Bitter Creek, along with its sister companies within WBI Holdings and MDU Resources have three primary environmental goals:

• Minimize waste and maximize resources.
• Support environmental laws and regulations that are based on sound science and cost-effective technology.
• Comply with or exceed all applicable environmental laws, regulations and permit requirements.

The corporation does this through its established operational practices and by leading or participating in a number of programs that help ensure a viable environment. Corporate policy specifically addresses environmental practices. The Environmental Policy directs that the corporation will operate efficiently to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

All of the MDU Resources’ companies strive to meet or exceed laws and regulatory requirements in all operations. The companies endeavor to minimize land disturbances while maximizing resource extraction. The companies engage in wildlife protection practices, promote emission reduction and fuel conservation, work with wildlife regulatory agencies, develop water enhancement practices, ensure water quality protection, control and prevent the spread of noxious weeds, promote noise reduction, and implement programs to develop and enhance public spaces in the communities they serve.

Sustainability Reporting
The word “sustainability” has become a popular part of society’s discussions about the future, although misunderstanding of the concept is still widespread. It is most frequently linked to the environment, but sustainability covers social and economic responsibilities, risks and, yes, even opportunities.

Sustainability means the corporation should manage its business with a long-term view, instead of focusing only on the next fiscal quarter. At WBI Holdings and MDU Resources, that’s not a new concept. It comes naturally because, when you boil it down to the simplest form, the corporation is in the business of sustaining the lifestyle Americans have come to expect and demand. View the 2009 Sustainability Report in detail (pdf)