State Shuts Down Metal Recycling Plant in Becker

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The state of Minnesota has shut down a metal recycling company where a fire burned for days and sent up plumes of smoke.

The Star Tribune reports the state cited “imminent and substantial danger” to the public. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency issued an administrative order prohibiting Northern Metal Recycling from accepting any scrap metal at its plant in Becker, site of the fire. The company says it “strongly objects” to the agency's contentions.

On Friday, Gov. Tim Walz said he is considering placing a 30-day hold on Northern Metal's recycling permit. New air sampling results from the fire scene have found nothing unusual. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) _ Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says he is considering placing a 30-day hold on a metal recycling company's permit after a smoky fire that burned for days.

Walz said Friday he is looking at ways to hold Northern Metals responsible for pollution caused by this week's fire at its plant in Becker.

Walz told an audience that he does not trust Northern Metals ``to do the right thing.'' Reports say Walz said state regulators would make the decision on a 30-day hold.

Police say initial air tests have found no hazardous chemicals. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.