Northern Great Plains coal: conflicts and options in decision making. A future choices project of the Upper Midwest Council

The issues, problems, and use of Northern Great Plains coal to meet part of the nation's energy needs are discussed. Various approaches to problem solving, including multi-state or regional linkages, for both short-term and long-term management of resource development are considered. Topics covered include: utility decisions and regulation, comparing two plant sites, energy transportation alternatives, regional planning and decision making, understanding growth and limits, and coal on Indian lands. Definitive recommendations and precise conclusions are presented addressing broad policy questions, alternatives that deal with problems of decision making, energy and other resource policy, economic considerations, and the importance of social and cultural values. (MCG)