Northern Plains Nitrogen, Grand Forks, N.D., said Aug. 11, that it cleared its final permitting hurdle for its proposed nitrogen fertilizer facility in Grand Forks. A "Permit to Construct" was issued by the North Dakota Department of Health, Division of Air Quality based on analysis of the facility’s impact on air quality.
The permit was issued following a 30-day public comment period that drew only positive feedback, including an endorsement from the Grand Forks Region Economic Development. The EDC wrote, "NPN and the City of Grand Forks are working closely to ensure this plant technically meets or exceeds expectations for the safety and benefit of the region. The EDC supports projects that will enhance our region’s economy, generate new wealth and create new jobs. NPN’s project meets these goals, not only for our region but our state."
Calvin Coey, NPN project manager, said all necessary permits have now been approved. "We’re pleased to have the support and approval from the City of Grand Forks and now the State of North Dakota. As NPN continues to develop, we will continue to work closely with our neighbors to ensure a cohesive and mutually beneficial relationship," said Coey.
NPN is proposing a 2,400 st/d ammonia plant in an industrial area in the northwest quadrant of Grand Forks. It has been approved for the necessary rezoning and the preliminary plat showing how the 320-acre site will be used. NPN has also received approval from the City of Grand Forks to take an innovative approach to ensure an adequate supply of process and cooling water for its facility. The plant will meet a substantial share of its water needs by re-using "gray" water (wastewater from the adjacent Grand Forks city sewage lagoons).
Despite the permit, the facility’s developers continue to seek financing, which they say would allow construction to start in the next one-to-two years.
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