Junior miner Michigan Potash & Salt Co. LLC (MPSC), Denver, and Barton Malow Co., Southfield, Mich., a general contractor, announced on March 5 that they have materially completed a definitive agreement for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of the Michigan Potash and Salt facility in Evart Township in Western Michigan. The two companies said they have worked collectively as a team over the last four years to advance the EPC schedule.
“MPSC and Barton Malow have advanced the technical and management documentation to a level that is much further defined compared to other similar projects,” said Rick Helper, MPSC EPC Program Manager. “We are pleased to work with Barton Malow. They have a proven capability to safely and effectively deliver large projects in Michigan and the greater United States.” Founded in 1924, Barton Malow said it is the largest union trade employer in Michigan.
MPSC said it began ground clearing and infrastructure improvements this winter, including power and road upgrades, in partnership with infrastructural providers servicing Osceola County. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality issued permits for well construction last summer (GM June 8, 2018; March 9, 2018).
The company said its planned solution mining process will enable it to produce efficient, low-cost potash and co-product food grade salt near the heart of the U.S. Cornbelt.
MPSC said its $750 million initial investment in the mine will unlock a generational gain for the region, with a project life of over 150 years. The parties said the project will create approximately 260 direct construction jobs over a three-year period, and an approximate 150 direct full-time skilled trade jobs upon commissioning of the facility. The company calls its asset a $65 billion, tier 1 potash reserve with 150 million tons of recoverable K20.