08.09.06

HOWARD, SOUTH DAKOTA - Governor Mike Rounds officially welcomed Knight & Carver Wind Blade Division to his state on Aug. 1 at a ground-breaking ceremony presided over by state and local officials.

"Knight & Carver represents a great addition to our business community. It will build on the city of Howard's efforts to create jobs through wind energy - an industry where South Dakota has great potential," said Gov. Rounds.

Under terms of a five-year lease agreement, Knight & Carver, a California firm, will operate a 26,000 square foot manufacturing and repair facility, with full-scale production scheduled to begin in November. The building's site has been cleared and leveled, with construction slated to start by mid-August.

The 7.2-acre facility will be adjacent to Energy Maintenance Services, a wind turbine service company that opened in Howard Industrial Park two years ago.

Gov. Rounds emphasized that the addition of Knight & Carver will enhance the efforts of the State of South Dakota and Miner County Community Revitalization (MCCR) to bring living-wage jobs and economy vitality to the region through the use of renewable energy sources. When completed this fall, the facility is expected to employ 10-25 full-time workers, with steady growth anticipated.

"We couldn't be more excited about bringing our wind blade operations to South Dakota," said Gary Kanaby, Knight & Carver Wind Blade Division manager. "The economic incentives provided by the state proved to be very convincing. We look forward to helping generate more renewable-energy jobs and increased economic prosperity for the people of Howard, Miner County and South Dakota."