The triceratops touches the sun. (Julia Lovett-Squires/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Julia Lovett-Squires

Metal Dino

Triceratops at BN Steel and Metals a destination

Feb 22, 2024 | 5:30 PM

Driving past the BN Steel and Metals Inc. in North Battleford, one may notice that something seems out of place.

A creature that lived during the Late Cretaceous period stands proudly with its three horns piercing the afternoon sun and cranial frill glimmering in the light. Made entirely of metal, the triceratops is a unique addition to the Saskatchewan landscape.

According to Owner Mark Riffel, in the beginning when he had the one location in Saskatoon, he was trying to come up with a way to create a destination and attract customers. In an email, he said the initial thought was trying to come up with the “world’s largest something.”

That’s when it came to him: Tyrannosaurus Rex.

Rusty, as the tyrant lizard is affectionately known, was the first dino in the BN Steel and Metals family.

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“A few years later we expanded, and we bought (Prince Albert) and North Battleford and we decided to give T. Rex some buddies,” said Felicia Johnson, chief operating officer, noting they also have Transformers mascots that make appearances at the different locations.

The triad of would-be edible friends that also includes a Stegosaurus at the P.A., location were all built by a company overseas and they’re trying to spread the word.

“Recycling is for everyone, not everybody has recycling in their home,” she said, noting they have Rusty as their spokes-dino to teach people about how to recycle and what kind of items can be recycled.

“Appliances big and small, toasters, phones, batteries, any type of wire, old extension cords, old Christmas lights, TVs,” she said noting printers and computers may also be recycled.

At this point, Rusty is the only one with a moniker, they other two have yet to be named and Johnson explained they may have a naming event in the future. For now, however, they are just happy people are dropping in and checking them out.

“We knew that’s a great thing to have out there for everybody to enjoy,” she said, noting cameras are always at the ready.

“We’re like ‘do that, tag us – tag us in social media.’”

To stay updated on the naming event or to meet Rusty, visit: http://www.bnmetals.com/.

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julia.lovettsquires@pattisonmedia.com

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