Governor Walz celebrated significant developments in Minnesota, including the opening of a new Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Hub, three consecutive months of job growth, and the extension of a peacetime emergency to combat spreading wildfires in the state's northern regions. These announcements highlight the state's focus on environmental innovation, economic recovery, and emergency preparedness.
The Minnesota Sustainable Aviation Fuels Hub, located at Flint Hills Resources’ Pine Bend Refinery in Rosemount, was officially opened on Friday. This facility can process up to 30 million gallons of neat SAF annually, blend it with conventional jet fuel, and deliver it to MSP Airport via existing pipelines. Governor Walz said, “Our new sustainable aviation fuel hub is reducing our carbon footprint, supporting our farmers, and creating jobs.”
Further boosting the state's economy, Minnesota recorded its third consecutive month of job growth, adding 13,200 jobs in June, surpassing the national rate. This growth follows losses experienced during Operation Metro Surge. Governor Walz attributed this success to “strategic investments in workforce training, the prioritization of job protections, and support of small businesses.” Minnesota also ranks fifth nationally for business, excelling in quality of life, infrastructure, and economic environment.
In response to escalating environmental challenges, Governor Walz convened the Executive Council to address wildfires in northeastern Minnesota, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The council extended a peacetime emergency for 30 days, authorizing continued state assistance. Governor Walz expressed gratitude for “the partnership of our Canadian allies and for the tireless work of our firefighters, first responders, and Minnesota National Guard members.”