Sen. Klobuchar Highlights Economic Development, Farm & Veterans Issues During Northern MN Tour

Press Release

Sen. Klobuchar Highlights Economic Development, Farm & Veterans Issues During Northern MN Tour

Following a tour of communities in northern Minnesota during the July 4th week recess, U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar said she appreciated the opportunity to discuss a range of economic development, agriculture and veterans issues with local residents.

After appearing in seven Independence Day parades on the Iron Range, Klobuchar traveled throughout northern Minnesota to meet with area residents and officials in nine communities: Ely, International Falls, Williams, Greenbush, Hallock, Bagley, Bemidji, Park Rapids and Wadena.

"I was very impressed to see firsthand the vitality and innovative spirit in our state's local communities," said Klobuchar. "Farmers, businesses and local governments are taking the lead in developing new renewable energy projects and other business opportunities, building on our abundant natural resources and the talents of our people."
Klobuchar added: "I was also impressed that I had the honor of being the first U.S. Senator, at least in the mayor's memory, to hold a town meeting in Williams, population 210."

In International Falls, Klobuchar met with the Koochiching County Board and other officials to discuss the proposed Renewable Energy Clear Air Project, a plasma gasification facility to convert municipal solid wastes into energy and other marketable byproducts in an environmentally-sound manner. Serving on the Senate Environment and Public Works, Klobuchar recently secured $400,000 in federal funding for the project.

In Williams, Klobuchar and Rep. Collin Peterson met with area farmers to discuss homegrown renewable energy opportunities with biomass.

Klobuchar and Peterson also gave updates on the progress of the 2007 Farm Bill. Klobuchar serves on the Senate Agriculture Committee.

In the Bemidji, Park Rapids and Roseau County, Klobuchar met with business leaders and area officials to discuss regional economic development trends and issues.

In Bemidji, Klobuchar toured the new Veterans Administration Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. She also met with disabled veterans at the Veterans on the Lake Resort near Ely. The nonprofit resort is designed to provide a barrier-free setting for a memorable outdoor recreation experience for disabled veteran and their families.

Klobuchar completed her tour with stops in Bagley and Wadena to meet with area residents at local cafes.

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