Please note: This is a Sole Source Notification. It is the intent of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to allow our lands and minerals staff to attend the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration conference in April of 2025. This event is the primary professional development conference that is specifically focused on iron ore and nonferrous materials, mining and reclamation. Staff will be presented information, attend short courses along with excursions and network with others in the field. This event will convene experts from the Midwest Region to present at technical sessions. The conference will also highlight the developments, technology, trends and innovations directly affecting the Iron Range region of Minnesota. Staff attending will also be introduced to forward thinking perspectives on various topics, including ESG, innovation in processing, plant maintenance optimization and industry challenges.