data

reports. The fired pellet sample for fluxed pellets was found to contain too much variability to be established as a lab

standard. An additional sample will be collected, blended, representatively split and tested. ISO furnace testing for the acid

pellet sample is in progress.

This project has been expanded to improve CMRL laboratory QA/QC procedures in the analytical lab, mineral processing,

and pyrometallurgy.

Chem Lab:

1. Develop on-line run charts for major analytical procedures

Mineral Processing:

1. Develop coarse fraction sieve standard

2. Re-establish a coherent sieve set for coarse and fine fractions that match to a master sieve set

3. Develop on-line run charts for Blaine

4. Monthly Gauss checks on Davis Tubes and Lab Mag drums

6. Bond mill and lib grind mill ball counts and weights

Pyrometallurgy:

1. Establish a standardized acid and fluxed pellet sample

2. Establish practices for measuring and recording coarse pellet screen sieve sizes

3. Monthly high/low fired pellet reducibility and low temperature disintegration

4. Monthly high/low fired pellet compression

5. Establish practices for measurement and documentation of ASTM and ISO tumble drum specifications

__________________________________________________________________________


Principal Investigator(s)Richard Kiesel


$82,000Total

40

Establishing a Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) Pilot Scale Shaft Simulator at CMRL for

Reduction of Iron Ore Pellets Using MIDREX & HYL Natural Gas Based Processes

Minerals, Ferrous

To (1) Cater to the needs of U.S. and other North American based pellet producers to assess the suitability of their pellets

for Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) production, (2) Provide technical support to companies interested in setting up natural gas

based DRI plants and in selection of the process and feed stock most suitable for their purpose, and (3) Use existing electric

melting furnace facilities at the University of Minnesota`s Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory (CMRL) for smelting of

DRI products as a forward integration.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steel making continues to expand worldwide because of its capital and operating cost

advantages, flexibility, relatively low carbon emission and environmental benefits. Currently, 65% of steel produced in the

U.S. is through the electric steelmaking route, and on a worldwide basis it has increased to 30%. With the long-term

availability of low cost natural gas, and hot charging of DRI, the economics of steelmaking have become very attractive. In

North America and elsewhere in the world, a number of projects with natural gas based DRI processes are either under

implementation or in the planning stages. The most important and established DRI production processes using the natural

gas reduction route are MIDREX & HYL.

This is a new project.

In February 2013, prior to establishing a DRI simulator, it was decided to carry out a Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)

study simulating typical HYL/MIDREX gas compositions, reduction temperature, etc., to optimize these variables in respect

to the reduction rate and quality of DRI produced. Specific information would be obtained, such as off-gas composition,

volume, temperature, etc., which would prove helpful in setting up the DRI simulator and its peripherals. Tests were

conducted on Minnesota low-silica DRI grade pellets, which were produced in the Coleraine laboratory. For initial tests, a

sample of 25 pellets (65g) was used at reduction temperatures of 750, 850, and 950°C, using 10 l/min of a reducing gas at a

mixture of 70% H2 + 25% CO + 5% CO2. Realizing that the gas was being underutilized during reduction, tests were

conducted using 250g of pellets with a combination of various reducing gas compositions at the same flow rate of 10 l/min.

It was observed that the gas composition consisting of H2 65–70% + CO 20–25% would be optimum for reduction. Greater

than 95% metallization can be achieved at 950°C in a pellet, while metallization at 750°C is relatively poor (< 86%) and the

reduction is incomplete. Since this is an ongoing study, a further series of tests will be conducted using a larger sample of

1000g. Due to limited instrumentation facilities, measurement of off-gas volume and its composition water vapor generated

following reduction could not be measured properly. Arrangements are being made to upgrade these facilities.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Sarat Panigrahy

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1750-10417-20090-UMF00200,000PUF Mineral Endowment 06/01/2011 06/30/2014

$200,000Total

41

Investigate Ideas for Further Processing of Taconite Coarse Tailings at the Plant

Before Haulage and Stockpiling

Minerals, Ferrous

NRRI Duluth and Coleraine will work with each taconite facility to assess how and where coarse taconite tailings are

produced in the facility`s flow sheet, and to determine if simple physical methods can be used to efficiently, cost-effectively

recover one or more gradations from the process stream cost-effectively. Proposed work would include: 1) taconite plant

visit and flow sheet evaluation; 2) development of sample collection/recovery strategy; 3) collect sufficient sample for

physical, chemical, and mineralogical characterization; 4) suggest possible recovery methods; 5) estimate cost and benefit

of implementing recovery methods; 6) summarize results and produce a final report of investigation.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Based on its taconite aggregate investigations to date, the NRRI feels there is an excellent opportunity for generating value-

added products on a modest scale at taconite facilities that make use of the full gradation spectrum of taconite coarse

tailings. For example, plants that use spiral classifiers to separate fine and coarse tailings are already doing much of what a

commercial aggregate washing/screening plant does to recover aggregate products like sealcoat chips, which are a premium-

value aggregate product. Depending on the gradation, such products can sell for $15 to $20 per ton, FOB producer. Some

specialty friction products, when dried and bagged, can sell for considerably greater amounts, e.g., over $150 per ton.

Investigation showed that it would take considerable effort and cost to implement a system to recover size-bracketed coarse

tailings fractions at their point of generation, especially within taconite plants. An in-plant recovery system would be better

suited for designing into a new operation’s process flow-sheet prior to construction, rather than retrofitting an existing one;

space constraints and potential disruption of operations would pose challenges. Field sampling conducted by NRRI outside

of a taconite facility, however, suggests that selective recovery – e.g., at a tailings basin discharge point – might be a

simpler, more flexible, cost-effective alternative. This project also evaluated physical and mineralogical/microscopic

properties of the tailings.

Limited progress occurred in the first half of 2013 due to ongoing and competing project commitments. However, given

recent developments in the potential for use of coarse tailings for high friction surfacing (HFS) applications and growing

interest from external parties, additional friction aggregate testing and material characterization will be conducted in the

second half of 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3005-10416-0001443922,800MN Department of Natural Resources 05/01/2010 06/30/2011

$22,800Total

42

Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation - Product Development

Support

Minerals, Ferrous

NRRI to provide assistance with product development or improvement and processing design and efficiency to five

projects, averaging $20,000/investment, with project entrepreneur/small business providing in-kind and/or cash match to

expand the effort and to ensure that the entrepreneurs and small businesses are intimately involved in a hands on manner in

the initiative.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

NRRI, together with its partners in the Minnesota Mining Cluster (MMC), will search out entrepreneurs and small business

suppliers/vendors and assist them with new product development, product improvement and processing efficiencies to help

them either start new businesses or expand existing businesses, with the goal of job creation and new investment within the

cluster. NRRI has found that prospective partners have unique needs.

The existing Product Development Fund (PDF) program procedures will be utilized for this piece of funding, and an

application has been developed to meet the parameters of the Economic Development Association portion of the funding.

Preliminary discussions are being held with internal NRRI Center for Applied Research and Technology principal

investigators to discuss potential projects.

A number of projects are ongoing during this reporting period. This includes:

1) Green Heat Corporation. The objective of the project is to validate and document the performance of a novel heat

exchanger attached to a cooking grill. A 6th generation prototype unit has been fabricated and is undergoing testing.

2) Yawkey Minerals Management. The focus of the project is to facilitate the qualification, certification, and acceptance of

Mesabi friction aggregate products and byproducts produced by Yawkey Minerals Management (YMM) for use in state,

regional, and national highway projects, and for use in other value-added applications. The project team has been work to

define specifications, develop relationships with customers and complete performance testing.

3) ME Electmetal. The objective of the project is to determine ways to recover high cost zircon sand from a mix of zircon

and low cost silica sand for reuse. An airtable separation process has shown preliminary success at capturing the high value

zircon sand materials. A test unit has been installed at ME Electmetal for further assessment.

4) KonCote Products. THe objective of the project is to develop a building products coating material using byproduct

tailings from the iron industry in northern Minnesota as a replacement for silica sands from Florida. This project would

create new markets for the MN fine aggregate material and result in new production capacity. Sample materials have been

fabricated and are undergoing assessment.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


1750-10416-20090-00028250,000PUF Mineral Endowment 10/01/2011 09/30/2013

$100,001Total

43

Paired Straight Hearth Furnace Simulation

Minerals, Ferrous

To design and construct a furnace with electrical heating, capable of achieving 1600 degrees C in each of two separate

zones to accommodate a deep bed of pellets (nominal 120 mm height) and produce Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) under

conditions prescribed by the American Iron & Steel Institute (AISI).

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

CMRL will conduct a study for the AISI Paired Straight Hearth (PSH) Furnace Project to evaluate and assess the quality of

Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) pellets achieved from deep bed roasting of green agglomerates in a specifically designed furnace

to simulate the PSH process. This program is required to understand the heat transfer and kinetic characteristics for

metallization in a tall bed for the design and construction of a pilot plant for the potential commercialization of PSH

technology. The proposal is submitted in two parts: 1) design and fabrication of the DRI furnace and 2) production and

quality assessment of deep bed produced DRI pellets. Objectives of these tests are to produce DRI pellets with

characteristics more closely related to the proposed commercial furnace and to evaluate pellet volume and quality as it

transitions the bed.

Furnace design was finalized in agreement with AISI and their associated industrial partners for testing the PSH Furnace

process. The initial phase of the deep bed Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) Pelletizing Study for American Iron and Steel Institute

(AISI) Paired Straight Hearth (PSH) Furnace project is complete. This includes 10 additional tests, with green balls

prepared with a bentonite binder. The final report for the initial test work is complete and under review.

This study has now been expanded to evaluate and assess the quality of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) pellets achieved from

deep bed roasting of green agglomerates in the Linear Hearth Furnace (LHF). To simulate the PSH furnace process, CMRL

will modify the LHF refractories to accommodate the higher operating temperatures, (1500 oC). In addition, the furnace

exhaust duct will be relocated to zone 3 based on recommendation from AISI, to exhaust the furnace in a co-current flow.

The ceramic fiber refractory on the furnace car system will be modified to accommodate the deep bed of green pellets, and

the base of the sample cars will be lined with a single layer of dense, high alumina brick to simulate a castable or solid brick

refractory hearth. Hot cars will be charged with approximately 120mm depth of green balls. A series of three cars will be

fed with green feed components and cycled through the furnace at the target feed rate for each zone. The reduced pellets

produced will be analyzed for metallic iron (Feo), total iron (FeT), ferrous iron (Fe++), carbon (C) and sulfur (S)

incrementally, from the top down to the hearth to evaluate heat transfer to the bottom of the bed.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3010-10417-00019327379,288American Iron and Steel Institute 11/30/2010 12/31/2013

$379,288Total

44

Pellet Induration Modeling - Revised Pellet Drying Model

Minerals, Ferrous

To develop an improved pellet drying model for incorporation into Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) pellet induration

furnaces. The current drying model that was developed under the ArcelorMittal Straight Grate program for Iron Ore

Cooperative Research has proven difficult to converge. Our goal is to develop a computationally stable drying model, and to

complete the CFD Straight Grate Modeling effort.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

A CFD Straight Grate Model was developed by the investigators with Iron Ore Cooperative Research funds. This work was

sumamrized in a report issued to the industry in September 2011. However, the model exhibited erratic convergence at

times, requiring small time scales, leading to long solution times. This project will develop an alternative pellet drying

model based on the shrinking core concept. The shrinking core drying model is similar to the shrinking core model used for

magnetite oxidation. An initial drying rate assumes uniform evaporation until the moisture fraction drops to a critical value

determined from computer experiments validated with furnace experience. At the critical moisture content, the drying rate is

controlled through a combination of heat transfer to the pellet bed, and mass transfer resistance due to diffusion and

convection.

An alternative drying model was developed and tested, however, solution time and numerical stability were not improved. It

was concluded that small time scales are required to maintain numerical stability with respect to energy transfer associated

evaporation; 28 simulations were carried out evaluating model performance, production rate, up-draft drying tempering air,

and alternatives to improve drying zone evaporation. The model will provide a useful tool in simulation of straight grate

induration furnaces, and can be used to evaluate alternative furnace designs, green ball chemistry and process fan

performance. Future plans include validation of model performance with pot-grate tests.

The objective of this project was to evaluate the model over a range of operating conditions developed around three

secondary goals:

1.Up Draft Drying Fan Tempering Air Series – to define the relationship between tempering air and drying temperature.

2.Production Series – to evaluate model predictions over a production range spanning ± 10% deviation from the baseline.

3.Investigate alternatives with potential to increase productivity, such as ways to increase evaporation in drying zones of the

furnace.

The alternatives evaluated included:

1.Decreased Down Draft Dry Cross-Over Flow

2.Recoup Bleed Stream to Increase Down Draft Dry Temperature

These simulations demonstrated that a recoup bleed stream could be used to increase the DDD process air temperature by

50 – 100 F. However, the recoup bleed scenarios were only, marginally successful at increasing evaporation rate.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Dave Englund

Richard Davis

Richard Kiesel

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1750-10417-20090-10000176,527PUTF Mineral Endowment 07/01/2012 06/30/2014

$76,527Total

45

Recovery of Iron Values from Lean Ore Stockpiles from Past Mining Activities in the

MMC, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation

Minerals, Ferrous

To conduct research regarding recovery of iron values from lean ore stockpiles remaining from past mining activities in the

Minnesota Mining Cluster (MMC) area.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

MMC has been producing iron ore for over 100 years. Over this period, piles of “lean ore”

containing from 27% to 50% iron have been generated and stockpiled across the TAA (Taconite Assistance Area). The

Minnesota DNR has tracked the generation of these stockpiles and tonnages on public lands that will soon be made

available. In addition, significant volumes of material are also held by private interests across the TAA. This represents an

enormous underutilized iron resource that has great value under current iron ore market conditions. Potential world-wide

markets exist for this upgraded material, and the processor network existing within the MMC could be utilized to recover

this iron and market the products once the technology is fully proven.

From the time period January 1 through June 30, 2012, the Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory (CMRL) worked with a

sonic-drilling method contractor to obtain drillcore samples from a lean ore stockpile located north and west of Nashwauk,

MN. In March 2012, the drilling contractor collected drillcore samples from four different drillholes spaced throughout the

lean ore stockpile. The total depth drilled was 270 feet. During April and May 2012, core samples from the four drillholes

were characterized by visual and chemical analysis methods. In June 2012, characterization work continued on the

individual core interval samples from drillholes 3 and 4. Each core interval sample was dried and then split in half. A

sample of the minus 6-mesh from each core interval was submitted to the CMRL Chem Lab for Total Iron (Fe) analysis.

Additional work in June 2012 was performed with the 10- to 22.5-ft core interval from drillhole 3. The minus 6-mesh

sample from this core interval was used to establish operator settings for the bench scale Eriez High Intensity Magnetic

Separtor (HIMS) and for the Carpco HIMS for future core sample tests.

Besides conducting drill core sampling on lean ore stockpile reserves on the western Mesabi Iron Range, a drilling

contractor drilled a 10 million ton University owned lean iron ore stockpile on the eastern Mesabi Iron Range on the

previous LTV Steel Mining Company site in Hoyt Lakes, MN; minus 200 Mesh Davis tube tests were run on these samples,

which produced a concentrate having 56.1% Tot. Iron and silica of 15.02% SiO2. Larger samples of this ore were then

ground to 80% minus 325 Mesh and passed over 2 stages of low intensity magnetic separation (LIMS) to prepare a larger

concentrate sample. Flotation work was then completed on this magnetic separator concentrate to prepare a flotation

concentrate with lower silica. Silica concentration of this flotation concentrate was 7.86% SiO2. Further test work is

planned to lower the silica level in this flotation concentrate.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Paul Mack



$249,999Total

46

RGGS Core Metamorphism Biwabik Iron Formation

Minerals, Ferrous

To document the detailed stratigraphy of the Biwabik Iron Formation (BIF) with regard to bedding type changes in the

various iron-formation submembers, and to document the effects of metamorphism by the Duluth Complex in order to

spatially establish more up-to-date lines that separate specific metamorphic zones.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

There are very few publically-available drill cores of the Biwabik Iron Formation (BIF) from the eastern Mesabi Iron

Range. While this area has been extensively drilled by the mining companies, there are only four holes that are available to

the public. However, the core from 68 drill holes (over 20,000 feet of core drilled by United States Steel Corp.) from this

same area has recently been obtained from the RGGS Land Company in Virginia, MN. This core will be used to conduct a

detailed stratigraphic study of the BIF, as well as a study of the metamorphic effects to the BIF by the nearby Duluth

Complex.

Ten drill holes were logged. Correlation of various iron-formation submembers has been completed. Preliminary work has

established several criteria by which each of the submembers can be recognized in future core logging endeavors. A

progress report detailing these criteria has been submitted by Severson and is currently in editorial review. Major

differences in the iron-formation stratigraphy in the eastern Mesabi Iron Range include: 1. Lower Cherty member shows a

drastic thinning in an easterly direction across Siphon Fault; 2. the top of the Lower Slaty is picked with some difficulty due

to the presence of a submember called the “Mesabi Select Equivalent” unit, which may have good road aggregate potential;

and 3. several submembers associated with the Upper Cherty are better defined as a result of this investigation. In regard to

metamorphism of the iron-formation, this study has confirmed previously-established boundaries of various metamorphic

zones (Zones 1 through 4 as defined by French, 1962, and Morey et al., 1972). However, there appear to be subhorizontal

zones within Zone #4 wherein specific submembers of the iron-formation have undergone higher degrees of metamorphism

than immediately adjacent submembers.

A progress report was released in January, which is summarized aptly in the Previous Activity section by Mark Severson,

who is currently on a leave of absence. Work on the drill core, mineralogy, and petrology will be continued by John Heine

and Marsha Meinders-Patelke as time permits.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Mark Severson

Steven Hauck


$75,000Total

47

Systematic Survey & Characterization of Amphibole

Minerals, Ferrous

The objective of this project is to physically, mineralogically, and chemically characterize amphibole and phyllosilicate

minerals that may become airborne particulates during processing of potential Duluth Complex ores and associated waste

rocks. This will be accomplished by scientific evaluations utilizing a wide variety of techniques including petrography,

scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Ongoing and potential future activities involving mining Duluth Complex ore and associated waste rocks requires a need to

identify and characterize elongate particles of silicate minerals that may become airborne as fine particulates. Exposure to

elongate mineral particles of phyllosilicate and inosilicates (in particular, asbestiform amphiboles) have been historically

linked to lung disease. Late stage deuteric alteration of the mafic minerals (for example, pyroxene and olivine) of the Duluth

Complex has produced hydrous secondary amphibole and phyllosilicate minerals in the rock. At the present time, the

detailed mineralogy, mineral chemistry, and mineral morphologies of these minerals are not well defined.

Elutriation results have been received. MLA analyses continue to be evaluated. Databases have been and continue to be

updated with newly obtained data. Report writing has commenced.

Data compilation, evaluation, and interpretation continues.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck

Stephen Monson Geerts

George Hudak


$102,000Total

48

Upgrading Iron from Lean Ore Stockpiles and Tailings Basins on the Mesabi Iron

Range and Producing Value-Added Iron Products

Minerals, Ferrous

To evaluate the low-grade stockpiled hematite ore and hematite tailings available from past mining operations on the

Mesabi Iron Range, and to ascertain the ability to upgrade the iron in the ore and tailings for production of value-added iron

products from these materials.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Millions of tons of hematite low-grade ore stockpiles and coarse tailing material containing 35-40% iron are available from

iron ore plants that operated in past decades on the Mesabi Iron Range. Since these ores and tailings are already crushed and

ground to a size which can be used directly in mineral processing concentrator flowsheets, operating costs are minimal to

turn these low-grade materials into value-added hematite concentrates containing 65-66% iron and 4-5% silica. Flowsheets

need to be developed to attract corporate operators to build low-cost concentrating facilities in northeastern Minnesota to

recover these valuable iron resources.

In order to evaluate iron upgrading techniques, representative lean ore stockpile samples were taken by drilling the piles

using sonic drilling techniques. Major Drilling, a Minnesota-based drilling company, was commissioned to drill lean ore

stockpiles from a western Mesabi Iron Range location near Nashwauk, MN, and an eastern Mesabi Iron Range location near

Hoyt Lakes, MN. Drill core samples from these two locations were brought back to the Coleraine Minerals Research

Laboratory for analysis. The two Iron Range locations provide quite different ore types. The western location contained

primarily hematite ore with a smaller portion of magnetite, while the eastern location contained primarily magnetite ore.

Samples containing hematite ore are being evaluated using wet and dry high intensity magnetic separation, flotation, and

magnetic roasting techniques to upgrade the iron content. Samples containing magnetite are being evaluated using low

intensity magnetic separation and flotation to upgrade the iron content.

Drill core samples recovered through the use of ultrasonic drilling on a Western Iron Range iron ore stockpile located near

Nashwauk, MN, were analyzed as containing primarily hematite with a small amount of magnetite. A concentrator flow

sheet was thus designed by CMRL staff to upgrade this iron ore, which first utilized wet low intensity magnetic separation

(LIMS) to remove the magnetite component of the ore followed by wet high intensity magnetic separation (WHIMS) of the

LIMS tailings to recover hematite iron units to give the circuit high iron recovery. This type of concentrator flow circuit is

currently being evaluated by several Minnesota taconite operations to recover hematite iron units currently being lost to

tailings in their low intensity magnetic separator circuits.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Paul Mack


$125,000Total

49

Utility of Taconite Materials as Road Patch for Highway Construction

Minerals, Ferrous

To confirm the utility of using inorganically bound taconite aggregate and concentrate as highway road patching and

construction materials.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Preliminary test work using a proprietary binder formulation has demonstrated the utility of using taconite mining products

as a highway patching material. Actual field demonstrations show that the material, if properly formulated, can act as a semi-

permanent patch.

The modified formulation developed by NRRI in the first half of 2012 was adopted by TCC Materials, and was produced by

TCC in pallet-load quantities for more detailed field evaluations by potential customers. This new formulation was tested

during a late October field trial in Duluth, done in conjunction with a new MnDOT-supported project. Further formula

modification is planned for 2013.

No new work was performed in the first half of 2013. The modified formulation developed by NRRI in 2012 continued to

be evaluated by TCC Materials in 2013. It was also used in a March 1, 2013, field installation for the new MnDOT project.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck

Donald Fosnacht


1831-187-2680-0010,000Minnesota Power 02/08/2005 06/30/2014

$60,000Total

50

By-Product Aggregate, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation


To focus on implementation projects that introduce aggregate materials to targeted markets in project-sized quantities, value-

added commercialization opportunities, and promising avenues of taconite-based applied research. Program includes: •

Accelerated aggregate material qualification/certification program; • Development & deployment of mix and pavement

designs using high quality taconite aggregate materials in their upper wear courses; • Production of value-added products

from coarse taconite tailings, such as high friction bridge deck and airport runway surfacing aggregates; • Further

development and implementation of innovative concepts, products and technologies such as: pothole/paving compounds and

pursuing microwave-based technologies for all-season pothole and pavement repair; energy-absorbing materials for possible

defense applications; UV, solar, and geothermal heating and energy storage. This project area is highly dependent on private

sector and public sector interactions, negotiations, and timetables. Collaboration with private and public sectors at local,

state, and national levels will be a key for implementing these activities and leveraging project resources.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Construction materials and value-added aggregate by-products from mining have potential for economic development and

immediate job creation in Northeastern MN. Expanding the use of these byproduct materials is one leg of a three-legged

strategy for long-term economic stability and competitiveness of iron ore mining and steel-making industries. This strategy

also contributes to sustainability in that it maximizes resource utilization while contributing to reduced energy consumption.

Cement manufacturing lab testing showed taconite tailings would work as raw material replacement for cement makers on

the Great Lakes. Discussions continue regarding next steps and potential scale-up of testing. Frac sand potential preliminary

testing has been performed. In other product development, interest was shown in two different value-added products that

require silica. 2nd Half 2012 Highlights: 1)Friction aggregate plant operational 2)Continued interest in cement making

3)Texas interest in aggregate 4)Repair technology field testing 5)Potential paving project locations ID'd 6)Product

development

1st Half 2013 Highlights:

1)Friction aggregate plant operational. Material certification testing underway for potential 2013 projects. 2)Interest in the

use of by-products for cement making continued. Working to coordinate a back-haul to allow for a bulk test shipment. 3)TX

interest in Mesabi aggregate was discussed with a northern MN producer. 4)Repair technology (microwave and rapid repair)

field testing continued in March of 2013. 5)Paving project identified in NW MN. Use of Mesabi aggregate for a small

project planned for July.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$150,000Total

51

Comparative Performance Study of Chip Seal & Bonded Wear Course Systems Applied

to Bridge Decks and Approaches


To provide a comparative evaluation of the performance of several polymeric chip seal (PCS) and ultra-thin bonded wear

courses (UTBWC) applied to bridge decks, including sealing and corrosion protection attributes afforded to the deck, as

well as improved safety due to increased friction and retention of deicing chemicals as provided by the overlayer. Yearly

reports and a final report summarizing this comparative evaluation will be the products of this work.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Recent development and commercialization of various polymeric chip seal and ultra-thin bonded wear courses poses several

key questions with respect to the widespread application of these to bridge deck surfaces. Choices must be made among

those available in the absence of data allowing for sound comparative assessment. Primary concerns focus on the following

performance characteristics: 1) Materials quality and performance quality of materials in a given system, including both the

sealing material (e.g. polymer in a PCS system) and the aggregate component; 2) Skid resistance afforded by the overlay

system, evaluated by friction measurement over the first few years of service life; 3) Improved safety provided by higher

friction as manifested in accident reduction at the application sites; 4) Effectiveness of the sealing component to reduce or

eliminate chloride ingress into the deck as a consequence of the use of deicing chemicals; 5) Examination of issues relating

to moisture trapping at the seal coat/concrete interface which may cause premature degradation of the concrete, and; 6)

Cost/Benefit considerations as related to the above.

Project aggregate samples were provided to Prof. Dave in August. A late September meeting took place at MnDOT's

Maplewood laboratory, for project discussions and to observe demonstration of a dynamic friction tester available to UMD.

Plans were developed to conduct aggregate friction testing at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at

Auburn University, AL, to take place in 2013. Aggregate characterization work is also planned for 2013.

Aggregate testing and MnDOT skid testing results were reviewed with Prof. Eshan Dave. The results for taconite friction

aggregate look favorable. Additional samples will be submitted for aggregate testing and characterization in the second half

of 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$31,790Total

52

Evaluate and Develop Innovative Pavement Repair and Patch


The project represents one part of a broader effort by MnDOT to evaluate current practices, materials, and policies for

pavement patching and repair, for both asphalt and concrete pavements, including evaluation of pothole patching practices,

basic pavement maintenance, utility repair methods, and rapid repair materials. The Natural Resources Research Institute

(NRRI) is focusing on two alternative approaches (both taconite-related). The first approach is a prototype

pavement/pothole repair compound formulation developed by NRRI that is fast-setting, taconite-based, and contains no

petroleum or portland cement. The second approach involves the use of a vehicle-based microwave heating system for in-

place pothole/pavement repair/recycling, a system for which taconite materials can enhance microwave heating efficiency.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The project represents one part of a broader effort by MnDOT to evaluate current practices, materials, and policies for

pavement patching and repair, for both asphalt and concrete pavements, including evaluation of pothole patching practices,

basic pavement maintenance, utility repair methods, and rapid repair materials. In support of this effort – and with the

support and cooperation of MnDOT and MnDOT District 1 – NRRI is conducting additional refinement, field testing, and

performance monitoring of two taconite-related approaches to pavement repair which rely on mixes/techniques that contain

(or are enhanced by) taconite mining byproducts and co-products.

None to report. This is a new project.

Project Tasks 1 and 2 have been completed. Task 1 activities included the following: Updated and expanded literature

review; material acquisition; formula/equipment optimization/laboratory testing; preliminary field testing. Task 2 entailed

continued formula/equipment optimization and laboratory testing; field- and demonstration-ready deployment testing;

comparative testing of multiple repair materials and methods/heating products, including microwave versus Heat Wurx; data

compilation and analysis; post-repair performance monitoring; and presentation (including materials) at one or more venues

such as the TERRA Pavement Conference and/or maintenance expo(s). Task 2 – more so than Task 1 – focused on the field

demonstrations that took place in the fall of 2012 and March of 2013, particularly as it related to follow-up performance

monitoring and comparison/documentation of repair materials and methods/equipment.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$40,000Total

53

Geological Resources of Ox Tac Ore in the Vicinity of the Canisteo, Hunner, King,

Jennison, Buckeye, Jessie 1 and 2, and West Hill Mines: A Continuing Evaluation of

Ox Tac Resources in Itasca County


To: (1) produce a geological resource estimate of the oxidized taconite ore in the area of the Canisteo, Danube, Morrison,

Walker, Fletcher, Hunner, King, Jennison, and Buckeye mines (Sections 25, 36, R25W, T56N and Sections 20, 29, 30, 31,

R24W, T56N) in Itasca County, and (2) make the data available in a Geographical Information System (GIS) format that

can be used by industry, Itasca County, the State of Minnesota, and local towns and townships for use in future land-use

planning.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

A current Permanent University Trust Fund (PUTF) project is compiling data on the Judd, Sally, Plummer, Holman-Cliffs,

Homestead, Diamond, and Arcturus mine areas located northeast of this proposed study area. Approximately 20 to 30 years

ago, there was a great deal of activity aimed at determining the occurrence and quantity of oxidized taconite in both

Minnesota and Michigan, as well as evaluating alternative schemes for its exploitation. Currently, there is no mining on the

western end of the Mesabi Iron Range in Itasca County, but there has been and are many other uses, i.e., boating, water

resource management, other construction, that will directly affect the availability of these oxidized ores in the future. These

oxidized taconite, or non-magnetic ore reserves, could become economically beneficial in the future with new mineral

processing and mining techniques and with lower stripping and blasting costs. The study will provide these data in a GIS

format to local, county, and state agencies that are involved with land-use issues and will allow them to become more aware

of the mining potential of the area. Thus, it is hoped that these various entities will use the data to make informed land-use

decisions for the western Mesabi Iron Range.

No work was done on this project due to commitments to complete other projects.

No work was done on this project due to commitments to complete other projects.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________



$60,000Total

54

Modification of the NRRI Pellet Fines Removal System to Provide More Durable Wear

Parts to Improve the Physical Availability of the Unit to Minnesota Taconite Operations


To provide improved wear parts for the NRRI pellet fines removal system (FRS) to allow the belt to be operated at feed

rates of 300-350 tons per hour, 24 hrs per day, to remove pellet fines and chips without needing to replace chevron lifter

bars on the belt surface for at least 3-month intervals.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

An NRRI pellet fines removal system was previously developed at CMRL, which efficiently removed taconite pellet fines

and pellet chips without using vibrating screen components. The pilot scale apparatus was scaled up into a full-scale

operating unit, which was mounted on a trailer that could be transported to Minnesota taconite operations or blast furnace

steel plant operations for full-scale testing. Tests were initially run at a Minnesota taconite operation, and results showed

excellent separation of pellet fines and chips from whole pellets. Chevron-shaped rubber lifters fastened to the flat belt

surface were key to the separation process. However, they exhibited excessive abrasive wear, requiring replacement after

every 25,000 tons of pellet processing. Tests were run on a variety of high wear resistant materials, which showed that

chevrons made of AR400 steel gave the least abrasive wear from the pellets. This is a continuation of previous work

reported under Project Tracking #1309, PUTF Fines Removal System.

A number of modifications have been completed on the NRRI Pellet Fines Removal System. Wear resistant AR400 steel

chevrons have been installed across the entire width and length of the 4-foot wide by 26-foot long Flexowall conveyor. Four

urethane-coated belt-carrying wheels have also been installed to support the return belt under the system. A cylindrical

rubber chute has been installed at the top of the conveyor to contain the fines being removed from the pellets and to deliver

them to the ground. Additionally, a small conveyor belt is being installed under the belt to carry away fines discharged off

the return belt. The NRRI FRS will be tested at a Minnesota taconite operation to evaluate design modifications at a pellet

feed rate of 350 tons per hour in the fall of 2012.

The newly modified NRRI fines removal system was tested at a Minnesota taconite operation for two days, operating 8

hours per day, to evaluate the system. Test results indicated that the modified system having the AR400 chevrons produced

only a screened pellet quality of 98.4% A.T. at a pellet feed rate of 246tph on the first day and only a screened pellet quality

of 96.1% A.T. at a pellet feed rate of 218 tph on the second day. These results are not sufficient to classify this technology

as a replacement for vibrating screen technology used to produce pellet screening of at least 99.5% A.T. at feed rates of 350

tph. Further analysis is being conducted to see if the NRRI FRS is capable of further modifications to produce the required

product quality at the required feed rates.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Richard Kiesel


$52,335Total

55

Product Development Project for KonCote Products


The objective of this project is to develop a durable, environmentally friendly, and high recycled-content KonCote Regular

Mix product (an alternative to traditional stucco coatings) utilizing Minnesota-sourced taconite tailings to replace Florida-

sourced silica sand.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The overall goal of this project is to develop a durable, environmentally friendly, and high recycled-content KonCote

Regular Mix product utilizing Minnesota-sourced taconite tailings to replace Florida-sourced silica sand. This new product

would be manufactured in Minnesota (currently, this product is manufactured in Florida). Compared with the production of

current KonCote Regular Mix, the new product should have lower cost, will have lower environmental impacts, and will

offer greater profits to KonCote Products, Inc. The project goal will be met with the following objectives:

1. Prepare new KonCote Regular Mix samples by combining Portland cement and selected Minnesota-sourced taconite

tailing gradations and mass loadings.

2. Prepare KonCote mixtures and demonstrate bonding characteristics by applying to several horizontal and vertical

substrates.

3. Test the physical and mechanical performance of the new KonCote mixtures. Performance tests may include, but are not

limited to, set time, adhesion strength, compressive strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and abrasion. The

performance of the new KonCote mixtures will be compared to the current KonCote mixtures (utilizing Florida silica sand).

4. Test the ability of the new KonCote mixtures to accept liquid pigment and dry oxide colorants.

5. Identify potential manufacturing strategies for producing the new product(s) in northern Minnesota.

6. Prepare a final report.


The particle size gradation of the silica sand currently in the KonCote Dry Mix product was determined by conducting a

thorough sieve analysis.

Then, several samples of taconite tailings were collected from NRRI's Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory. The

samples were sieved to several size gradations to approximately match the gradations found in the KonCote Dry Mix silica

sand.

It was also discovered that "river rock" (coarser rock material) is gaining more market share as a surfacing aggregate (when

bonded with epoxy). Thus, it was decided to expand the current project to assess opportunities for using coarse taconite

tailings as a river rock substitute in epoxy-bonded surfacing products.

__________________________________________________________________________


Principal Investigator(s)Matthew Aro



$18,941Total

56

Copper-Nickel-PGE Mineralization Potential of the Cloquet Lake Intrusion in Northeast

Minnesota


To conduct a first pass reconnaissance sampling campaign to evaluate potential of the Cloquet Lake Intrusion to host basal

Cu-Ni-PGE deposits and/or stratiform PGE reef deposits related to a sulfide saturation event.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Cloquet Lake Intrusion, comprising part of the Beaver Bay Complex, represents one of the largest Keweenawan-age

intrusions in northeast Minnesota. It is 2-3 times larger than either the Partridge River or South Kawishiwi intrusions, which

contain several Cu-Ni-PGE deposits. However, exploration for base and precious metals in Cloquet Lake Intrusion has been

limited to three drill holes. All three intersected massive sulfide at the basal contact, but PGE, Cu, and Ni values were

generally low; further exploration efforts were discontinued. Despite the lack of encouraging results, Cloquet Lake Intrusion

should still be explored for the following reasons: (1) it is situated near a buried crustal ridge of older country rock that may

have served as a local sulfur source for basal disseminated Cu-Ni-PGE sulfide deposits; (2) massive sulfide in the 3 holes

may be related to proximity to a vent wherein additional massive sulfide with higher Cu-Ni-PGE values (related to

fractional crystallization) may be present and could be located more distally to the vent; and (3) the layered nature of this

intrusion suggests that it may be possible that one or more stratiform PGE reefs (associated with low sulfide content) lies

hidden in upper portions of the intrusion. This project would be aimed at collecting more samples of weak to moderately-

mineralized rock in order to gain better appreciation of the mineralized potential of Cloquet Lake Intrusion.

All polished thin sections (28) collected from Cloquet Lake intrusion have been described in detail. This review indicates

that the vast majority of the rocks are either poikilitic olivine gabbro, ophitic gabbro, and gabbro with lesser amounts of

diorite. Overall lack of troctolitic rocks in Cloquet Lake intrusion is anomalous with respect to the nearby Partridge River

and South Kawishiwi intrusions, known to host several Cu-Ni deposits.

The presence of dominantly gabbroic rocks suggests that a sulfide-poor, PGE-enriched reef (similar to a PGE-enriched reef

in adjacent Sonju Lake intrusion) may occur higher in the stratigraphy of the intrusion. Overall, economic potential of

Cloquet Lake intrusion remains low, based mainly on limited rock outcrops found and sampled in lower portions of the

intrusion.Data suggest that any Cu-Ni-PGE targets within the interior of the intrusion will be based solely on either

geophysical criteria or on glacial till sampling results. No further work has been done on this project as the PI Mark

Severson is on a leave of absence.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$15,000Total

57

Evaluation of Tailings Generated by CU-NI Ore Processing


To provide baseline data by characterizing Duluth Complex Cu-Ni ore tailings and assessing potential for additional mineral

recovery or value-added beneficial uses. Following physical, chemical, and mineralogical tests, potential end-use options

will be identified and prioritized for further bench/pilot scale testing. Short-term goals: thoroughly characterize the tailings,

determine viability of extracting additional value from them, e.g., oxide fraction, and identify realistic end uses. Long-term

goals: provide emerging non-ferrous mining industry and/or entrepreneurs with practical alternatives that are

environmentally sound to pursue, technologically simple to implement, and economically beneficial to practice.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Cu-Ni ore from Duluth Complex will generate more than 30 tons of tailings per ton of bulk sulfide concentrate produced.

This project will provide baseline data by characterizing Duluth Complex Cu-Ni ore tailings and assessing potential for

additional mineral recovery and value-added benefits. Following physical, chemical, and mineralogical tests, potential end-

use options will be identified and prioritized for further bench or pilot scale evaluation. Short-term goals: thoroughly

characterize tailings, determine viability of extracting additional value from them, e.g., the oxide fraction, and identify

realistic end uses. Long-term goals: provide emerging non-ferrous mining industry and/or entrepreneurs with practical

alternatives that are environmentally sound to pursue, technologically simple to implement, and economically beneficial to

practice. Short-term and long-term benefits to the State of Minnesota include reducing tailings disposal impacts, maximizing

resource use, and generating additional revenue streams.

Summaries of wet hi-intensity magnetic separation (WHIMS) and mineralogical analyses follow: WHIMS showed

separation is not sufficient to recommend WHIMS as a method to concentrate olivine from copper-nickel flotation tailings.

Six samples of Duluth Complex tailings were examined and have similar bulk mineralogy, consisting of plagioclase

feldspar, olivine, pyroxene and sheet silicates. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed additional oxide and sulfide

mineral phases. Final report is in preparation.

None to report. Current and competing project commitments again delayed completion of the final report. However, some

additional project work may be pursued in the second half of 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck



$30,000Total

58

Further Evaluation of Diamond Base Metal and Precious Mineral Potential of

Minnesota Using Various Glacial Till Sampling and Analytical Methods


To: (1) compile all pertinent Minnesota geological and geophysical information that are relevant to the formation of

diamond pipes; (2) conduct additional processing and mineral analyses on some of the 120 previously collected glacial till

samples from the Vermilion District for mineral potential; and (3) conduct a down-ice glacial till demonstration study in the

International Falls area using the methods of Larson and other recognized glacial till sampling methodologies for identifying

kimberlite and base and precious mineral indicator minerals.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

In Canada, sampling glacial till has been successfully used to locate diamond pipes and base metal mineralization. Very

limited similar surveys have been conducted in Minnesota, but there has not been a systematic glacial till sampling survey

conducted in northern Minnesota.

To date, the data indicate a large diffuse train of total gold grains strongest in northern and central Minnesota, decreasing to

the south. When viewed in conjunction with the pristine and modified gold data, both of which are associated with materials

closer to the origin of the gold, we see a more defined pattern in north-central and east-central Minnesota. Silver has a

pattern similar to the total gold grains, which makes it difficult to use these indicators for locating source areas. Both

pristine and modified gold grains seem to be more useful for that purpose. The 63-micron fraction geochemistry has a

number of anomalies, which are associated with known mineral occurrences. Copper, nickel, palladium, and, to a lesser

extent cobalt, chromium and gallium, anomalies are associated with areas of known Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS)

and Duluth Complex mineralization. Zinc shows a stronger affinity for the VMS terranes, while titanium is more closely

associated with the Duluth Complex. There is a moderate manganese anomaly associated with the manganese occurrences in

the Emily District of the Cuyuna Range. Work is progressing on the final report.

No further work has been done on this project due to work on other projects.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)John Heine

Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1663-187-6586-0074,700MN Department of Natural Resources 08/10/2006 06/30/2008


$169,700Total

59

Non-Ferrous Hydromet, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation


To recover non-ferrous and precious metal resources from Minnesota Mining Cluster (MMC) mineral deposits using

hydrometallurgical processing methods, which avoid the use of high cost autoclave reactor vessels. The conditions for high

recovery of metals will be established, and the costs for implementation will be estimated based on the data produced.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Base and precious metal ore mineral deposits in Minnesota require beneficiation to produce a concentrate for further

refinement into metals. This project will explore mineral processing routes to make these concentrates, and alternative

hydrometallurgical routes for refinement of the concentrates into metals. Conditions for atmospheric pressure oxidation and

leaching will be explored, along with conditions for copper solvent extraction, precious metals leaching, precious metal

solvent extraction, iron precipitation from copper raffinates, and nickel and cobalt precipitation.

Activity this period includes setting up a service agreement with Process Research Ortech to conduct hydrometallurgical

processing of non-ferrous concentrates produced at the Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory (CMRL), preparation of a

bulk head sample from a Minnesota copper-nickel bulk sample, investigation of required grinding to achieve liberation,

rougher flotation testing to evaluate alternative collectors and processing conditions, and setup of a novel column flotation

apparatus.

Approximately 100 kg of Minnesota copper/nickel ore has been run through a ball mill with a target of 80% passing 150

mesh for the ball mill discharge and greater than 91% passing 150 mesh on the ball mill screen undersize. Two runs were

conducted to determine the throughput and collector dosing rate, along with gathering more sample for bench testing. The

material gathered for analysis was also bench tested on the Denver flot machine at Coleraine. These tests were to confirm

previous bench scale tests as well as ensure the pilot scale flotation will be high enough grade to send to Process Research

Ortech (PRO).

Rougher flotation tests with the mini pilot plant were also completed. Five separate rougher flotation runs were completed

and the bulk concentrate sample was sent to PRO. Composite copper and nickel grade was approximately 9.6% and 1.1%,

respectively. Process Research Ortech will start testing phase upon receipt of required testing paperwork. All paperwork

has been submitted to the University of Minnesota and US Economic Development Agency for approval.

While awaiting confirmation on the PRO contract from the University of Minnesota and US Economic Development

Agency, a novel column flotation technology proposed by Ed Klunder has been investigated. Initial testing shows promise,

but has had lower recovery than expected. Modifications to the bench column flot system will begin in September, 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Matthew Mlinar



$275,001Total

60

Origin and Distribution of Chromium Mineralization in the Duluth Complex and Related

Keweenawan Intrusives in Minnesota, and Its Relationship to PGE Mineralization


To expand our knowledge of Cr-mineralization and its potential relationship to PGE mineralization by: (1) using existing

geochemistry data and collecting Cr-bearing samples for polished thin section analysis; (2) identifying other unassayed drill

core that may contain chromium mineralization, analyzing the drill core, and collecting samples for polished thin sections;

(3) supporting one Ph.D. thesis on the Birch Lake area that will investigate the PGE-Cr mineralization and relationships to

oxide mineralization; (4) conducting quantitative microprobe analyses to determine the various chromium-related minerals;

and (5) evaluating and further analysis of one chromium occurrence identified in a drill hole outside of the Duluth Complex.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Chromium (Cr) mineralization associated with PGEs in the Duluth Complex was first recognized by Sabelin and Iwasaki

(1985, 1986) in Du-15 in the Birch Lake area. The presence of chromium spinels was noted earlier by Weiblen and Morey

(1976) at the Spruce Road deposit. Severson (1995) identified chromium and platinum mineralization in drill hole SL-19

northeast of the Water Hen deposit. Severson (1991) identified Cr-rich spinels in the Local Boy ore zone of the Babbitt

deposit. Hauck et al. (in prep.) have identified a variety of Cr-rich spinel in the Birch Lake area, not all of which are directly

associated with PGE mineralization. In addition, Heine et al. (1998) reported 1.64% Cr2O3 in saprolite in a drill hole

drilled into a Keweenawan ultramafic body in Stearns County.

Based upon discussions with Dr. James Miller, UMD Geology Department, a graduate student will use the data collected to

date, and complete the study as a part of a M.S. thesis.

Graduate student has not yet been selected by Dr. Miller. No work has been done.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$76,000Total

61

Precambrian Research Center


To provide training and support to the next generation of geoscientists in modern methods of geological mapping and

mapmaking. This training will focus on the unique attributes of mapping the ancient Precambrian rocks of the southern

Canadian Shield. The Canadian Shield and similar terranes on every continent are host to many of the world`s premier ore

deposits.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Precambrian Research Center (PRC) was created at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD)in 2006 to satisfy an

urgent, long-term demand for and critically low supply of geoscientists skilled in field mapping. The PRC seeks to reverse

the -decades-long decline in the teaching of geologic mapping skills in U.S. colleges and to provide advanced training to

professional geologists.

FIELD CAMP: Planning and promotion was conducted for the 6th annual Precambrian field camp to be held July 8-Aug.

17; by early February, 24 students from 18 different schools had registered for the camp.

WORKSHOPS: Planning and promotion was conducted for a Professional Workshop to be held Oct. 1-3 in the Twin Cities

on the topic of Silica Sand Resources in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The workshop is being co-organized with the Twin

Cities SME subsection.

STUDENT SUPPORT: Three UMD graduate students, Ben Brooker, Matt Chaffee, and Chris Gosniack were awarded with

PRC graduate research assistantships during the Spring 2012 semester.

OUTREACH: The PRC played a major organizational role in putting on the 15th annual Minnesota Minerals Education

Workshop held June 19-21 at Winona State University. The workshop was attended by a record 96 K-12 earth science

teachers from across the state.

FUNDRAISING: Membership donations for the first half of 2012 lagged a bit from the record pace of 2011, but we hope to

pick up the pace to exceed our goal of $100,000 for the year.

BOARD OF ADVISORS MEETING: The annual Precambrian Research Center Board of Advisors Meeting took place on

March 4, 2013 in Toronto.

FIELD CAMP: Planning and promotion was conducted for the 7th annual Precambrian field camp to be held July 7-Aug.

16. Twenty-two students from 16 colleges across the United States are enrolled in the field camp.

WORKSHOPS: Planning and promotion was conducted for a Professional Workshop to be held Oct. 6-13 on the topic of

“Copper, Nickel, and Platinum Group Element Deposits of the Lake Superior Region”. The workshop is co-sponsored by

the Society of Economic Geologists and nine contributing partners from industry.

STUDENT SUPPORT: UMD graduate students Aubrey Lee and Craig Caton were awarded PRC graduate research

assistantships during the Spring 2013 semester.

OUTREACH: The PRC played a major organizational role in putting on the 16th annual Minnesota Minerals Education

Workshop held June 18-20 at Hibbing Community College. The workshop was attended by a 76 K-12 earth science teachers

from across the state.

FUNDRAISING: Membership donations for the first half of 2013 have totaled $48,000.

__________________________________________________________________________


Principal Investigator(s)Donald Fosnacht

Jim Miller

Dean Peterson

George Hudak


$150,000Total

62

Rare Earth Potential, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation


The purpose of this project is to conduct a multi-disciplinary geological and geochemical assessment of a variety of rock

types in Minnesota for potentially economic rare earth elements (REE) mineral deposits.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

China controls upward of 95% of the world production of rare earth elements. Recently, they have curtailed exports of these

elements, which are considered to be important critical and strategic minerals to the U.S. Based upon the reduction in

Chinese exports, there has been increased exploration worldwide for rare earth elements. Minnesota has favorable geology

that may contain rare earth element mineralization.

During the last six months, we collected an additional 132 granitic rock samples from outcrops and drill cores. These

samples were processed for: 1) potassium, thorium, and uranium radionuclides (120)analysis; 2) for whole rock trace

elements and rare earth elements chemistry, which will be sent out next period (1-25-150+ samples); and 3)for polished thin

sections (200 samples), which will be used to select the chemistry samples. Samples will be sent out for analyses in the

spring. All of these samples have been input into a database that contains sample locations, sample dates, lithology, and

outcrop descriptions for the outcrops. Also, for all the samples, there is a list of photos, scintillometer data, and related lab

data (weights of samples, whether we could make thin sections , etc.) for all the samples we processed. These data can also

be displayed in GIS format.

Work during the last six months concentrated on preparing samples for geochemical analyses and getting permission from

EDA to spend the funds for the analyses. One hundred seventy-three rock samples were sent out with two internal duplicates

and eight certified reference standards to check the accuracy and precision of the analyses. In addition to the unknown

certified standards and internal duplicates, NRRI requested reporting of all the analytical laboratories internal duplicates,

blanks, and certified reference standards as a further check on the quality of the analyses. Additional research went into

identifying rare earth minerals previously mentioned in Minnesota's geological literature. To date, eight rare earth mineral

species or mineral phases have been identified in the literature. These rare earth minerals occur in thirty Minnesota counties.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________



$100,000Total

63

TiO2 Hydromet, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation


To recover titanium oxide (TiO2) from iron titanates using hydrometallurgical processing methods to produce high quality

titanium-bearing products for metals and pigment production. The process will be tested under laboratory and simulated

pilot conditions. Necessary processing conditions for potential commercialization by future mine operators will be defined,

and product quality of both titanium and iron-bearing products will be quantified.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Pigment-grade titanium dioxide (TiO2), used in many energy-saving products, is predominately produced from titanium-

rich slag imported from Canada. Conversion of slag to TiO2 is environmentally challenging due to high energy use and deep

well injection of the iron chloride byproduct. The project objective is demonstration of an alternative, low-energy,

environmentally-friendly combined mineral processing and hydrometallurgical process to generate TiO2 and high-value

byproducts from Minnesota titanium ore (ilmenite). The outcome of the project will be a credible demonstration of product

quality and process capability providing a path to reduce U.S. dependency on foreign sources of titanium dioxide, increase

energy efficiency of the TiO2 production process, reduce environmental burden, allow development of U.S.-owned mineral

resources, and provide high quality U.S. employment opportunities.

Approximately 150 to 200 tons of 6-inch size Minnesota ilmenite ore was made available for the project. The coarse +5-

inch ore was scalped off by grizzly and saved. The minus 5-inch size ore was crushed to pass 3/4-inch size. Approximately

10 lton of the minus 3/4-inch ore was placed and saved in 30 each 55-gal. drums for use as feed to mineral processing.

Approximately 150 of minus 3/4 inch kilograms of Minnesota ilmenite material was prepared by use of high pressure

grinding rolls to 100% passing 20 mesh. The material was then subjected to titanium concentration testing. Alternative

concentrating technologies that were investigated included:

*Low intensity magnetic separation

*Dry belt high intensity magnetic separation

*Dry induced roll high intensity magnetic separation

*High tension (electrostatic) separation

The final flowsheet consisted of high pressure grinding, low intensity magnetic separation, and high tension (electrostatic)

separation. The bulk of the required 20 kg of concentrate for Process Research Ortech (PRO) has been created on the high

tension (electrostatic) unit. Concentrate grade was approximately 41% TiO2 and 29% Fe. Additional scavenging circuits

are currently being tested via high tension (electrostatic) and dry high intensity separation. The final composite concentrate

will be assayed and sent to PRO once the project scope, budget, and timeline are received from PRO.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Matthew Mlinar

Paul Mack



$274,999Total

64

Northeast Minnesota White Cedar Plant Community Restoration Project

Peat, Horticultural

To reverse decline of northern white cedar wetland plant communities in Minnesota. The project will achieve its goals by

evaluating and prioritizing white cedar stands for restoration and preservation and through establishment of demonstration

restoration and preservation projects. Critical wildlife habitat and winter thermal cover will be restored and preserved for

white tailed deer, black bear, fisher, marten, and many songbirds in northeastern and north central Minnesota. The second

goal of the project will be to improve the quantity and quality of white cedar plant communities in northeast and north

central Minnesota. The project will accomplish this by development of a training program for local government resource

managers regarding:

• Restoration techniques for white cedar plant communities regarding site preparation and revegetation techniques and •

Protecting white cedar from damage by poorly designed wetland crossings for roads and trails.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) wetland plant communities have been declining in Minnesota for decades.

Currently white cedar regeneration success is extremely rare in Minnesota due to seedling damage from deer, snow shoe

hare and rodents and unsuitable seedbed conditions. Many mature white cedar stands have been lost due to high water levels

caused by poorly designed road crossings in wetlands.

A total of seven (7) white cedar restoration demonstration sites were selected in Beltrami, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis

Counties in the summer and fall of 2012. Sites were selected with help from NRRI GIS staff. Various treatments will be

established at the sites in the spring of 2013.

All seven white cedar demonstration sites with a variety of treatments including seeding cedar, planting white cedar

seedlings, installing mesh tree protectors to protect seedlings from deer and rabbit depredation, site thinning, water level

controls, and co-planting cedar with tamarack and black spruce were established this spring.

A field trip titled “Peatland Restoration: Cedar Swamps and Bogs” was hosted by NRRI and Michigan Tech staff on

Sunday, June 2, as part of the Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting held in Duluth, June 2-6, 2013. NRRI GIS staff

assisted in identifying additional Minnesota white cedar sites to monitor this fall.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Kurt Johnson

Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3005-10415-0002782644,988MN Board of Water and Soil Resources 04/04/2012 06/30/2014

$44,988Total

65

Peat Expansion Premier Horticulture, Inc.

Peat, Horticultural

To locate, assess, and secure a suitable horticultural peat resource for Premier Horticulture, Inc., to allow expansion of their

Peatrex operation, and to initiate the environmental review and permitting process.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Premier Horticulture, Inc., contacted NRRI for assistance in expanding their Peatrex operation located west of Cromwell,

Minnesota. It is estimated that their current peat resource (approximately 240 acres) will be depleted in the next 5 to 10

years. Also, their packaging facilities are presently operating under capacity and could readily handle additional peat from

another resource, making the operation more cost-effective and profitable. An expansion would not only maintain present

employment at Peatrex, but would also result in 15 additional jobs at the processing plant and harvesting site.

Supplementary employment would also occur in spin-off industries such as trucking. NRRI will assist Premier Horticulture,

Inc., by: (1) conducting a detailed assessment of potential peat resources in proximity to the Peatrex operation, (2)

identifying financial assistance and other incentives available for peatland development from State, County, and local

agencies, and (3) assisting in the purchase or lease of the property, and beginning the environmental review and permitting

process required by Federal and State regulatory agencies prior to peat development.

NRRI staff have continued work on the proposed Wright Bog horticultural peat operation, including creating GIS maps of

the site and mining layout, determining discharge flows, designing sedimentation basins, organizing all information

previously collected, and filling out the required State and Federal regulatory applications. Work on the permits will be

ongoing throughout the coming months. An amendment to the Premier Services Agreement was approved in October 2012

extending the project until December 31, 2014.

Extensive progress was made on the Minnesota Local/State/Federal Application Forms for Water/Wetland Projects required

for the proposed Wright Bog project. After final review by Premier, the application will be sent to the appropriate agencies

early next quarter.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1673-187-6441-0099,982Minnesota Technology, Inc 07/01/1999 06/30/2004

1196-187-2428-00 10/25/2001 06/30/2014

$99,982Total

66

Validation of Wetland Mitigation In Abandoned Borrow Areas - Phase II

Peat, Horticultural

To develop cost effective methods for creating functional mitigation wetlands in abandoned borrow areas that meet

regulatory permit requirements and are an integral part of road construction projects.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Wetland impacts are often an inevitable consequence of road construction requiring compensatory mitigation. Northeast

Minnesota still retains more than 80 percent of its pre-European settlement wetland acreage presenting very few

opportunities for traditional mitigation such as wetland restoration. Abandoned borrow areas that have been excavated for

road construction materials are one of the few remaining areas that can serve as wetland mitigation sites within the impacted

watersheds. In a previous project "Wetland Mitigation in Abandoned Gravel Pits" a demonstration site was established to

evaluate techniques for creating fresh meadow, shrub swamp, wooded swamp, and bog wetlands in abandoned gravel pits.

Preliminary results are encouraging, but continued monitoring is needed to determine long-term success. This project would

continue monitoring for the existing demonstration site wetlands for an additional three years. The effect of established

treatments such as donor soil and seed mixes on native plant cover, species richness and diversity will be the primary focus,

with special attention to monitoring and control of invasive plant species. Additional vegetation monitoring will also be

conducted on other mitigation sites within the U.S. Trunk Highway 53 reconstruction corridor to evaluate their progress.

The overall goal of the project is to develop cost effective methods for creating functional mitigation wetlands in abandoned

borrow areas that meet regulatory permit requirements.

Vegetation surveys were conducted on all sites in both July and September 2012. Biweekly monitoring of water table wells

on all mitigation sites was continued throughout the frost-free season. Data have been entered on computer and organized

for the Task 4 annual summary report. Work on the Task 4 annual summary report is ongoing.

The Task 4 "Annual Summary Report - FY2013" was completed and submitted. Task 6 "Data Analysis and Interpretation -

FY 2012" was also completed and submitted. June vegetation surveys have been completed for all sites, and water level

monitoring has been ongoing throughout the growing season.

“Sphagnum Establishment on Created Gravel Pit Wetlands” based on research conducted at the MnDOT project site was

presented at the Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting held in Duluth, June 2-6, 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Steven Hauck


$142,023Total

67

Wetland Banking Fens Research Facility

Peat, Horticultural

To restore most of the effectively drained Fens Research Facility (Fens) to a variety of wetland types so new wetland credits

can be deposited into a state wetland bank for future withdrawal as wetland mitigation credits.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

For about 100 years, the Fens has been used for agriculture, horticulture, fuel peat production, and peatland research. The

peat soils have been intensively drained. With recent demand for wetland mitigation credits, the Fens became a candidate

for peatland restoration. The Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) and the Minnesota Department of

Transportation (Mn/DOT) approached NRRI about establishing numerous wetland banks at the Fens. After lengthy review,

five banks are in the process of being established. A variety of wetland types are being established. New wetland credits

(NWC) are being deposited into BWSR wetland banks. NWC are used for wetland replacement mitigation following loss of

wetlands as a result of road construction in Northeast Minnesota.

In 2002 and 2005, the University of Minnesota (UM) entered into agreements with BWSR and Mn/DOT to restore 333.2

acres of drained peatlands for NWC at the Fens. Under the 2002 and 2005 agreements, the land was cleared, vegetation

killed, and the soil rototilled. Subsequently, the ditches were filled, the land leveled and donor material (plant fragments)

from nearby bogs was gathered and spread at the Fens. Water wells and vegetation plots were monitored and herbicide was

sprayed on invasive species in August and September of each year since bank establishment. In 2008, UM entered into

another agreement with BWSR to restore 145.4 acres of drained peatlands for NWC at the Fens. Construction (2009) and

establishment of monitoring sites followed the same process as that for the 2002 and 2005 agreements.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) approved Wetland Bank I (established in 2002), and the Corps and NRRI

subsequently signed a Mitigation Banking Instrument (MBI) for perpetual care of the Bank Site. An MBI is in the final

stages of review for Wetland Banks II and III (established in 2005). The UM Office of General Counsel (OGC) and Real

Estate Office (REO), together with NRRI, are doing the review. In spring and early summer 2011, intensive vegetation and

water table monitoring were done on Wetland Banks IV and V (established in 2009). In May 2012, BWSR gave approval

for the deposit of 10 acres of NWC for Bank IV. NRRI continues to meet all agreement requirements for these banks,

including control of invasive species. Wetland Bank IV and Wetland Bank V (both established in 2009) are progressing

well as functioning restored peatlands in 2013. Routine maintenance was done on the facility and equipment as the field

season began.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Thomas Malterer

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1196-187-2426-00 05/01/2001 06/30/2014

$Total

68

Chemical Modification of Peat Granules Surface For Waste Water Treatment


To develop environmentally beneficial peat-based material that will exhibit an anion exchange properties for water

remediation purposes.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

High levels of sulfates released from Minnesota's mining industry are suspected of diminishing Minnesota's native wild rice

beds. The wild rice grew best in mucky water with a sulfate concentration of 10 parts per million or less. The state is

reconsidering its current standard for sulfate in wild rice waters, but until recently it hasn't been enforcing the existing

standard. Several available treatment processes can be organized in 4 categories: (1)chemical treatment with mineral

precipitation, (2) membrane technologies, (3) ion-exchange technologies, and (4) biological sulfate removal. All these

technologies are expensive or based on using non-renewable resources; therefore, a new and cheaper solution is required.

This research project is dealing with a development of new peat-based granular media with anion exchange properties

targeting an absorption of sulfate anion from waste water. Peat is partially decayed vegetation that accumulates in wetland

bogs and fens. Approximately 15 percent of Minnesota is covered with this valuable resource. Peat has been investigated as

a sorbent for the capture of dissolved metals, which usually represent a cation exchange mechanism. American Peat

Technology, LLC, partnered with NRRI to develop environmentally beneficial peat-based media that can be used for

purification of agricultural, mining, and industrial waste water from anion contaminates like sulfates.


The procedure of attaching the precursor group to the surface of peat granules was developed. It was shown (phase 1) that

reaction of precursor group with amines occurred with formation of quaternary ammonium group on the peat surface. This

ammonium group exhibited an anion exchange property. Structurally different quaternary ammonium groups have been

attached to the surface of peat granules and activity toward absorption of sulfate anion was observed. The team also

demonstrated that a developed technique can be used to screen the structure of amino groups targeting the selectivity of

attaching the sulfate anion. This discovery led to a second phase of the project – development of the laboratory procedure

of attaching a quaternary ammonium group that will be able to withstand multiple loading and regeneration phases.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3000-10419-0002737351,272American Peat Technology, LLC 10/01/2011 12/31/2014

$51,272Total

69

Development Of Peat-Based Media For Waste Water Treatment


To develop environmentally beneficial peat-based products that can replace chemical treatments for agricultural and

remediation purposes.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Peat is partially decayed vegetation that accumulates in wetland bogs. Approximately 15 percent of Minnesota is covered

with this valuable resource. Peat has been investigated by several researchers as a sorbent for the capture of dissolved

metals from waste streams. Utilization of peat and other biomass materials for treatment of waste water containing heavy

metals is gaining more attention as a simple, effective and economical means of pollution remediation. Besides being

plentiful and inexpensive, peat possesses several characteristics that make it an effective media for the removal of dissolved

metal pollutants. Drawbacks of using peat are its low mechanical strength, high affinity for water, poor chemical stability,

tendency to shrink and/or swell, and leaching of organic compounds. American Peat Technology, LLC, partnered with

NRRI to develop environmentally beneficial peat-based products that can be used for purification of agricultural and

industrial waste water. Developed peat products should overcome the major drawbacks of parent peat material, and should

also either inherit parent peat properties to absorb heavy metals or else have additional chemical and physical properties that

will be useful for agricultural and remediation purposes.

Newly developed APTsorb III peat granules underwent a series of column performance tests to measure absorbtion

capacity. The sorbtion capacity of APTsorb III depends on the flow velocity of waste water that has to be in the range of

0.1–0.4 m/hr to reach up to 10 mg/g for Cd. Elemental analysis of APTsorb III was completed. Results demonstrated that

the peat material passed the required Toxicity Characteristic Leachate Procedure test and can be used in industrial waste

water treatment applications. Another batch of APTsorb III (400 lb) was produced in the batch-type process. The next phase

of research has been initiated. New funding has been secured to further develop the technology.

An NRRI Team is leading the effort to develop environmentally beneficial peat based products for water remediation

purposes. The team developed a new generation of peat granular product - APTsorb III. The product is designed to adsorb

heavy metals from industrial and storm waters to meet EPA regulations. A patent application was submitted to United Stated

Patent Office covering the newly developed water remediation technology and the product. The team also has measured

and plotted the dependence of flow velocity vs the absorption capacity of APTsorb III. It was shown that APTsorb III

exhibits the preferred selectivity of adsorbing cadmium ion compare to zinc ion. Several industrial trials are currently

underway. Additional funding has been secured to further describe the adsorption characteristics and mechanisms of newly

developed product.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3000-10419-00009400182,049American Peat Technology, LLC 11/13/2009 12/31/2013

$182,049Total

70

Center for Applied Research and Technology – Program Notes Forestry/Forest Products Personnel

Adam Beissel, Matthew Young, and Joseph Klett were hired as student engineers to work on a variety of

timber bridge inspection and repair projects. Adam is a junior at the University of Minnesota Duluth,

Matthew is a sophomore at the University of Minnesota Duluth, and Joe is a senior at the University of

Wisconsin.

Eric Skare was hired for a research assistant position to assist with our thermal modification research for

engineered wood materials (NSF) project. Eric is a junior at the University of Minnesota Duluth in the

mechanical engineering program.

Scientific Meetings/Presentations

Matthew Aro gave a presentation entitled “Thermally-Modified Timber: Opportunities for

Window and Door Manufacture” at the North American Wood Window and Door Symposium in

Roseville, Minnesota, April 2013.

Matthew Aro gave a presentation entitled “Using Waste Paper Mill Residues to Manufacture

Fire-rated Building Components” at the Next Generation Raw Material Sourcing: Industrial

Byproduct Utilization, A Dialogue with Great Lakes Business and Industry Conference in

Duluth, Minnesota, in March 2013.

Bill Berguson gave a presentation of our poplar research and related biomass production

activities associated with the Laurentian Energy Project at the Department of Energy’s semi-

annual program review meeting. This project was highly reviewed by a panel of industry,

government, and university experts with very positive feedback regarding direction and execution

of the research work.

Brian Brashaw gave a presentation entitled “Thermal Heating Opportunities for Using Biomass

in the Midwest” at the Next Generation Raw Material Sourcing: Industrial Byproduct Utilization,

A Dialogue with Great Lakes Business and Industry Conference in Duluth, Minnesota, in March

2013.

Brian Brashaw gave a presentation entitled “Use of Laser Scanning Technology to Obtain As-

built Records of Historic Covered Bridges” at the Second National Covered Bridge Conference

in Dayton, Ohio, in June 2013.

Brian Brashaw gave a presentation entitled “Lightweight Deck Systems for Historic Covered

Bridge Rehabilitation” at the Second National Covered Bridge Conference in Dayton, Ohio, in

June 2013.

Tim Hagen gave a presentation entitled “Products and Opportunities for Waste Materials” to the

University of Minnesota Duluth, University for Seniors, in Duluth, Minnesota, in May 2013.

Tim Hagen gave a presentation entitled “Products and Opportunities in Mattress Recycling” at

the Next Generation Raw Material Sourcing: Industrial Byproduct Utilization, A Dialogue with

Great Lakes Business and Industry Conference in Duluth, Minnesota, in March 2013.

Pavel Krasutsky gave a presentation entitled “Extracting More: Chemical Technologies for

Value-added Products From Waste Birch Bark and Dried Distillers Grains and Solubles (DDGS)”

at the Next Generation Raw Material Sourcing: Industrial Byproduct Utilization, A Dialogue with

Great Lakes Business and Industry Conference in Duluth, Minnesota, in March 2013.

71

Publications

B.K. Brashaw and S. Anderson. 2013. Use of Laser Scanning Technology for Covered Bridges:

Amnicon Bridge Final Report. Natural Resources Research Institute Technical Report Number

NRRI/TR-2013/22.

B. Brashaw, V. Krause, and R. Vatalaro. 2013. Northern Softwood Lumber Bureau SPF south Lumber

Testing Results. Natural Resources Research Institute Technical Report Number NRRI/TR-2013/13.

V. Krause. 2013. Adhesive Heat Testing Jowat 150.90 and Daubert 6493. Natural Resources Research

Institute Technical Report Number NRRI/TR-2013/01.

V. Krause. 2013. Adhesive Heat Testing – Solo Heat Test. Natural Resources Research Institute

Technical Report Number NRRI/TR-2013/02.

V. Krause. 2013. Evaluation and Comparison of Cutting Surfaces. Natural Resources Research Institute


V. Krause. 2013. Adhesive Heat Testing Jowat vs. Daubert Adhesives. Natural Resources Research

Institute Technical Report Number NRRI/TR-2013/15.

T. Hagen. 2013. Densification Properties for Torrified Feedstock. Natural Resources Research Institute


V. Krause. 2013. Laminate Performance Testing - Arctic White 0228, Dune 0226, Vintage 0203,

Seagull 0227. Natural Resources Research Institute Technical Report Number NRRI/TR-2013/19.

Outreach

Region Five Development Commission, Staples, Minnesota, and Minnesota Department of Employment

and Economic Development, St. Paul, Minnesota: Brian Brashaw continued to provide support to the

regional planning grant provided to Region Five and the Department of Employment and Economic

Development for the development of a Minnesota renewable energy proof of concept center. Brashaw

and his team provided information and key directories of Minnesota’s college and university renewable

energy researchers.

Northern Softwood Lumber Bureau, Minnesota & Wisconsin: Brian Brashaw, Victor Krause, and Robert

Vatalaro completed static bending tests for structural 2- by 4-inch softwood lumber. Testing of balsam

fir, eastern spruce, jack pine, and red pine was conducted to determine the structural properties and the

failure type. The data was analyzed and submitted to the American Lumber Standards Council for

review.

Heating the Midwest with Renewable Biomass: Brian Brashaw is serving as the chairperson of the

steering committee for this grass roots effort aimed at developing a vision and implementing increasing

use of renewable biomass for thermal heating applications. This organization contracted with Future

Metrics, a leading biomass thermal consulting economist, to develop a Midwest Vision for Biomass

Heating that was presented at the 2013 Heating the Midwest Conference and Expo held in Carlton,

Minnesota, on April 24-26, 2013, at the Black Bear Casino Convention Center. This event included two

pre-conference tours, presentations on biomass heating, and an expo hall demonstrating the latest

technology for biomass thermal and combined heat and power.

Hawks Boots, Inc. (Epicurean Cutting Surfaces/Loll Design/Intectural) Duluth, Minnesota: NRRI

continued evaluation of raw materials for Loll Design by exposure to exterior weathering. NRRI staff

72

mkunkel

Typewritten Text

continued to identify product and manufacturing options for utilization significant volumes of waste

materials produced by Epicurean.

Cirrus Design, Duluth, Minnesota: NRRI conducted laboratory conditioning of fabric samples for flame

spread testing. Ongoing testing of resin flow of fiberglass samples was conducted as part of Cirrus’

ongoing relationship with NRRI.

Ferche Millwork, Rice, Minnesota: Victor Krause worked with Ferche Millwork in an attempt to identify

problems with the wrapped door jamb product. He assisted in determining potential causes for adhesion

problems.

Northern Contours, Inc., Fergus Falls, Minnesota: Victor Krause conducted scratch mar testing, heat

resistance testing, boiling water resistance testing, and steam exposure testing for a variety of wood and

laminate cabinet door products.

Cass County Economic Development Corporation, Backus, Minnesota: Tim Hagen provided information

on the production of bio-char as a wood product option.

Saint Louis County Land Department, Duluth, Minnesota: NRRI assisted the Saint Louis County Land

Department in estimating the amount of additional biomass that may be expected when top- and limb-

biomass is harvested along with the standard roundwood harvest. Information was summarized and sent

to the Land Department based on data collected from a cooperative project on Red Pine biomass

assessment.

Molphus Woodlands Group: Assistance was provided to the Molphus Woodlands Group in estimating

aspen harvest volumes on regenerating stands in Minnesota.

Dixon-Moody Timber Group, LLC, Opelika, Alabama: Developed and executed Service Agreement with

Dixon- Moody Timber to investigate thermally modified wood products with Southern Yellow Pine.

Stora Enso Oy, Helsinki, Finland: Developed and executed Services Agreement with Stora Enso Oy,

Helsinki, Finland, to provided professional consulting services that include providing trade event

discovery of North American events.

Timeless Timber, Ashland, Wisconsin: Developed and executed Services Agreement with Timeless

Timber, Ashland, Wisconsin, to assist in the development of wood light poles.

Urban Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota Twin Cities: Assisted the University of

Minnesota Twin Cities – Urban Research and Outreach Center vet a business development – job creation

concept using ready to assemble building technology. The effort included assisting in a business

feasibility study conducted by Carlson Consulting Enterprises.

Koochiching Economic Development Authority, International Falls, Minnesota: Assisted Koochiching

Economic Development Authority vet a business development – job creation concept using ready to

assemble building technology. The on-going effort is focusing on the potential to build an automated

factory in International Falls, Minnesota.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, LaCrosse, Wisconsin: Brian Brashaw provided information

on the inspection equipment and techniques for a timber bridge near Cornell, Wisconsin, that is on the Ice

Age Trail.

Kansas Forest Service, Valley Falls, Kansas: Brian Brashaw provided five copies of the publication

“Wood Utilization Options for Urban Trees Infested by Invasive Species” (Brian Brashaw, Ross, Wang,

and Wiemann) to Kansas Forest Service.

73

Delaware Center for Agriculture, Wilmington, Delaware: Brian Brashaw provided a copy of the

publication “Wood Utilization Options for Urban Trees Infested by Invasive Species” (Brian Brashaw,

Ross, Wang, and Wiemann) to Delaware Center for Agriculture.

Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi: Brian Brashaw provided information on the use of

ultrasonic inspection equipment for timbers.

Pak Mail, Blaine, Minnesota: Brian Brashaw provided information on companies that log or harvest

underwater wood. Pak Mail is a custom shipper that was asked by one of their custom furniture

manufacturers to help source product.

Sensient Colors Inc., St. Louis, Missouri: Tim Hagen referred Sensient Colors Inc. from St. Louis to a

Minnesota company who is looking for a lower cost colorant for their mulch products.

Better Future Enterprises, Minneapolis, Minnesota: Tim Hagen and Brian Brashaw provided insight,

guidance, potential funding strategies, and resources for finding beneficial uses for deconstruction wood

waste that they process.

Biovation, LLC, Mankato, Minnesota: Victor Krause tested laminate samples for physical performance

(scratch, mar, abrasion, etc.).

BTD Powder Coatings, Brainerd, Minnesota: Victor Krause completed a scratch and mar testing on

powder coated wood samples.

Grand Log Homes, LLC, Grand Rapids, Minnesota: Victor Krause assisted in assembly procedures and

testing that included accelerated adhesive aging and R-value insulation testing.

Henkel Adhesive Technologies, Bridgewater, New Jersey: Victor Krause evaluated spray ability,

pressing performance, and heat resistance of one-part adhesive for membrane pressing.

Northern Contours, Inc., Fergus Falls, Minnesota: Victor Krause conducted scratch mar testing, heat

resistance testing, boiling water resistance testing, and steam exposure testing in support of their

manufacturing operations.

OMNOVA, Monroe, North Carolina: Victor Krause conducted a study to assess flatness of wood panel

laminates for application as store fixtures.

Sappi, Cloquet, Minnesota: Victor Krause provided support on assessment of wood species for Sappi.

Van Technologies, Duluth, Minnesota: Victor Krause fabricated decorative foil stamping device and

discussed potential causes for yellow discoloration of coating for Van Technologies.

Ken Raihala, Superior, Wisconsin: Brian Brashaw discussed invention idea and introduced Mr. Raihala

to the NRRI Rapid Prototyping Center Director, Steve Kossett.

Development Capital Networks, Minnesota: Brian Brashaw provided referral to the USDA Forest

Service, Forest Products Laboratory, for possible product development associated with plastic, recycled

plastic and agricultural residues.

Krueger Contracting, Duluth, Minnesota: Brian Brashaw provided information on the type of

deterioration that might occur to red pine logs installed as a monument at Unitarian Universalist Church

in Duluth.

74

Graphic Wood Technologies, Spooner, Wisconsin: Victor Krause and Scott Johnson completed a trial of

membrane pressing veneer onto parts brought in by Tim Hagen. Product is proof of concept for applying

thin veneer to garage door parts to offer a mid-range alternative to solid wood garage doors.

Bob Owens, Duluth, Minnesota: Brian Brashaw provided background information on softwoods sawmill

technology and wood supply in Minnesota.

Viracon Inc., Owatonna, Minnesota: Brian Brashaw provided information on finger jointing lumber for

possible expansion of manufacturing process.

Micro Fibers Inc., Charlotte, North Carolina: Tim Hagen provided assessment of pellet ability of a

sample of flax fibre.

Premium Plant Services, Hibbing, Minnesota: Tim Hagen provided information about filtering grit from

storm water. They were referred to Contech Stormwater Solutions in an effort to build credibility

surrounding grit removal from wastewater.

University of Minnesota, Crookston, Minnesota: Tim Hagen completed a pelleting trial on the ability to

torrify and pellet cattail fiber.

Facilities

The NRRI greenhouse is being used as part of the 2013 poplar breeding cycle. The controlled climate

facility was used in January and February to pre-treat cottonwood female plants as part of the breeding

program to increase plant vigor and breeding success.

75

Coleraine Minerals Research Lab & Economic Geology Group The CARTD Minerals Division was reorganized, to improve project and work load supervision and

budget management, enhance coordination of strategic developments that have the potential for bringing

in new industry related to minerals, and to address serious environmental issues associated with minerals

development on a pro-active basis. As such, more efficient coordination between CMRL and the Duluth

Minerals Section was required. As a result, two new positions were created that enhance organizational

effectiveness. The first position is the Director, Minerals Division. This position is responsible for

coordination of the work within the Minerals Division that arises either at CMRL or the Duluth Minerals

Section. This position will also manage the overall strategic plan for the Division and the tactical details

that will allow the strategy to be implemented efficiently. This individual will report directly to the

Director, CARTD. A second new position, Director, Strategic Development, was created to manage

multiple special developmental opportunities that have arisen and are expected to continue to arise as the

non-ferrous industry and ferrous industries are established or expanded. In addition, the modified position

of the Director for CMRL will focus on efficient operation of the laboratory with full budgetary, planning,

project and personnel management responsibilities. These leadership changes are indicated below:

Director, Minerals Division: George J. Hudak, Ph.D., P. G.

Director, Coleraine Minerals Research Laboratory: Richard F. Kiesel Director, Strategic Developments: David W. Hendrickson

Personnel During this semi-annual period, new employees added at Coleraine were as follows: Matt Mlinar and

Tom Petersen (January), Dick Bellefy, Joe Cannella and Graham Redshaw (February), Basak Anameric and Jack Grochowski (April), and summer students Fred Kiesel, Gina Gould, Ryan Hoag, Gregory Gargano, Sarah Post and Bazil Zuelke (June).

Mark Severson continues to log drill core (>50% time) for Teck American in Babbitt.

Scientific Meetings/Presentations/Papers

Society of Wetland Scientists (SWS) Annual Meeting

Kurt Johnson attended the Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting being held in Duluth, June 2-6,

2013. He presented “Sphagnum Establishment on Created Gravel Pit Wetlands” and also moderated a

session of the Peatland Restoration Symposium. Additionally, he was a co-leader for the SWS field trip

“Peatland Restoration: Cedar Swamps and Bogs” with Rod Chimner of Michigan Tech and Tom Malterer of NRRI, held on Sunday, June 2. Kurt also hosted Dr. Neil Cowie, a restoration scientist from

Scotland, spending several days touring NRRI restoration sites the week before the conference.

George Hudak attended the 2013 Geological Association of Canada/Mineralogical Association of

Canada in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, on May 22-24. While at the meeting, he gave two oral

presentations on gold-rich volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits. These included “Stratigraphy and

Physical Volcanology Associated with the Paleoproterozoic Back Forty VMS Deposit, Menominee

County, Michigan” with co-authors Cabin Totenhagen (Twin Metals Minnesota), Ronald Morton

(Department of Geosciences, UMD) and Tom Quigley (Aquila Resources, Inc.); and “Physical

Volcanology and Hydrothermal Alteration at the Rainy River Gold Project, NW Ontario” with co-authors

Jakob Wartman (Cliffs Natural Resources) and Ronald Morton.

Field Trips

On May 8, John Heine and Marsha Patelke participated in a field trip titled “Geological Overview of

the Keeweenawan Peninsula Michigan,” and Steve Monson Geerts and Steve Hauck participated in a

field trip titled “Caledonia Mine, Ontonagon, Michigan” as part of the 2013 Institute on Lake Superior

Geology (ILSG) annual meeting. On May 11, Steve Monson Geerts participated in a field trip titled

“Geology of the Porcupine Mountains – a late Keweenawan central volcanic complex, Michigan” as part

of the 2013 ILSG meeting.

76

From May 25-May 31, 2013, Steve Monson Geerts participated in the “Geological Field Trip – Eastern

Isle Royale, Michigan.” This field trip was also associated with the 2013 ILSG meeting.

George Hudak attended a field trip to investigate the physical volcanology associates with the world-

class VMS orebodies in the Flin Flon mining camp of Manitoba and Saskatchewan from May 25-29,

2013. The field trip was part of the 2013 Geological Association of Canada/Mineralogical Association of

Canada annual meeting.

Outreach

Jim Miller, Marsha Patelke, and John Heine were instrumental in running the 2013 Minnesota

Minerals Education Workshop held at Hibbing Community College June 18-20.

Jim Miller and George Hudak are Faculty Advisors for the new student chapter of the Society of

Economic Geologists at UMD.

George Hudak continues to be a mentor for the Society of Economic Geologists.

Coleraine Technical Reports

Kiesel, R.F, Confidential Technical Report issued to Kumba/Sishen – February 18, 2013 – NRRI/TR-

2013/03, 53 pgs.

Petersen, T.S., Mack, P.J., and Mlinar, M.A., Confidential Technical Report issued to New Millennium

– March 8, 2013 – NRRI/TR-2013/06, 198 pgs.

Englund, D.J. and Davis, R.A., Confidential Technical Report – March 11, 2013 – NRRI/TR-2013/08,

142 pgs.

Englund, D.J., Confidential Technical Report issued to ArcelorMittal – March 22, 2013 – NRRI/TR-

2013/16, 14 pgs.

Economic Geology Group Technical Summary Reports

Zanko, L.M., Patelke, M.M., and Mack, P.J., 2013, Keweenaw Peninsula (Gay, Michigan) Stamp Sand,

February 15, 2013; Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, Technical

Summary Report NRRI/TSR-2013/01, 54 p.

Zanko, L.M., Levar, T.E., Maly, C., and Patelke, M.M., 2013, Evaluate the Effectiveness of Using

Microwave Technology to Sterilize Seeds Contained in Erie Pier Fine Grained Dredged Material,

February 28, 2013; Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, Technical

Summary Report NRRI/TSR-2013/02, 40 p.

Patelke, M.M., Levar, T.E., Zanko, L.M., Oreskovich, J.A., Mack, P.J., and Maly, C., 2013, Erie Pier

Dredge Material Beneficial Use Study – Final Report; Natural Resources Research Institute, University of

Minnesota Duluth, Technical Summary Report NRRI/TSR-2013/03, in prep.

Economic Geology Group Reports of Investigation

Monson Geerts, S.D., Hudak, G.J., Marple, V., Lundgren, D., Olson, B., and Brecke, D.M., 2013,

Minnesota Taconite Workers Health Study: Environmental Study of Airborne Particulate Matter -

Development of Standard

Operating Procedures for Particle Collection and Gravimetric Analysis; Natural Resources Research

Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, Report of Investigation NRRI/RI-2013/01, 107 p, in review.

Monson Geerts, S.J., Hudak, G.J., Marple, V., Zanko, L.M., Lundgren, D., and Olson, B., 2013,

Minnesota Taconite Workers Health Study: Taconite Processing Facilities Particulate Matter Collection

77

and Gravimetric Analysis; Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, Report

of Investigation NRRI/RI-2013/02, in prep.

Economic Geology Group Posters

Heine, J., Hauck, S., Severson, M., Post, S., and Chlebecek, S., 2013, Searching for Rare Earth Elements

in Minnesota; Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, NRRI/POSTER-

2013/01.

Hudak, G., Monson Geerts, S., Zanko, L.M., Severson, A., Kramer, S., and Bandli, B., 2013, The

Minnesota Taconite Workers Health Study: Environmental Study of Airborne Particulates – 2013 Update;

Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth, NRRI/POSTER-2013/02.

Fehrs, E., Kenny, E., Kuchma, J., Sauer, S., Sylvester, W., and Hudak, G.J., 2013, Bedrock Geologica

Map of the Putnam Lake Area, St. Louis County, NE Minnesota; Natural Resources Research Institute,

University of Minnesota Duluth, NRRI/POSTER-2013/03.

Facilities

Plans are being developed to add a new Hydrometallurgy building on the CMRL campus to help advance

copper/nickel/PGM hydromet processing technologies in northeastern Minnesota if appropriate funding

can be secured from a variety of sources. This facility would also provide additional jobs for northeastern

Minnesota.

78

Center for Water and Environment

79

Identifying Critical Habitats for Moose in Northeastern Minnesota


The project is a coordinated effort to determine whether it is possible to slow or prevent a decline in northeastern

Minnesota`s moose population. Public outreach and education will be accomplished with a website that provides

information on moose in Minnesota and allows the public to report moose sightings. The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley

will develop an on-site informational kiosk about Minnesota moose and zoo educators will help develop a curriculum for

teacher workshops to be held both at the zoo and at the Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center near Duluth. We will

schedule 25 public moose presentations per year. The project combines research and education to increase public

understanding of Minnesota moose now and in the future.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Moose are one of Minnesota's most prized wildlife species. In less than 20 years moose in northwestern Minnesota declined

from over 4,000 to fewer than 100. The northeastern Minnesota moose population, with over 7,000 moose, may be

beginning a similar decline. Higher mortality in radiocollared moose is correlated with warm temperatures. Satellite collars

will track moose in northeastern Minnesota and collect GPS locations day and night 365 days a year. Specific habitats

needed by moose will be identified using the satellite collars. Spatial distribution and availability of habitat types will guide

identification of specific sites for enhancement, protection, or acquisition. Development of habitat guidelines will help

private and public land managers provide the best possible habitat for moose.

This is one of four current GPS collar projects. In January of 2011, we deployed collars on 64 moose that will collect GPS

locations every 20 minutes and send the locations via the Iridium satellite cell phone network to the PI. Activity and air

temperature is also monitored on the collar.

This is the first project in the world to take locations frequently enough to monitor an animals movement 24 hours a day, 7

days a week. We expect that it will provide insight into landscape use by moose, management activities that could benefit

moose, habitat selection in cool and hot weather, and information on calving by moose.

The Minnesota Zoo completed updating the existing moose display with new graphics that cover basic moose biology,

explain historical trends in moose populations in Minnesota, and present findings from this project. A new moose sculpture

was acquired by the zoo with other funding.

We are now finishing up data analysis and will be presenting results as Technical Reports and peer-reviewed papers over

the next several months. Important findings relate to moose use of thermal refuge habitats when it is warm, and also the

extent to which feeding occurs on younger regenerating forests. Several graduate students are currently using GPS locations

obtained from this moose collar project to develop their thesis research project.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Ronald Moen

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3015-10430-00010577507,000Legislative Comm on MN Resources 07/01/2010 06/30/2013

$507,000Total

80

Investigations of Wolf-Moose Interactions at Voyageurs National Park


The objective of this research project is to study interactions between the recently delisted gray wolf and moose, a species in

decline.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project will increase the public's understanding of predator-prey dynamics in the relatively intact ecosystem of

Voyageurs National Park. It will also help the public understand about how changing environmental conditions, such as land

use change and climate change, may fundamentally alter the way that boreal ecosystems function. During the past two

decades, moose density declined dramatically in NW Minnesota, from at least 4,000 to fewer than 100 animals. Annual

moose mortality was high, at 21%, and moose pregnancy and recruitment rates were very low in the late 1990s in

northwestern Minnesota (Murray et al. 2006). Essentially, Minnesota lost one of two relatively disjunct populations of

moose in the state.

We assisted in the capture and collaring of wolves beginning in the summer of 2012, assist in acquiring and programming

GPS collars for placement on captured wolves, assist in data acquisition and management of collar data, including GPS

locations, and assist in data analysis, report writing, and manuscript preparation summarizing ecological interactions

between wolves and moose.

We collected about 104,000 locations in 2010 and over 200,000 locations in 2011 from 25 different moose. After collars

are retrieved in 2013 we will calculate seasonal and annual home ranges of moose in Voyageurs National Park. Size and

cover type composition of home ranges in Voyageurs National Park will be compared to to home ranges of moose from

previous radiotelemetry projects in Minnesota, Ontario, and other parts of moose range.

We are continuing to download wolf and moose locations, and have assisted with wolf capture over the summer. We are

also analyzing data and writing manuscripts for publication. Among the manuscripts in progress are a comparison of home

ranges and cover type use for historical GPS collar data from VOYA (1995-1997) and this research project (2010-2012).

Cover type use will also be evaluated with respect to temperature, wind, and humidity conditions consistent with climate

change predictions.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10430-0003151312,000USDI National Park Service 07/01/2012 06/30/2014

3002-10430-0003117353,043USDA US Geological Survey 06/01/2012 06/30/2014

$65,043Total

81

Lowland Conifer Bird Species in Agassiz Lowlands


The objective of this project is to gather information on breeding bird populations in the Agassiz Lowland subsection of

Minnesota. The primary goals are to understand how management of lowland conifer forests is affecting breeding birds as

well as to identify how we can improve habitat management for specific target species in these forests.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

In recent years, more extensive logging efforts have been undertaken in lowland conifer forests of north central Minnesota.

These forests, primarily made up of black spruce and tamarack, are vast and potentially have a great impact on many species

of breeding birds in Minnesota.

To better understand how these changing management practices are affecting breeding birds, CWE staff undertook a project

that samples habitat-based locations for birds throughout the breeding season. The design consists of five classes of lowland

conifer forests categorized by dominant tree species and age-class of tree species. These locations are sequentially surveyed

for breeding birds throughout the breeding season (early May through early July).

Breeding bird data were gathered from a series of lowland coniferous sites identified by the Minnesota DNR in Grand

Rapids. These sites were in stands of various age classes, cover types (e.g., black spruce, tamarack,and white cedar), and

site quality. Counts were all completed by June 30, 2011. A report will be sent to the Minnesota DNR with the results of the

surveys. These surveys will form the basis on decisions regarding future work in the Agassiz lowlands subsection,

especially in the context of future logging within these vast lowlands.

CWE staff designed and organized the sampling protocol in the winter and spring of 2013. The final design consists of 65

different forest stands of five different cover types. Each of these stands was sampled for breeding birds three times

between May and July, 2013. This broad coverage allows for early as well as late-breeding species to be identified.

All of these data were entered and recently completed a dual-entry error checking process. In total, nearly 6,000 individual

birds of 107 species were observed in the lowland conifer forests of the Agassiz Lowland subsection. Many observations are

of uncommon or declining species that have been identified by the MN DNR as species of Conservation Need. Further

summary and analysis will be initiated in the fall of 2013 to investigate where specific species breed and how management

practices might affect their populations.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Gerald Niemi

Edmund Zlonis

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3005-10429-000240603,000MN DNR 05/15/2011 06/30/2011

3013-10429-0003148229,289MN Department of Natural Resources 05/14/2012 03/30/2014

3013-10429-0003041936,341MN DNR/Federal Funds 05/14/2012 03/30/2014

$68,630Total

82

Mapping Native Plant Communities of Minnesota`s Forest Lands


Mapping of the native plant communities for Minnesota`s Laurentian Mixed Forest based on the Minnesota DNR

Ecological Classification System.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Minnesota Forest Resources Council's Landscape Program recognizes several distinct regional landscapes, formed by

integrating the natural physiographic and climatic regions of the state with social and economic objectives. These

landscapes have served as focal points for regional planning efforts involving multiple groups of stakeholders. While the

landscape regions have unique issues and potentials, they all have common data needs. Foremost among these is an

assessment of landscape potential, which is required to formulate desired future conditions.

This project will: 1) Integrate a suite of geospatial data layers to create native plant community maps of the Drift and Lake

Plains and Western Superior Uplands ecological sections, with a spatial resolution similar to the Minnesota-Ontario

Peatlands and Northern Superior Uplands native plant community maps and based on the Department of Natural Resources

classification of native plant communities. 2) In support of the landscape committee planning efforts, summarize acreages of

native plant communities at the system and class level by ownership; provide other reports in consultation with committee

members.

We downloaded and processed the newly available soil series data from the Natural Resources Conservation Service. We

also acquire the plant relevee database, which provides ecological descriptions for 3000+ sample points across northern

Minnesota. Finally, we summarized geomorphic, topographic and other relevant geospatial data to develop an input data set

to test against the native plant community relevees.

Analyses are underway - the end product will be a synoptic map of native plant communities for the Minnesota Drift and

Lake Plains and Western Superior Uplands, which will complete the native plant community classification for the entire

Laurentian Mixed Forest within Minnesota.

We used recursive partitioning generate a model that assigns native plant community (NPC) classes to 30 x 30 m grid cells

across the Northern Minnesota Drift and Lake Plains and Western and Southern Superior Uplands Ecological Sections.

Inputs to the model included land type association, soil texture and drainage, slope, aspect, and other topographic features.

Lowland and upland sites were separated based on a score derived from the National Wetland Inventory, a soil moisture

index, soil survey data, and GAP site classification.

The resulting map was refined using the MN DNR GAP classification; this lead to a more reliable classification of Wet

Forest, Acid Peatlands, Open Peatlands, and Mesic Hardwoods. Areas in different NPC Classes were summarized by

ownership (federal, state, county, private) and by MFRC Landscape Regions. The latest version of the map is under review.

__________________________________________________________________________


Principal Investigator(s)George Host

Terry Brown

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1663-189-6195-0020,000MN Dept of Natural Resources 06/05/2000 09/30/2000

1663-189-6216-0025,000MN-Deptartment of Natural Resources 01/01/2001 06/30/2001

3005-10107-000294629,500MN Department of Natural Resources 05/30/2012 06/30/2013

3002-10107-0003040912,000USDA Northern Research Station 08/29/2012 06/30/2013

$66,500Total

83

Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas


To complete a systematic count of breeding birds in all townships in the state of Minnesota as part of the Minnesota

Breeding Bird Atlas. The methodology will allow samples to be gathered in the future in a representative and repeatable

fashion.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Minnesota is one of only six states in the United States that does not have a breeding bird atlas. An atlas is important to

define the distribution and abundance of breeding species throughout the state. It will be useful for conservation planning

and environmental impact assessment.

During the 2009 and 2010 breeding seasons we sampled 40% of Minnesota townships (>920). We observed over 200

species of birds and counted over 78,000 individual birds in over 950 townships and in over 2,800 individual point counts.

CWE bird censusers also contributed thousands of observations to the Minnesota Atlas database in the complementary

study organized by Audubon Minnesota. This represented over 4,000 probable or confirmed breeding records for Minnesota

birds.

During the winter of 2011, data gathered during 2009 and 2010 were summarized. Many qualified bird observers were

identified, primarily graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Minnesota. Breeding birds were sampled in

over 700 townships with over 2,000 point counts from May 27 to July 15, 2011. Because these data collection efforts were

recently completed, they have not yet been analyzed. These data are currently being double-entered and error-checked to

During the 2011 and 2012 breeding seasons CWE staff completed systematic sampling for breeding birds in more than 1000

Minnesota townships. This huge effort, in conjunction with 2009 and 2010, nearly completed the sampling of Minnesota's

approximately 2500 townships. In 2013, these remaining townships were completed. These data have recently been

entered to an online database and are in the final stages of error checking. In total, more than 200,000 individual birds of

more than 225 species were detected.

In addition to systematic point-count sampling, CWE staff participated in collecting breeding evidence data in conjunction

with Audubon Minnesota. These efforts were focused during the breeding seasons of 2012 and 2013, when many areas

receiving little attention by Audubon volunteers were sampled by CWE. This included many remote and road-less areas

like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Voyageurs National Park, the Northwest Angle, and the peatland region

of northern Minnesota. Based on sampling by both CWE personnel, Audubon Minnesota, and volunteers, nearly 250

species of birds have been shown to have probable or confirmed breeding evidence throughout Minnesota.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Annie Bracey

Edmund Zlonis

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3015-10429-00000576101,000LCCMR 07/01/2008 06/30/2010

3015-10429-00019124161,000Legislative Comm on MN Resources 07/01/2010 06/30/2012

3006-10429-00030942117,601National Audubon Soc (MNDNR Prime) 05/15/2012 12/30/2013

$379,601Total

84

Post-burn Bird Surveys at Pagmi River, Superior National Forest


To sample breeding birds (2012-2016) in habitats burned by the Pagami Creek Fire (2011). These data will be used to

compare with the breeding communities of both pre-fire samples and areas not affected by the fire.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

A two-year study comparing the breeding bird communities of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)

and the surrounding Superior National Forest (SNF) was conducted in 2010-2011. The principal goal of this research was to

compare bird communities of areas primarily affected by natural disturbance (BWCAW) with those with more extensive

human use, and in particular, logging (surrounding SNF). The study consisted of 10 transects that cross the border of the

BWCAW. More information about this study can be found in a Master's thesis (Edmund Zlonis) recently submitted to the

Graduate School at the University of Minnesota.

In the early fall of 2011, the Pagami Creek Fire completely burned one of these transects and nearly burned two additional

transects. This event allows the unique opportunity to survey bird communities pre and post-fire. Due to the importance of

fire in boreal ecosystems, and concerns over increasing forestry impacts, some research has been conducted on the effects of

wildfire on boreal bird communities. However, opportunities for pre and post-burn surveys are uncommon and the proposed

research will add to knowledge of regional bird communities and potentially to broad patterns throughout boreal forests.

In June of 2012, CWE staff re-sampled avian point count locations at three transects in and around the BWCAW and Pagmi

Creek Fire (PCF). In total, seventy-two 10-minute point counts were sampled for breeding birds. In addition, burn severity

estimates were also conducted to assess the intensity of the fire. All data have been entered in our online database; however,

extensive summary and statistical analysis have yet to be completed.

Over 1300 individual birds of 74 species were detected in the resample of avian point counts. Four species that had never

been observed at point counts in the previous thesis project were observed in the PCF area. In addition, several species,

although surveyed in past seasons, showed especially high abundance in recently burned areas.

In late May and early June, 2013, CWE staff re-sampled avian point count locations in and around the PCF area. The data

were entered and error checked in August, 2013. A detailed summary is expected in the winter of 2013-2014.

An effort to systematically survey the vegetation and vegetation changes at these locations was initiated in 2013. In

particular, detailed surveys of vegetation were conducted in both burned and unburned locations in late August, 2013. In

the future, these data will be used in conjunction with avian data to better understand how natural forest disturbances affect

the flora and fauna of northeastern Minnesota.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Edmund Zlonis


$4,000Total

85

Reducing Human-mediated Spread of Non-native Earthworms


The long-term goal of this integrated proposal is to substantially reduce the rate of spread of damaging, invasive earthworms

in northern hardwood forests.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project focuses on several aspects of earthworm invations, including the effect of bait labels on bait disposal behavior

in the population of anglers. We assessed behavior of anglers visiting fishing resorts and anglers purchasing bait at bait

shops. This was done directly by counting the number of containers placed in a bait disposal bin at the resorts, and indirectly

through written surveys in both groups. We also developed computer models to predict the potential for earthworm invasion

and assessed earthworm densities at varying distances from boat landings.

We began a modeling project to predict levels of earthworm invasion based on geospatial data, including distance to boat

landings, campgrounds, and other sources for colonization, along with abiotic factors such as soil type, slope and aspect.

The project will test statistical models against predictions derived from simple tesselation and kriging methods. The

predictions will be evaluated in Fall 2012 with field visits.

We also conducted a project to how different phases of colonization relate to distances from boat landings. Colonization did

decrease with distance, with heavy nightcrawler infestations found within the first few hundred meeters of the boat launch,

with progressively decreasing densities to relatively low levels at 1000 m.

We used two modeling approaches - kriging and logisti regression - to predict the potential distribution of earthworms

along the north shore. The best predictors from the logistic regression were elevation, distance from roads, and presence of

boat launches.

We were able to develop predictive models for areas that should be free of earthworms, but were not able to predict the

intensity of invasion. This was due in part to the finding that 95% of all study sites had earthworms present.

The drought in 2012 prevented our planned fall field assessment of model results; this assessment was deferred to fall 2013.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Cindy Hale

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-11022-0001181250,000Dept of Entomology(USDA Food&Ag

Prime)

02/01/2010 01/31/2013

$50,000Total

86

Restoring Moose Foraging Habitat in Lake Superior Upland


Restore moose foraging habitat in Lake Superior upland.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Moose populations in the western portion of the Lake Superior watershed may be declining. Annual mortality rates of adult

cows are much higher than in other moose populations. We will restore over 200 acres of moose foraging habitat. We will

also evaluate moose use of previously restored foraging habitat, and test how moose wearing GPS collars use restored sites,

and how far moose will move from thermal cover to forage. Funds will only be used for habitat restoration and measuring

moose use of restored habitat because the GPS collar project is funded by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota

Resources.

We did contracts to restore about 200 acres of moose foraging habitat and monitored browse intensity at several sites in

northeastern Minnesota.

The habitat restoration on Lake County forestry land was accomplished in December 2010 and January 2011. In midwinter

we measured browsing intensity and sampled bites in areas where GPS collared moose were foraging. This measured the

actual forage availability to moose on the landscape. This spring when the snow was gone we measured overall browse

removal in the winter on some of these sites as well as other sites. The net effect was that browse removal was locally

higher than expected, and there were other areas with relatively low browse removal.

We continue to measure browse response to different habitat treatments on this project. Rachel Ward has almost finished

her M.S. thesis on moose browsing. Amanda McGraw is also working on her Ph.D. on this project.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10430-00015901193,432Environmental Protection Agency 08/16/2010 06/30/2014

$193,432Total

87

Amity Creek Restoration Project


Reduce sediment to Amity Creek by improved land cover in riparian areas disturbed by development or legacy impacts, and

improved stormwater planning and management tools in two rural townships experiencing continued development

pressures, and broader use of stormwater reduction and watershed protection resources available on the regional website

www.lakesuperiorstreams.org.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The turbidity and sediment-impaired Amity Creek watershed was chosen as a demonstration site for various restoration and

protection activities. Superior trout streams may be harmed by excess muddiness from soil and grit washing in, and erosion

caused by too much water entering the streams too quickly after storms and snow melt instead of slowly seeping into the

ground first. This project evolved from the Weber Stream Restoration Initiative (www.lakesuperiorstreams.org/weber) and

is a collaboration among NRRI, S. St. Louis SWCD, Duluth, MN Sea Grant, UMD geology, and MN PCA. Tasks: 1)

remediation/restoration of sediment sources (eroding banks, failing bridges and culverts, gullies/washouts); 2)

revegetation/reforestation of disturbed shorelines; 3) tools for rural stormwater runoff and erosion reduction (model land

use/stormwater planning tool for township landowners and development of ditch maintenance manual with training

workshops; 4) outreach and education; 5) assessment of activities.

Trees were planted and a GIS database created for tracking re-vegetation efforts. The prototype landowner stormwater

planning tool is being linked to St. Louis County parcel data, and new remote sensing and LiDAR topography data. A

consultant was hired to develop the ditch design/operation manual. Terrestrial laser scanning was completed and bluff

erosion & deposition calculations in progress. NRRI signed a data sharing agreement with St. Louis County to create a

spatial database engine to link current parcel/ownership data to an online NRRI ArcGIS sessions focused on stormwater

management. Fish, bug, algae, and habitat data are being analyzed from 2005-2012 and an interactive map developed for

ease of data access. Continued stormwater runoff/erosion control information was disseminated via the LSS website.

1. Revegetation: ~ 2800 trees were planted in stream riparian zones; 2. Model Land Use/ Stormwater Planning Tool is now

online using a new (beta tested) stormwater calculator developed by MPCA; 3. The road ditch design and maintenance

manual is in development by a consultant (Fortin); 4. An Amity Watershed Assessment Data Mapper was created for the

three Amity synoptic stream surveys and for locating other BMPs and various study sites; 5. Real-time water quality

monitoring instruments were operated at lower Amity, redesign of the restoration section was finished, and a web section for

information about the 2012 Solstice flood was created.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Richard Axler

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3013-10428-00026890139,884MN Pollution Control Agency 06/30/2011 09/30/2014

3013-10424-0002688894,569MN Pollution Control Agency 06/30/2011 09/30/2014

3013-10423-00018878193,454MN Pollution Control Agency 06/30/2011 09/30/2014

$427,907Total

88

Amity Restoration Assessment: Water Quality, Fish, Bugs, People


Two major Amity Creek watershed restoration projects were completed in 2009, and approximately twelve related activities

are funded for 2011-2013. In this project, water quality, flow, stream bugs and fish (upstream/downstream and pre- and post-

construction) will be assessed to evaluate the performance and cost-effectiveness of the restorations and disseminate this

essential information via www.lakesuperiorstreams.org. Although this project specifically covers the Amity Creek

watershed, it is relevant to all Lake Superior watersheds in the Minnesota Lake Superior Coastal Program management

boundary.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

In 2005 the Weber Stream Restoration Initiative, via private endowments created a partnership of UMD scientists and

extension educators, and local, state, and federal agencies to restore and protect Lake Superior basin trout streams

(lakesuperiorstreams.org/weber). It features; 1) a demonstration project targeting turbidity/sediment impaired Amity Creek

watershed for multiple restoration activities; 2) map landscape stressors to highlight areas of higher erosion risk; 3) use real-

time data and on-line interactive visualization tools to inform and educate a broad audience; 4) disseminate technical and

non-technical information from the project and related activities via the website. This project funded 2012 water quality,

bug, fish, and habitat assessment activities coordinated with the Great Lakes Reconstruction Initiative project to assess

efficacy of the suite of restoration projects.

Lab analyses from all 2012 surveys were completed and data posted on the web. New website sections are being

developed: 1) a new Amity Restoration web section featuring Amity and other regional watershed restoration projects in the

Superior basin; 2) a new DataViewer to allow for stream to stream and multiple-year comparisons; 3) new BMP information

and training opportunities via the WHAT'S NEW section; a new Solstice Flood section as a library for agency and media

flood related information.

The Amity Creek flow gaging station and automated water quality monitoring sensors were operated and data uploaded to

website through June 2013. Instrumentation damaged by the Solstice 2012 Flood was replaced in the spring (via City of

Duluth FEMA award). Remaining project tasks were completed in June 2013 and the final report is being written. A

manuscript submitted to the Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) that describes how our real-

time automated stream water quality sets from 2002 -2010 can be used to estimate annual, storm event, and spring runoff

loading rates for suspended sediment and total phosphorus has been accepted for publication (Ruzycki et al. in press).

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3013-10423-0002159364,435MN DNR (USDOC NOAA Prime) 09/14/2011 06/30/2013

$64,435Total

89

Ecological Design for the St. Louis River Area of Concern


To develop an ecological design for restoring the Fish and Wildlife Service`s 40th Avenue West and 21st Avenue West

projects in Duluth, Minnesota.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The lower 21 miles of the St. Louis River, the largest U.S. tributary to Lake Superior, form the 4856 ha St. Louis River

estuary. Despite the effects of more than 100 years of industrialized and urban development as a major Great Lakes port, the

estuary remains the most significant source of biological productivity for western Lake Superior, and provides important

wetland, sand beach, forested, and aquatic habitat types for a wide variety of fish and wildlife communities.

The St. Louis River Alliance Habitat Plan identified several sites within the area of concern with significant habitat

limitations. The 40th Avenue West site was identified by a focus group within the SLRA Habitat workgroup as a priority for

a remediation-to-restoration project.

NRRI scientists are working with the habitat workgroup to develop an 'ecological design' that will be used to develop

remediation and restoration plans for the 40th Avenue West site.

Aquatic vegetation models were completed and applied to the remediation scenarios developed by the habitat committee of

the St. Louis River Alliance. Maps and summary data were delivered and are under consideration by the committee.

We acquired and processed wind energy and substrate data for the 21st Avenue West site, and are in the initial phases of

modeling aquatic vegetation at that site.

We completed the vegetation modeling and have simulated the effects of five restoration scenarios on vegetation,

macroinvertebrates and birds.

The initial ecological design scenario runs were completed and results presented to the St. Louis River Area of Concern

(AOC)Coordinators. The AOC coordinators developed a final "preferred design" scenario that was then simulated and used

to create a final report and recommendations for remediation of the 21st Avenue West site.

The design scenarios provide guidance toward understanding how plant and animal communities might change with the

changes to bathymetry, expansion of existing shoreland, and the creation of islands and additional shallow habitat to

promote aquatic vegetation and reduce wind energy. The most pronounced effects are predicted to result from scenarios that

create new shallow and intermediate depth habitat, especially when this can be done in areas provided protection from wave

and wind energy. These areas would, in turn, support development of emergent marsh and floating leaf plant communities.

Shallow and, ideally, low energy environments provide increased habitat for macroinvertebrates, wetland-affiliated fish and

birds – effects that would be further amplified by the trophic relationships among these communities.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Lucinda Johnson

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10426-00019490143,980USDI Fish and Wildlife Service 08/01/2010 06/30/2012

3002-10424-00025375194,586USDI Fish & Wildlife 08/04/2011 06/30/2013

$338,566Total

90

Event-based Stream Sampling in Northeastern Minnesota


Determine pollutant concentrations and annual loads of nutrients and suspended sediments by intensively sampling streams

during different hydrologic regimes (base flow, storm events, spring runoff).

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's Major Watershed Load Monitoring Program requested assistance from local

partners to collect samples and field data at designated stream monitoring sites for the purpose of assessing water quality

and calculating annual pollutant loads. This project will generate water quality data for ten stream locations MPCA

designated for their 2012 and 2013 open-water sampling seasons (eight by NRRI-UMD and two via subcontract to the

North St. Louis Soil and Water Conservation District). The overall project goal is to collect event-based physical and

chemical data sets for ten agency-prioritized stream sampling sites in northeast Minnesota for calculating pollutant loads

and for incorporation into the overall state database for Minnesota Pollution Control Agency assessment purposes.

Field personnel training was done by Minnesota Pollution Control Agency event-based stream sampling staff (coordinated

by Stacia Grayson)in sampling procedures and the quality assurance project plan developed by NRRI.

Sampling occurred throughout spring and summer. Water samples have been analyzed for depth, temperature, dissolved

oxygen, specific electrical conductivity, pH, and secchi tube depth; and in the Lab for TSS, TSVS, lab turbidity, TP, OP,

TKN, NO3/NO2-N.

We met with MPCA staff in early March 2013 to review proposed changes to the program and to provide input.

Sampling is ongoing, with samples collected every three weeks during base flow conditions. Field measures of depth,

temperature, dissolved oxygen, specific electrical conductivity, pH, and secchi tube depth are taken. Water samples are

being analyzed in the Central Analytical Lab for TSS, TSVS, lab turbidity, TP, OP, TKN, NO3/NO2-N. Results are

submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency on a regular basis.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________



$148,869Total

91

GLEI II - Indicator Testing and Refinement


The GLEI-II project will focus on wetland near shore conditions of the Great Lakes, and consist of five tasks: 1) Refine

coastal ecosystem indicators from previous monitoring programs through calibration against updated landscape/land use

information within the entire Great Lakes basin, 2) test the temporal and geographic integrity of existing Great Lakes

indicators. Determine scores for a suite of metrics from sites not sampled previously, and test the applicability of metrics

across the Great Lakes basin, including Canada, 3) test and compare analytical techniques to cross-calibrate indicators from

concurrent monitoring programs, 4) evaluate indicators for cost-effectiveness, 5) implement a data collection, analysis, and

reporting system for recommended indicators as well as a web-based reporting system that integrates landscape/land use

information systems, and 6) create a map of baseline conditions for the Great Lakes basin based on historical and current

monitoring information.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

A comprehensive basin-scale suite of biological, chemical, and habitat indicators throughout the Great Lakes ecosystems,

along with monitoring plans for the long-term measurement, will provide valuable information on Great Lakes. Better

understanding the condition of this vast resource is vital to the parties charged with administering the agreement.

Statistical analysis of structural equation modeling (SEM) using GLEI I dataset was initiated. The structure of models was

designed in the impact direction from the first group of land impacts (land use, disturbance, shoreline activities, agriculture

and development, water/sediment) to the intermediate groups of water quality and habitat, and finally to macroinvertebrates.

Preliminary analysis focused on macroinvertebrates traits as response variables. Dominant factors from principal component

analysis of each group were employed in the model development. Seven SEM models have been successfully constructed.

Structural equation models have been tested for macroinvertebrate richness and relative abundance of 12 traits using coastal

disturbance, adjacent watershed characteristics as indirect predictors and using water quality and aquatic plant coverage as

direct predictors. At end, total 15 models were successfully developed for lower taxonomic unit richness and relative

abundance of three traits (climbers, shredders, sprawlers) for large-scale area and ecoprovince based regions. The effects of

environmental factors in models were compared to determine the key variable and pathway to influence wetland

macroinvertebrate communities. Modeling results have been used to draft a manuscript, which is under co-authors

reviewing.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Gerald Niemi

Richard Axler

Lucinda Johnson

Terry Brown

Valerie Brady

Euan Reavie

Meijun Cai

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10426-000188421,625,769Environmental Protection Agency 08/01/2010 01/31/2014

$1,625,769Total

92

Great Lakes Beach Information Communication System


To develop real-world and on-line warning systems to alert beachgoers to real-time rip current conditions.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Great Lakes beach users have access to an unprecedented amount of data about beaches, including bacteria monitoring,

harmful algal blooms, weather, and water forecasts. All of these pieces of information can help beach users decide if today

is the right day to go to the beach, but nowhere is it synthesized in one place. This project will bring these disparate sources

of information together into a single 'beach report.' By assembling all relevant beach information and providing the data in

multiple formats that are increasingly accessible through wireless technologies, beach users will have a one-stop shop for

finding out critical beach information on the go. This increased convenience will result in fewer beach users swimming

during unsafe conditions, and greater awareness of beach safety issues.

We developed a model beach report system capable of synthesizing various sources of digital information from a single

beach into a single report, and automatically generating summary notices for distribution to beach users through a variety of

formats. The parkpointbeach.org website reports rip current, temperature and other key information; it also links to a local

webcam on Park Point to show current conditions. The system continuously monitors the National Weather Service and

responds when there is a change in rip current forecasts.

The ParkPointBeach.org website is in its second summer, and was adapted for sites in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and South

Haven, Michigan.

A key advance of this year was the deployment of a real-time "splash zone" temperature data feed. This was a challenging

problem: "Hardwiring" of a temperature sensor to a source of power, the Internet, a data logger, and a telecommunication

modem was not possible due to electrical safety reasons, lack of Internet access, presumed power fluctuations, and lack of

funding for on-site staff. Volunteer monitoring was also found unreliable for getting up-to-date data. Relating surf zone

temperatures to Duluth Inlet sensor data from lakesuperiorstreams.org was confounded by river and seiche influences.

Pilot work in fall 2012 and summer 2013 by Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) in collaboration with City of

Duluth Parks & Recreation led to installation of an Omega OS137 non-contact Infrared Temperature Sensor/Transmitter on

the roof of the Park Point Beach House along with an independent webcam with data logged on a desktop computer with

modem to transmit data to the PPB server at NRRI. Results are promising but require comparison to actual water

temperature over a broad range of temperatures and wave heights that reflect conditions encountered during the PPB beach

season.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Jesse Schomberg

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10434-0001891536,585Sea Grant (EPA Prime) 08/01/2010 05/31/2014

$36,585Total

93

Great Lakes Biological Monitoring: Phytoplankton


The primary objectives of the Great Lakes phytoplankton program are to: 1) collect phytoplankton from the Great Lakes; 2)

identify and enumerate phytoplankton, maintaining quality assurance standards; 3) maintain a database of phytoplankton

data; 4) interpret phytoplankton data, including evaluation of long-term trends in phytoplankton and food web dynamics; 5)

dissemination of data and interpretations through reports, presentations, peer-reviewed journals and on the internet.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Phytoplankton are known to respond to stressors such as nutrient loading and invasive species. We will take a

comprehensive approach to GLNPO’s Biological Monitoring program for the Great Lakes using proven sampling and

evaluation techniques. New and long-term phytoplankton data will be used to track shifts in the offshore biological

community related to natural and anthropogenic influences.

The research will characterize and evaluate phytoplankton communities throughout the Great Lakes. Analyses of these data

in concord with long-term sampling data, and other project data (e.g., zooplankton, water quality) will provide

interpretations of stressor influences on lake biology. A database of detailed, quality-assured phytoplankton data will be

provided for contemporary and future evaluations of Great Lakes condition.

Sample preparation and analysis of 2012 and 2011 phytoplankton samples is ongoing.

The first version of the floral database is complete and will be delivered to the EPA shortly. This database is an integration

of images and species descriptions. Digital drawings, photographs and descriptions for over 1000 taxa have been compiled

from the historic literature.

Sediment core analyses continue for Lakes Erie, Michigan and Huron. These cores have been sectioned and are in

processing for various indicators (diatoms, metals, organic/inorganic content, etc.). We anticipate coring of Lake Ontario in

the 2013 sampling season.

Sample preparation and analysis of 2012 and 2013 phytoplankton samples is ongoing.

Establishment of non-native dreissenids and changing water quality has impacted the primary producers of the Great Lakes.

Our sampling clearly shows a decrease in algae, with the exception of Lake Erie which shows significant blooms of diatoms

in the spring and blue-green algae in the summer.

The Great Lakes floral database is complete and has been delivered to the EPA. This database is an integration of images

and species descriptions. Digital drawings, photographs and descriptions for over 1000 taxa.

Paleolimnology: Sediment core analyses continue. These cores have been sectioned and are in processing for various

indicators (diatoms, metals, organic and inorganic content, etc.).

__________________________________________________________________________


Principal Investigator(s)Euan Reavie

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1628-189-6315-001,000,000Environmental Protection Agency 03/01/2007 04/30/2013

3006-10425-0003055340,000Northeast Midwest Institute 03/01/2012 12/31/2013

3002-10425-000235021,296,105Environmental Protection Agency 07/01/2011 06/30/2016

$2,336,105Total

94

Great Lakes Coastal Database and Classification Framework


To develop a habitat classification system that focuses on the nearshore and coastal systems of the Great Lakes to provide a

data framework that will guide future restoration and management objectives.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Great Lakes basin spans two nations, eight states, and two provinces. As a result, it is exceedingly difficult to

characterize and quantify stressors and physical characteristics across the entire Great Lakes basin. The spatial framework

will provide managers with the first consistent geographic framework that has an essential capability to link, map, integrate,

and track habitat classifications, assessments, indicator development, ecological forecasting, monitoring, and restoration

activities across the entire Great Lakes basin. The spatial framework will consist of inventory, assessment, and monitoring

data along with the underlying physical data covering the Great Lakes basin. The database will link features such as

wetlands, embayments, coastal watersheds, and rivermouths with terrestrial watershed and open water systems. Due to its

extensive work characterizing stressors for the Great Lakes Indicators Initiative, NRRI serves as an advisor to this project.

The project team assembled participants in Ann Arbor, MI on November 8 to discuss the underlying habitat classification

scheme that will be used for the framework. Progress has been achieved in mapping 'geoforms' within the lakes

(combination of relief and bathymetry).

A spatial "frame" consisting of 30x30 m pixels for the shoreline and watershed, and an 180m x 180 m frame encompassing

the open water of the Great Lakes has been created. Data from the US and CA has been identified to form the basis of the

underlying classification scheme. Subbasins for each Great Lake were also identified. Definitions of the habitat "zones"

has been finalized. Monthly meetings have been held to evaluate progress in compiling the spatial data layers and ancillary

biological, chemical, physical data that will be used to populate the database. The next step is a series of statistical analyses

to identify "homogeneous units" representing distinct areas within each habitat class

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Lucinda Johnson

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3006-10426-0002475919,563Univ of Michigan (Prime) Gr Lks Fishery 09/01/2011 05/01/2014

$19,563Total

95

Great Lakes Coastal Wetland Monitoring


To assess the biotic condition of all the major coastal wetlands of the Great Lakes, United States and Canadian shorelines.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

This project will assess the baseline biotic condition (health) of all the major coastal wetland complexes along all the coasts

of the Great Lakes. Crews around the Great Lakes are using birds, frogs, fish, aquatic invertebrates, aquatic macrophytes,

water quality and habitat to determine wetland condition. Duluth crews sample wetlands across Lake Superior, Green Bay,

and northern Lake Michigan. Wetland condition information will be used by state agencies, non-profits, and other groups to

aid in wetland restoration efforts and to find very good wetlands in need of protection.

The NRRI GIS lab created a site selection system that will be used by all collaborators across the Great Lakes to virtually

review and select sites appropriate for sampling in each year. There were about 1000 sites selected for the five years.

In the first two years, NRRI fish/invertebrate/veg crews visited about 50 sites, while bird/amphibian crews visited over 100

sites. In 2012, crews sampled several wetlands on Isle Royale, which was quite an adventure for the field personnel. The

database system that supports the entire project and holds and serves all of the data was built by the NRRI GIS laboratory.

Our database programmer, Dr. Terry Brown, is creating a web-based data portal that will be able to provide the data to

agencies who can use it to help protect and restore Great Lakes coastal wetlands, as well as track their condition over time.

Crews sampling all wetland biota (birds, amphibians, fish, macroinvertebrates, and wetland vegetation) spent the summer

sampling coastal wetlands from Green Bay to Thunder Bay. Crews sampled 25-35 wetlands, depending on which biota were

being sampled. Two Sites on the Apostle Islands were also sampled this year.

Work on the web-based data portal is well underway and should be unveiled this fall at a meeting with wetland managers

from around the Great Lakes. The early results indicate that wetland plants are highly affected by alterations to wetland

hydrology, which has happened quite a bit on lakes Erie and Ontario. Macroinvertebrates and fish seem to be more sensitive

to local conditions and stressors, resulting in wetlands with good indicator scores near wetlands with poorer scores.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Gerald Niemi

Richard Axler

Lucinda Johnson

Valerie Brady

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3014-10429-00023385532,018Central Michigan University (EPA Prime) 09/10/2010 08/31/2015

3014-10426-00023387425,959Central Michigan University(EPA Prime) 09/10/2010 08/31/2015

3014-10426-00018810190,372Central Michigan University (EPA Prime) 09/10/2010 08/31/2015

3014-10424-00023381161,099Central Michigan University(EPA Prime) 09/10/2010 08/31/2015

3014-10423-0002339071,854Central Michigan University (EPA Prime) 09/10/2010 08/31/2015

$1,381,302Total

96

Indicators of Agricultural Stressors in Coastal Waters of the Great Lakes


The overall goal of this project is to identify `topping points` at which effects of agricultural activities result in measurable

effects on water quality and biota in tributary streams to the Great Lakes. Such knowledge will assist managers and policy

makers in identifying appropriate actions to restore water quality in tributaries of the Great Lakes. This project is a

subcontract to a larger effort centered at Purdue University and University of Michigan. In this project, data from the Great

lakes Environmental Indicators project (GLEI) is being reanalyzed to assess specific responses of invertebrate and fish

communities to agricultural land use using structural equation modeling techniques. This technique identified direct and

indirect effects of land use and specifically agricultural activities on invertebrate and fish communities.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The development and dissemination of the land use and agricultural indicators will enable more effective protection and

management of key natural resources within the Great Lakes region by provide land use planners and natural resources

managers with relevant and timely information to aid in their decision making processes (from Purdue University,

http://prodgis.agriculture.purdue.edu/TPI_GL/). Through a collaborative effort between university and agency scientists, a

new suit of land use and agricultural indicators relating to water quality and ecosystem health within the Great Lakes region

are being developed. These indicators will provide insight into the stressors (e.g., impervious surfaces, habitat

fragmentation, pollutants) negatively affecting the water quality and natural resources within the Great Lakes, as well as

allow for the identification of 'hot-spots' or key locations where the presence of multiple stressors are greatly impacting

ecosystem health.

Structural equation models have been developed for invertebrate communities. These models show that it is necessary to

consider the location in the basin when assessing impacts of land use on aquatic biota. In particular, results show that

development has a greater impact than agriculture on the number of taxa at a site, and local disturbances are more influential

than landscape level disturbances.

To test the effects of agricultural land application on wetland macroinvertebrates, GLEI I dataset was used to develop casual

models using structural equation modeling (SEM) statistical method. In the model network, agriculture worked on wetland

macroinvertebrates through the pathway of water quality and aquatic vegetation coverage. Total 15 SE models have been

developed for lower taxonomic unit richness and relative abundance of climbers, shredders and sprawler for large-scale area

and ecoprovince based regions. Overall agriculture can increase the relative abundance in the northern ecoprovince but

reduced them in southern area. Modeling results have been used to draft a manuscript, which is under co-authors reviewing.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3014-10426-0002666929,592Univ of Illinois (USDOC Prime) 09/01/2011 07/01/2013

$29,592Total

97

Lake of the Woods Paleolimnology Assessment


Lake of the Woods has been placed on Minnesota`s impaired list for nutrients and eutrophication indicators, so the future of

the lake has become a high profile concern for the Ontario and Minnesota governments and the lake`s diverse group of

stakeholders. Research recommendations and data gaps suggested that improved coordination of monitoring efforts and the

construction of a long-term ecological reconstruction for the lake were logical steps in management of the resource. NRRI`s

objective in this investigation is to collect sediment cores and use archived materials to provide long-term trends and

trajectories of lake conditions for use in resource management.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Lake of the Woods has been placed on Minnesota`s impaired list for nutrients and eutrophication indicators, so the future of

the lake has become a high profile concern for the Ontario and Minnesota governments and the lake`s diverse group of

stakeholders. Research recommendations and data gaps suggested that improved coordination of monitoring efforts and the

construction of a long-term ecological reconstruction for the lake were logical steps in management of the resource. NRRI`s

objective in this investigation is to collect sediment cores and use archived materials to provide long-term trends and

trajectories of lake conditions for use in resource management.

Sedimentary sample analysis is ongoing. Isotopic analyses indicate that all cores contain reliable profiles for

paleolimnological analysis.

So far biological stratigraphic data show a gradual, long-term change due to human activities in the lake catchment. It is too

early to confirm impacts on the lake, but we anticipate a robust characterization of lake history.

Sedimentary sample analysis is complete and data are being compiled for analysis. Stratigraphic data show a gradual, long-

term change due to human activities in the lake catchment. Preliminary data indicate increasing productivity in Lake Of the

Woods despite a known decline in nutrient loading to the lake. A research workshop in September 2013 in Ely will evaluate

species shifts and long-term trends in an effort to determine mechanisms of water quality degradation.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________



$111,546Total

98

Landscape Metrics for Coastal Wetland Integrity Indices


To test existing landscape indicators of coastal marsh integrity that can be incorporated into a coastal wetland monitoring

program. Using the same set of coastal marshes selected for the USGS project we will 1) evaluate the ability of individual

landscape indicators to discriminate between reference, disturbed, and managed sites, and 2) analyze redundancy among

landscape indicators and between landscape and site specific indicators.

Because funds for monitoring are often tight, it is advantageous to maximize the amount of information relative sampling

costs in a monitoring program. For example, it would not be wise to monitor more than one variable that conveyed the same

information. Thus, one part of developing a multi-metric assessment is to evaluate redundancy among indicators. If there are

indicators that are highly redundant, then the variable that is more expensive to monitor or is less useful may be eliminated

from consideration.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The National Wildlife Refuge System includes 161 coastal refuges on 1,045,925 acres of coastal marsh. The majority of

these marshes have experienced some form of anthropogenic alteration such as oil spills, chemical mosquito control,

drainage for mosquito control, salt hay farming, introduction of invasive species, restricted tidal flow, road construction, or

channelization. These alterations impact both the intrinsic value of coastal marshes as well as the quality of marsh habitat

for the unique wildlife they support.

Tools for the assessment of ecological condition remain underdeveloped for these ecosystems. Such tools are critically

needed to guide decisions regarding protection, management, and restoration. The most meaningful and useful assessments

of ecosystem condition are based on reliable indicators of ecosystem integrity that are integrative across several spatial

scales and levels of biological and environmental organization.

Neckles et al. (2008) listed >50 measurable attributes for coastal marshes that could serve as indicators for coastal marsh

condition. USGS is evaluating the response of candidate indicators within coastal marshes on 15 National Wildlife Refuges

throughout the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the U.S. In conjunction with site specific indicators, there is a need to evaluate

landscape indicators for this same set of coastal marshes.

Wetland monitoring was conducted in 13 National Wildlife Refuges, with sampling in reference, disturbed, and managed

areas. Landscape data and metrics were acquired or derived across the region. Each was evaluated for redundancy and

ability to discriminate across disturbance status.

Landscape metrics were incorporated into analyses and reported for coastal marshes in 15 National Wildlife Refuges.

Comparisons of metrics across sites and disturbance status are completed with recommendations in development.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Jennifer Olker

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10426-0001266093,052USDI US Geological Survey 08/01/2009 06/30/2013

$93,052Total

99

North Shore Superior Lake and Stream Water Assessment


To collect field and water chemistry data from eight Northern Lakes and Forest (NLF) Ecoregion lakes and three NLF

streams during May â€“ September in 2013-14 for the purpose of determining surface water quality.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Clean Water Legacy Act Surface Water Assessment (SWA) Grant Program created funding for local organizations,

universities and citizen volunteers to help MPCA assess the condition of Minnesota's streams and lakes. Water quality,

biological, and habitat data are critical for identifying status and trends that may reflect short and long-term trends in

response to impacts at local, regional, and global scales such as urbanization, agriculture and forestry practices, invasive

species introductions, atmospheric deposition, and climate change. NRRI will collect lake and stream data in NE

Minnesota's NLF Ecoregion focused on northern Lake Superior Basin, and targeted by the MPCA for the NLF for 2013-14.

The project began in May 2013.

Field data and water sample collection began in May 2013 and will continue through September and analysis of water

chemistry and chlorophyll will continue though mid-October.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Elaine Ruzycki


$73,330Total

100

Northshore Superior Periphyton Surveillance


1) Establish baseline (i.e. benchmark) conditions for attached algae along the rocky North Shore Lake Superior ``splash

zone`` by establishing a sampling protocol, determining areal periphyton biomass and species composition, and providing

archival algal material for other scientists interested in the issue (i.e. from EPA-Mid Continent Ecology Lab, the USGS,

NRRI, and U. Wisconsin, Oshkosh [Dr. R. Pillsbury]); 2)Determine if there is a relationship between periphyton

distribution (i.e. biomass) and stormwater outfalls, illicit wastewater discharge, ground water seepage, and various stressor

indices of land use along the MN Lake Superior shoreline that were developed at NRRI via the Great Lakes Environmental

Indicator (GLEI) projects.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

In large deep, oligotrophic lakes, the shallow nearshore waters -especially nutrient-poor environments such as Lake

Superior- are very sensitive to perturbations occurring as shorelines are developed.

Most visitor experiences in Lake Superior occur close to or within the nearshore environment and conditions can directly

influence public perception of lake conditions. Periphyton (attached algae) growing within the eulittoral or splash-zone can

play an important role in the aesthetic, beneficial use of the shoreline. The rapid growth ability of eulittoral periphyton in

response to nutrient inputs has been shown to be of particular value in monitoring this community as an indicator of

localized differences in nutrient loading.

The presence of periphyton along the lakeshore has been linked to lakeshore development in many oligotrophic lakes

including Lake Tahoe, CA/NV, Lakes Chelan and Crescent, WA, Priest Lake and Lake Pend Orielle, ID, and lakes of the

Laurentian region of Quebec. Periphyton is a useful indicator because this algal community integrates environmental

conditions over long periods of time and is relatively easy to collect and measures of biomass are inexpensive to analyze.

The Great Lakes Environmental Indicators project showed strong links between nearshore conditions and adjacent

watershed variables across the entire Great Lakes basin. To our knowledge no comprehensive survey of eulittoral

periphyton in Lake Superior has occurred since the early 1970's.

Site selection started in the fall of 2012 and was based on accessibility, substrate type; with interfluve zones between stream

mouths that represent a range of stressor gradient scores selected. We then overlaid the historical periphyton sampling

locations from 1969-1971.

The Duluth shoreline was assessed in early October 2012. Photos, GPS coordinates and water samples were collected from

approximately 50 sites that could potentially deliver stormwater into Lake Superior.

Seventeen survey sites between the Duluth Arial Lift Bridge and Knife River (~20 miles of shoreline) were sampled from

June through August 2013. Replicate samples were collected from four randomly chosen boulders or bedrock outcrops

along a 20 m transect. Samples were processed for areal biomass, percent organic matter and chlorophyll. Composite

samples were preserved for algal community analyses. Data analysis is on-going.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Elaine Ruzycki

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3013-10423-0002811350,535MN`s Lake Superior Coastal (USDOC

Prime)

08/28/2012 12/31/2013

$50,535Total

101

Paleolimnology Workplan: Building a Long-term Water Quality Record for the White

Iron Chain of Lakes


The White Iron Chain of Lakes comprises the lower portion of the Kawishiwi watershed, draining an area of 1,200 square

miles of northern Minnesota’s Rainy River basin. Water quality in the White Iron Chain of Lakes has been subject to human-

induced environmental changes since settlement of the region approximately 150 years ago. By describing in detail impacts

caused by past environmental insults, we may be able to predict the impacts of future development scenarios. Our

paleolimnological assessment will offer pre-settlement baselines, environmental trends, and the timing and magnitude of

changes related to human activities. These evaluations will provide important background and remedial information.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The White Iron Chain of Lakes comprises the lower portion of the Kawishiwi Watershed, draining an area of 1,200 square

miles of northern Minnesota’s Rainy River basin. Water quality in the WICOL has been subject to human-induced

environmental changes since settlement of the region approximately 150 years ago. By describing in detail impacts caused

by past environmental insults, we may be able to predict the impacts of future development scenarios. Our

paleolimnological assessment will offer pre-settlement baselines, environmental trends, and the timing and magnitude of

changes related to human activities. These evaluations will provide important background and remedial information.

Initial results from paleolimnological analyses indicate that gradual changes have occurred in these lakes in response to

human activities such as deforestation (and recovery), shoreline development and changes in nutrient flux. These results

suggest that the major influence on lake characteristics has been damming, which changed the hydrology. A reduction in

biodiversity in lake primary producers suggests some eutrophication, but further data developments are required for more

detailed conclusions. We anticipate a more complete story for the WICOL lakes later in 2013.

Eutrophication apparently occurred following Euro-American settlement, particularly in White Iron Lake, but reconstructed

phosphorus trends indicate more recent nutrient reductions. Pollen data track the decrease in pine abundance in the region

and the rise of birch. Sedimentary metals largely reflect physical changes in the system, such as a change in sediment

deposition regimes resulting from damming. Recent increases in metals are probably a result of increasing accumulation of

soil and bedrock materials, a trend that is supported by increasing accumulation rates of overall organic and inorganic

material. These recent increases in the last 30-40 years, which include increased algal deposition in Birch, Farm and Fall

lakes, are not well explained at this time, but may be due to shifting water quality unrelated to phosphorus and possibly

hydrological changes.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3015-10425-0002401785,000White Iron Chain of Lakes Association 09/15/2011 06/30/2013

$85,000Total

102

Prioritizing Wetland Restoration for Water Quality and Habitat Improvement


To prioritize wetland restoration to select sites that will most likely result in high quality wetlands which will be sustainable

in the future and second, to prioritize wetland restoration that will improve water quality and habitat.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Minnesota has over nine million acres of wetlands that provide significant tourist dollars through duck hunting, birding and

fishing and also provide untallied benefits through water quality, flood control and wildlife habitat. Competing interests

including agriculture, commercial, and residential development have reduced pre-settlement wetland area by 52%.

We are developing a map-based wetland prioritization decision web tool for Minnesota that will accommodate a variety of

management restoration objectives including: prioritizing wetland restorations for improved water quality and/or habitat and

also for restorations that will be sustainable far into the future. The tool will also identify areas most in need of protection.

A restorable wetlands inventory (RWI) for Minnesota was created using a compound topographic index (CTI) derived from

a digital elevation model (DEM) along with soil and wetland data.

The prioritization tool was designed using Python programming language with a base layer of all the possible restorable

wetlands derived from soils and elevation data, three thematic decision layers created from readily available GIS data, and

a final output modifier comprised of available environmental data for the desired region. For the decision layers, stress

reflects anthropogenic activities that negatively influence water quality and habitat, viability ranks areas for their likelihood

of supporting high functioning sustainable wetlands into the future, and benefits identify locations where wetland restoration

could reduce nutrients or enhance wildlife habitat. Each of the tool layers were developed from a series of GIS data layers.

A panel of wetland experts consisting of university, state, and federal officials convened in November 2012 to assist with

determining the relative importance (weighting) of the GIS inputs for each decision layer.

The weighted GIS inputs were imported into the model decision layers. A web-based user interface was developed.

In May 2013, a workshop was held for potential end users to beta-test both the web interface and the prioritization tool.

Their recommendations were incorporated into the current tool.

Two potential methods of incorporating LiDAR DEM data into the model were also tested including delineating gullies for

predicting erosion rates and assessing how much RWI predictions improved using higher resolution DEMs.

Future additions to the tool include 1) refining tool decision layers with recently completed or refined data layers, 2)

addressing how landscape connectivity and spatial position of natural and anthropogenic land covers affect wetlands, and 3)

adding additional data layers and web links to further assist end users.

__________________________________________________________________________



Terry Brown

Valerie Brady

Jeremy Erickson


$350,000Total

103

Research Development Testing and Evaluation Facility for Ballast Treatment in the

Great Lakes Region


The Great Ships Initiative is a innovative collaboration whose objective is to end the problem of ship-mediated invasive

species in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway System, including through independent research and demonstration of

environmental technology, financial incentives and consistent basin-wide harbor monitoring. NRRI`s task in this effort is to

develop, test and apply methods to evaluate the effectiveness of candidate treatments systems in their ability to exterminate

algae and protozoans.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The near-term objective of the Great Ships Initiative is to significantly accelerate research, development and implementation

of effective ballast treatment systems for ships that visit the Great Lakes from overseas. To that end, the Initiative has

established research capabilities at three scales—bench, land-based, and shipboard. Each scale is dedicated to addressing

specific evaluation objectives, with protocols as consistent with the International Maritime Organization and federal

requirements as practicable.

NRRI`s role in the Initiative is to test candidate ballast water systems to ensure they are able to meet the International

Maritime Organization`s criteria for mortality of the microorganisms carried in ballast water.

Efforts for 2013 are under way, starting with a risk-release workshop in Washington DC in April.

This year we will be testing several candidate treatment systems for consideration as a ship-board treatment alternative.

These tests involve ship-board testing and land-based assessment at the facility in Superior WI.

A new publication summarizes GSI work that combined ballast water treatment with ballast water exchange at sea:

Briski, E., L.E. Allinger, M. Balcer, A. Cangelosi, L. Fanberg, T.P. Markee, N. Mays, C.N. Polkinghorne, K.R. Prihoda,

E.D. Reavie, D.H. Regan, D. Reid, H.J. Saillard, T. Schwerdt, H. Schaefer, M. TenEyck, C.J. Wiley, S.A. Bailey 2013. A

multi-dimensional approach to invasive species prevention. Environmental Science and Technology (in press).

Efforts for 2013 continue. We have been testing several alternative treatment systems for consideration as ship-board

treatments. These tests involve ship-board testing and land-based assessment at the facility in Superior WI and at ship

mooring locations around the Great Lakes.

New efforts provide efficacy reports for treatments that include sodium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, yeast, chloride and

sonic energy. Several new technical reports summarize activities and findings: www.greatshipsinitiative.org

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1673-189-6311-0030,000University of Wisconsin Superior 01/22/2007 12/31/2007

1673-189-6323-0017,497University of Wisconsin Superior 12/01/2007 05/31/2008

623,769Northeast Midwest Institute 06/01/2008 04/30/2015

$671,266Total

104

Stressor Gradients and Spatial Narratives of the St. Louis River Estuary


Provide an assessment of reference and at-risk aquatic habitats in the St. Louis River watershed and estuary to guide future

monitoring, restoration, remediation, land use planning, along with community awareness, and stewardship.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The St. Louis River estuary, an EPA area of concern and soon to become Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve, is

a complex mosaic of high quality plant, animal, and aquatic habitat intermingled with areas of heavy industrial use,

contaminated sediments, and effluents from an urban landscape. Communities surrounding the estuary are actively

developing land use plans that will set the course for their future environmental and socioeconomic health, and it is

imperative that local decision makers have access to data, tools and technologies that allow them to make the best decisions

for their communities.

Spatial narratives for the St. Louis River estuary were captured through five vignettes of key activities important to the area:

fishing, shipping, wild ricing, recreation, and community; and through perspectives of local people who told their stories

about places and experiences related to these activities. We share these stories through narrative, photos, audio, and a deep

map.

Water Resources Science student Will Bartsch successfully defended his master of science thesis, which studied variation in

tributary and nearshore water quality to watershed-based stressors across the estuary. Key findings: there is a strong chloride

signal related to human activity; and geomorphic variability between the Minnesota and Wisconsin sides of the estuary

must be taken into consideration to quantify stressor effects.

We created a "Science in Detail" section of the website that describes results from the water quality,macroinvertebrate, and

plant community data sites along the anthropogenic stressor gradient. By selecting sites along the human stressor gradient,

we quantified how individual streams contribute to the overall health of the estuary.

We developed two kinds of GeoQuests. The first is based on the popular sport of Geocaching, which involves using Global

Positioning System (GPS) devices to find hidden containers. We created three sleuthing-based caches that involve science-

based activities such as collecting stream and lake water quality data to add to our data library. A geocache placed in

Chamber's Grove has had 25 logged finds, the most recent on 8/19/2013.

The second type of GeoQuest is based on Augmented Reality players use their mobile phones to interact with virtual

characters located throughout the estuary, viewing videos, text, or pictures triggered by the phone's built in GPS system.

Each of these quests has a theme and a mission tied to the stories and science of the estuary.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Richard Axler

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1000-10424-20857-000169110,311MN Sea Grant 02/01/2010 03/31/2013

$110,311Total

105

SWAG Superior Basin Lakes


This project will generate physical and chemical water quality information for three lakes that the Minnesota Pollution

Control Agency has included in their list of `targeted lakes` for assessment in the 2011 and 2012 field seasons. NRRI`s

Center for Water and the Environment has a long-term interest in identifying status and trends that may reflect short and

long-term trends in response to impacts at local, regional, and global scales such as urbanization, agriculture and forestry

practices, invasive species introductions, atmospheric deposition, and climate change.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The Clean Water Legacy Act Surface Water Assessment Grant Program has created funding for local organizations,

universities and citizen volunteers to help the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency assess the condition of Minnesota's

streams and lakes. Water quality, biological, and habitat data are critical for identifying status and trends that may reflect

short and long-term trends in response to impacts at local, regional, and global scales such as urbanization, agriculture and

forestry practices, invasive species introductions, atmospheric deposition, and climate change. Ideally, since field

collections are costly, sampling designs and types of assessment data are best selected by considering multiple benefits and

efficiencies. NRRI was funded to collect seasonal limnological data from three Superior basin lakes in 2011 and 2012.

Lakes were sampled from May-September 2012 and data were submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency via

their electronic data access system.

This project has now been completed.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


Elaine Ruzycki


$16,283Total

106

Gonadal Deformities in Smallmouth Bass as Indicators of Endocrine Disruption in the

St. Louis River Estuary


Document the occurrence and prevalence of testicular oocytes and other altered gonadal morphology in smallmouth bass

generally, specifically from the St. Louis River estuary. These goals will be accomplished using two research components:

1) a histological analysis of gonadal tissue from smallmouth bass collected in field surveys of sites in the Lake Superior

watershed and northern Minnesota; and 2) laboratory studies to document early gonadal development in smallmouth bass in

the presence and absence of a controlled exposure to a known estrogen.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Endocrine active chemicals (EACs) are an emerging concern in many natural waters, including the St. Louis River, its

estuary, and Lake Superior. Synthetic estrogens such as one which originates from oral contraceptives, are present in U.S.

waters receiving municipal wastewater effluent in the range of 73 - 831 ng/L, where they are considered the primary

contaminant contributing to estrogenic activity. Evidence for detrimental effects of EAC activity on fish exposed to these

low concentrations has been observed in both field and laboratory studies, and includes biochemical indicators of exposure

(e.g., vitellogenin [egg yolk protein] in male fish), and histological markers, such as testicular oocytes in wild fish. While

such reports foster concern in both public and scientific circles, our ability to gather data and make observations has often

outpaced our ability to place them in physiological and ecological context, which takes into account the background

prevalence of these effects in fish from relatively unimpacted areas. This project focuses on the background occurrence of

one potential biomarker of endocrine disruption in smallmouth bass, the presence of oocytes in testicular tissue, and

evaluates the likelihood that any elevated prevalence of this deformity could be caused by exposure to synthetic estrogen

during early life stages.

Field collection started in 2012, when we collected a total of 176 smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) from the St.

Louis River estuary and four inland lakes.

To date, we have collected 292 male smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) from the St. Louis River Estuary and 7

inland lakes, including two 'impacted' inland lakes and 5 'reference' inland lakes. Collected fish were dissected, gender

identified, and gonads were removed, preserved, and are currently being evaluated for presence and abundance of testicular

ooctyes. Testicular ooctyes have been found in multiple specimens, with varying prevalence across the sites sampled.

Additional sampling and severity ranking are underway.

Laboratory exposure experiments of early life-stage smallmouth bass to -ethinyl-estradiol were initiated in early

summer 2013. These exposures are designed to describe the timing of development of smallmouth bass gonads under

controlled conditions and determine the developmental stage(s) at which TOs may be induced by xenoestrogens in

smallmouth bass.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________

Principal Investigator(s)Pat Schoff

Jennifer Olker

AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 1000-10426-20857-00016949,925Minnesota Sea Grant 07/01/2012 06/30/2014

$49,925Total

107

Managing the Nations Fish Habitat at Multiple Spatial Scales


1) To refine empirical and mechanistic models for predicting extent of cold water fish habitat under current land use and

climate regimes. Predict oxythermal habitat for coldwater fish species using an empirical model incorporating existing land

use, lake morphometry, and climate data.

2) Predict future extents of cold water fish habitat in lakes of the Glacial Lakes region under future climate and land use

scenarios. Predict future oxythermal habitat in lakes under changing land use and climate for a large set of regional

coldwater lakes using empirical models. Predict future oxythermal habitat for individual lakes under changing land use and

climate for distinct lake classes and/or geographic regions using a mechanistic model.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

Coldwater fish communities are especially vulnerable to eutrophication and the effects of climate change. Climate warming

has the potential to reduce coldwater fish habitat by direct warming and increased hypolimnetic oxygen depletion. Deep

lakes with large, oxygenated hypolimnions may represent important sanctuaries for coldwater species such as cisco.

Projected range reductions for cisco and other coldwater species would allow for the identification of high priority refuge

lakes. Once identified, lake watershed protection efforts could be directed at refuge lakes to prevent further anthropogenic

impacts.

A sensitivity analysis was performed to assess which lakes experience the greatest changes for spatially uniform change in

land use and air temperature. Statistical methods for summarizing and generalizing the results are being developed,

including the selection of a spatial scale for summarizing individual lake results and identifying the most vulnerable regions

and types of coldwater lakes.

The deliverables for the project include a manuscript, data tables, and maps. A manuscript is currently being finalized for

submission, describing the phosphorus loading model development, integration with the MN DNR oxythermal habitat

model, and future coldwater fish habitat projections. The manuscript will be submitted to the Canadian Journal of Fisheries

and Aquatic Sciences. The process of creating data tables and maps of projected coldwater habitat has begun. The tables

and maps, and associated metadata, will include lake-level projections and summaries by ecoregion of future in-lake

phosphorus concentrations and fish habitat scores. These products will be published on the USGS project web site.

Several technical tasks are also ongoing. The fish habitat projections for the baseline set of 260 coldwater lakes in

Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan are currently being expanded to a set of 895 coldwater lakes in the three state region.

Climate projections from an ensemble of statistically-downscaled climate projections from 16 GCMs (the CMIP-3 project)

are being summarized for the region. The statistics of projected air temperature and precipitation from the 16 GCM set will

be compared to the 3 GCM set used in the study.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3002-10426-00015141269,648USDI CESU Coop Ecosystem Study 01/19/2010 12/31/2015

$269,648Total

108

LiDAR-based Bluff Assessment for Coastal land Use Planning

Land/Water Interactions

To conduct a digital terrain analysis of this newly-acquired LiDAR across Lake Superior`s North Shore to identify critical

or at-risk areas.

Objective

Background

Previous Activity

Current Activity

The striking character of the Lake Superior’s North Shore comes from its rugged bedrock-controlled topography, which

produces beautiful scenic vistas, abundant waterfalls, and fast-flowing streams that provide habitat for trout and many other

species. This same topography provides significant challenges, however, to natural resource management and land use

planning. The overlying soils are often erosive, and while erosion is a natural process, it can be accelerated by human

activity, resulting in impairments to streams and ultimately coastal waters of Lake Superior. The steep banks and bluffs are

also often important archeological sites, providing campsites and lookouts that have been used from early history to the

present by travelers along the North Shore.

Identifying bluffs, steep slopes, slumps, and other critical areas has been difficult in the past due to a lack of high-resolution

elevation data combined with the complexities of photointerpreting steep terrain in areas of heavy conifer cover. As a result,

while many problem areas along the North Shore are known, there is not a comprehensive understanding of the distribution

of steep topographic features throughout the coastal program boundary.

The intent of this proposal is to conduct a digital terrain analysis of this newly-acquired LiDAR across the coastal program

boundary to identify critical or at-risk areas. We will identify sites where steep slopes occur adjacent to stream reaches with

significant flow accumulation and/or erosive soils. In addition, we will conduct a more detailed characterization of several

critical sites using a side-scan terrestrial laser scanner (TLS). The TLS is a complement to the airborne LiDAR data; it is a

tripod-mounted device that can be used in the field to develop detailed characterizations of eroding banks, bluffs, or other

landscape features. This use of this new technology will serve two purposes – it will provide accurate baseline data to assess

changes in stream banks and bluffs over time, and will serve as a demonstrated of the capabilities of this emerging

technology to the community of north shore resource managers.

In the Duluth area, we are using LiDAR in conjuction with recent high resolution (3") CIR airphotos to develop detailed a

classification of urban stream watersheds, particularly to characterize the type cover on bluffs and other steep features. We

expanded our digital terrain analysis of LiDAR data, to north shore watersheds as well, including delineations of the Sucker,

French, Knife, Talmadge, Flute Reed and Grand Portage Rivers. We have calculated several terrrain analysis variable,

including the channel network, flow direction and flow accumulation.

__________________________________________________________________________


__________________________________________________________________________


AccountAmountProject Sponsor(s) Active 3013-10424-0002814534,723MN Lk Sup Coastal Prog (USDOC-Prime) 08/28/2012 12/31/2013

$34,723Total

109

Center for Water and the Environment – Program Notes

A project that started eight years ago with a generous donation from the late philanthropist Ron Weber

was recognized as the 2013 Partnership of the Year by Environmental Initiative on May 23. The Weber

Stream Restoration Initiative, managed by UMD’s Natural Resources Research Institute, was one of

15 finalists from across Minnesota. The Weber Stream Restoration Initiative is a collaborative effort

among local governments, agencies, citizen groups, and University of Minnesota scientists and educators.

Together they work to restore and protect the integrity of Lake Superior’s tributaries by identifying

critical areas, implementing restoration activities, and critically evaluating projects to inform future

restorations. Over $2.5 million in grants and in-kind matches have been raised leading to two major

restoration projects in 2009 and a suite of other projects still in progress. Key partners in the restoration

efforts were the City of Duluth and the South St. Louis Soil & Water Conservation District and the

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Other partners

include Minnesota Sea Grant, UMD Geological Sciences, Facilities Management and Office of

Sustainability, and the Boulder Lake Environmental Center. The Environmental Initiative organization

works to build partnerships that address complex environmental problems. The annual awards ceremony

honors innovative projects that have achieved extraordinary environmental results by harnessing the

power of partnership.

Personnel Gerald Niemi, senior research associate, was elected to a three-year term to the Raptor Research

Foundation board of directors. The Foundation is an international scientific society that accumulates and

disseminates scientific information about raptors. The group publishes the Journal of Raptor Research. Lucinda Johnson, senior research associate, received the Society for Freshwater Science Distinguished

Service Award for 2013. She was recognized for her contributions as president of the society in 2010-11

during which she administered progressive changes including changing the name from the North

American Bethological Society (NABS). Also highlighted were her years of service as secretary and on

various committees, as well as her efforts to coordinate a 4-society joint meeting in 2014 and active

student mentoring.

Lucinda Johnson, senior research associate, will serve as NRRI's interim director while a national search

is underway following the retirement of Mike Lalich in June.

Ron Moen was promoted to senior research associate in NRRI's Center for Water and the Environment.

Publications Scott Loss (UM TC campus), Ryan Hueffmeier, Cindy Hale, George Host, Gerald Sjerven, Lee Frelich

(UM TC campus). 2013. "Earthworm Invasions in Northern Hardwood Forests: a Rapid Assessment

Method." Natural Areas Journal 33(1): 21-30. Cindy Hale. Earthworms of the Great Lakes Region, 2nd ed. 2013. Kollath & Stensaas Publishing.

Carly Lapin, Matt Etterson (U.S. EPA), Gerald Niemi. 2013. "Occurrence of Connecticut Warbler

increases with coniferous forest patch size." The Condor 115:168-77.

Scott Loss (University of Minnesota TC), Ryan Hueffmeier, Cindy Hale, George Host, Gerald Sjerven, Lee Frelich (University of Minnesota TC). 2013. "Earthworm Invasions in Northern Hardwood

Forests: a Rapid Assessment Method." Natural Areas Journal 33(1). Cindy Hale, research associate, recently had her Great Lake Worm Watch online resources upgraded. Of

special note is the Invasion Earthworm Rapid Assessment Tool (IERAT) section. In addition, her ABC's

of Vermicomposting brochure was significantly updated.

110

http://greatlakeswormwatch.org/

http://greatlakeswormwatch.org/research/IERAT.html

Scientific Presentations/Meetings NRRI staff participated in the following presentations at the 11th International Lake of the Woods Water

Quality Forum held in International Falls, Minn., in March: “A multi-indicator approach to describing the

ecological history of the White Iron Chain of Lakes,” Euan Reavie; Amy Kireta, research fellow; and

Andrea Nurse (University of Maine). Also presented was “A historical phosphorus budget for Lake of the

Woods: Sedimentation in the southern basin,” Mark Edlund (St. Croix Watershed Research Station);

Reavie; Shawn Schottler (St. Croix Watershed Research Station); Devin Hougardy, teaching assistant,

UMD Large Lakes Observatory; Nigel Wattrus, associate professor, UMD Large Lakes Observatory;

Nolan Baratono (MPCA); Andrew Paterson (Ontario Ministry of the Environment); and Dan Engstrom

(St. Croix Watershed Research Station).

NRRI staff participated in the following presentations at the Association for the Sciences of Limnology

and Oceanography (ASLO) Aquatic Sciences meeting held in New Orleans, La., in February: “New

problems, new tools: updating the paleolimnology of the Laurentian Great Lakes,” Euan Reavie;

Victoria Chraïbi, UMD graduate student; Lisa Allinger, research fellow; and Amy Kireta. Also

presented was “An updated paleolimnology of Lake Superior,” Chraïbi, Reavie, Amy Kireta, Meijun Cai, research associate, and Terry Brown, research associate.

Valerie Brady, research coordinator, presented information about her ongoing Great Lakes wetlands

research at the 2013 Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting in Duluth, Minn., from June 2-6.

Outreach Cloquet middle school eighth-grader Holly McGinn, mentored by Research Fellow Jennifer Olker, was

chosen as a national semi-finalist for the Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, Technology, and

Engineering for Rising Stars) program of the Society for Science & the Public. Holly's project used NRRI

frog skeletons and digital images to calculate the symmetry between frogs with limb mutations and frogs

without mutations. Euan Reavie attended the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research Flow Cytometer Workshop held

in Texel, Netherlands, in February, to vet several vendors for analytical methods to analyze organisms in

ship ballast tanks.

Valerie Brady gave an invited presentation “How Stormwater Runoff Affects Stream Biota” at the Lake

Superior Watershed Ditch and Culvert Design Workshop in March, at the US EPA laboratory in Duluth.

The room was filled to capacity with 80 resource managers, hydrologists, and road and ditch engineers in

attendance. Brady also gave an invited seminar titled "Using Benthic Macroinvertabrates to Diagnose

Stream Impairment due to Excessive Fine Sediments" at the Twin Ports Freshwater Folk seminar series

on April 3. In addition, Brady gave an invited presentation titled “The Great Lakes Coastal Wetland

Monitoring Program: Assessing high-variability ecosystems” at the U.S. EPA Mid-Continent Ecology

Division Laboratory in Duluth on April 24.

111

NRRI Business Development

112

Small Business Development Assistance

The NRRI supports the UMD Center for Economic Development (CED) for small business development

assistance to those businesses focusing on the commercialization or conservation of natural resources.

The assistance is related to business planning, financial planning, financing plans, marketing plans,

ecommerce, etc, which complements the research and development activities at NRRI.

From January through June 2013 fifteen businesses with a base in natural resources or energy

conservation were provided one-on-one consulting. Of those, eight deal with alternative energy

production, particularly in the use of biomass or wood pellet production.

Between January and June 2013, CED continued to assist businesses that would be considered “green.”

The industries included alternative energy using solar, wind or alternative fuels, energy saving initiatives,

environmentally sustainable products and geo-thermal processes. Some of the current businesses involve

the development of bio-fuels.

CED continued to market the MN Cup Business Plan Competition throughout the NE region, and advise

participants in the student and alternative fuel categories. The Minnesota Cup is sponsored by the

University of Minnesota, Wells Fargo and the State of Minnesota.

One of the NRRI Product Development Fund recipients is also participating in the CED Business

Incubator Program and has been working on numerous business and financial projections with CED staff

members. This business is a past semi-finalist in the MN Cup competition and is reviewing new investors

and financing, including product licensing agreements.

CED continues to work with one of the regional communities on a solution to a biomass project, and its

partnership with the Minnesota Logger Education Program.

The 20th Annual Basic Economic Development Course will be hold in July. This course is accredited

through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and is the first course in a series of six

that is required for the certification as a Certified Economic Development Professional (CEcD). The 24

participants come from six states - Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, North Dakota, Wisconsin and Minnesota and

represented various levels of, private industry and the energy sector. The course is composed of ten

required topics that are covered during the week. Through the years, this course has received very high

ratings in the required evaluation structure.

Teen Enterprise - the Youth Entrepreneurship Camp – is scheduled in the Duluth area in June and in

Virginia in August. This camp was developed over a year ago and gives high school youth the

opportunity to explore entrepreneurship and business ownership. The participants are given the

opportunity to develop a Business Plan and they present their idea at the closing session. From the

classroom to the computer lab students participate in activities that focus on the challenges and

opportunities that come with starting a business. The Teens also visit and speak with members of the

business community and meet with entrepreneurs. The teens comment that their favorite part of the camp

is meeting real business owners and talking to them. This program was just recognized as a finalist for the

University Economic Development Association (UEDA) Awards for Excellence.

Expansion of SBDC network in northern Minnesota - The UMD Center of Economic Development

was recently notified that UMD and CED will be the new host for the NW SBDC in addition to the NE

SBDC. The NW SBDC covers eleven counties in north central and north western Minnesota. UMD has

been host to the NE SBDC for over 30 years and will be working with the regional partners in the NW

region to transition the NW SBDC to a regional host during the coming three years. The NW SBDC had

previously been hosted by Bemidji State University and most recently by Concordia College in Moorhead

which will continue as host until December 31, 2013. CED will work closely with UM Crookston and

Bemidji State as well as other regional partners to bring a new vision and direction to the NW SBDC.

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There are a number of efficiencies that can be accomplished with UMD covering both regions and there

are additional partnerships that can be increased to focus on the various industries that are more specific

to the northern third of Minnesota such as the timber industry and certain types of agricultural activity.

The SBDC network directs its activities to assisting entrepreneurs and existing business owners expand

and stabilize their businesses by providing one-on-one consulting, information resources, and educational

opportunities.

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NRRI Public Relations

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PUBLIC RELATIONS ACTIVITIES

Media Progress/Results

Burrelle’s Luce Clipping Service Media Value = $437,164.00

Other media value (Not tracked by Burrelle’s) = $9,759

Total Media Value $446, 923 (-$237,414.66 since last report)

Articles by Media Type: 66% print, 57% online

Print Newspaper mentions/stories:

- Duluth News Tribune 16

- Minneapolis Star Tribune 1

- St. Paul Pioneer Press 1

- Minnesota Enterprise 1

- Twin Cities Business 1

- Minnesota Business mag. 1

- Small towns/Weeklies 47

Online mentions/stories: 57

Television broadcasts: 10

Radio broadcast: 6

Social Media

- Facebook (8/8/13) 196 Likes/Fans (+52)

- LinkedIn (8/8/13) 50 members of the NRRI Group (+2)

Print NRRI Now Newsletter: 2,086 subscribers (-48)

Electronic Now Newsletter: 680 active contacts (+78)

42.2% (+4.0%) Open Rate (Industry Avg. = 20%)

NRRI Website: 15,918 Avg. successful page requests per day (+4,082)

Activity for requested reports:

- Economic Geology Group = 39.11%

- Moose in Minnesota = 11.43%

- Great Lakes Worm Watch = 8.49%

- Canada Lynx = 7.92%

- Rustmap = 5.99%

- CARTD = 5.62%

- Coastal GIS = 3.59%

- Default = 2.93%

- NRRI Now Newsletters = 2.40%

Visibility/Other PR Projects

Total number of people toured NRRI: 153

Other Public Relations Promotions:

Organized Writer’s Workshop for NRRI Book Project – Feb. 25

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Coordinated Industrial Byproducts Conference – held March 6

Led 4 University for Seniors classes with NRRI staff – throughout May

Coordinated Lung Health Partnership media event with TC campus – April 12

Staffed Lake Superior College Earth Day display – April 23

Coordinated media for Heating the Midwest conference – April 25

Gave invited talk to P.E.O. Women’s organization – 10

Nominated and won Partnership of the Year award for Weber Stream Restoration

Initiative – May 23

Gave invited talk to Association of Recycling Managers – June 13

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