Tonto National Forest Copper Mine Proposal Advances Amid Controversy

Future of Oak Flat: Copper Mining Controversy Takes Center Stage

The Tonto National Forest, located about 60 miles east of Phoenix, has long been at the heart of a contentious debate. A recent move by the U.S. Forest Service has reignited discussions over a proposed copper mine at Oak Flat, a location deemed sacred by Apache communities. This decision marks a critical juncture in a decades-long effort to develop the site.

The U.S. Forest Service has issued a 60-day notice signaling its intention to republish a Final Environmental Impact Statement. This document is pivotal for the proposed copper mine at Oak Flat, which has been pursued by Resolution Copper, a collaboration between mining giants BHP and Rio Tinto. The potential mine site is part of the Tonto National Forest and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Apache people.

Resolution Copper’s Ambitious Plans

Resolution Copper aims to extract over 1 billion metric tons of copper ore from beneath Oak Flat. Achieving this requires finalizing a land swap approved by Congress. “We are encouraged to hear the U.S. Forest Service intends to republish the Final Environmental Impact Statement,” stated Vicky Peacey, President of Resolution Copper. She emphasized the company’s commitment to engaging with local communities and Native American tribes to move the project forward responsibly.

The proposed project has encountered resistance, notably from the nonprofit Apache Stronghold, which has pursued legal action up to the U.S. Supreme Court, citing religious freedom concerns. Environmental groups, such as the Center for Biological Diversity, have also voiced opposition. Russ McSpadden from the center criticized the project, linking it to broader political motivations and environmental impacts.

Economic and Environmental Considerations

Proponents of the copper mine argue that the demand for copper is essential for various sectors, including clean energy technologies such as wind turbines and electric vehicles. “Copper is a crucial resource for America’s energy future, modern infrastructure, technology, and national security,” stated Resolution Copper. They highlight the economic and security benefits of a domestic copper supply.

Nonetheless, critics like McSpadden warn about both ecological impacts and the global nature of the mining operation. He pointed out that the copper mined in Arizona would likely be processed abroad, primarily in China, thus not directly benefiting the U.S. copper production landscape.