Paper mill plans expansion in Cloquet
by Bob Kelleher, Minnesota Public RadioDuluth, Minn. — An environmental review process has begun for a proposed addition to the Sappi Paper mill in Cloquet.
According to the Environmental Assessment Worksheet, Sappi is considering an expansion which would almost triple the plant's paper output.
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency planner Kevin Kain says the project would also create new jobs.
"The company proposes to add a new paper machine. It looks like there might be 100 to 200 additional people that would probably go along with the project, if it's built," said Kain.
Sappi now employs more than 700 workers in Cloquet. The company already makes the pulp it would need to supply the new paper machine, so the project would not require additional logging.
Sappi is not commenting on the proposed expansion.
Bob Kelleher
• ReporterBob Kelleher joined MPR's Duluth News staff in 1990, after three years with a Duluth commercial radio station, and several years on broadcast stations in Iowa.
