For Immediate Release

June 14, 2007

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Contact: Julie Fedorchak

Communications Manager

701/391-1140

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Ward County Receives A $310,000 Grant

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BISMARCK � The North Dakota Department of Commerce, in conjunction with the Souris Basin Planning Council, has provided a $310,000 grant to Ward County to extend water lines, sewer lines and rail infrastructure to the MG Grain, LLC site. The business will create 20 new jobs and is anticipated to be operational by the fall.

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�This is a benefit to North Dakota producers because it provides them with an opportunity to gain access to the global market,� said Don Longmuir of the Souris Basin Planning Council. �This operation clusters nicely with the value-added agricultural and intermodal park and serves as a vital tenant.�

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MG Grain, LLC is an agricultural processing facility that will be located on 40 acres in the Minot Value-Added Agricultural Park and is anticipated to produce 600 tons of agricultural commodities for transport per day.

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Funds for the project came from the Community Development Block Grant program managed by the North Dakota Department of Commerce. The program provides financial assistance to eligible cities and counties in North Dakota. The eight regional planning councils receive an allocation from the state to fund projects in their region.

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Funds are awarded in the form of grants and loans in three categories: economic development projects, public facilities and housing. Primary beneficiaries of the CDBG funds are low- and moderate-income individuals. To apply, applicants must contact the regional council in their area.

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The North Dakota Department of Commerce works to improve the quality of life for North Dakota citizens by leading efforts to attract, retain and expand wealth. Commerce serves businesses and communities statewide through committed people and partners who offer valuable programs and dynamic services.

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