Controversial Copper Mine Project in Arizona Receives New Push Despite Ongoing Legal Battle
The U.S. Forest Service has announced its intention to release a final environmental review and draft decision for a land transfer pivotal to a large copper mining initiative in Arizona. The proposed development has been met with significant opposition from Native American groups, as the site holds sacred value.
The area in question, Oak Flat within the Tonto National Forest, is set to be transferred to Resolution Copper, a move that remains under scrutiny due to an appeal currently pending before the U.S. Supreme Court. Apache Stronghold, representing members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, is at the forefront of this legal challenge.
Luke Goodrich, an attorney for Apache Stronghold, emphasized the urgency of the court’s intervention: “This makes the stakes crystal clear: if the court doesn’t act now, Oak Flat could be transferred and destroyed before justice can be served.”
In 2021, Apache Stronghold initiated a lawsuit against the U.S. government under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to safeguard Chi’chil Bildagoteel, an area integral to Apache spirituality, featuring historic oak groves and essential plants.
The same year, the Biden administration’s Department of Agriculture delayed the project’s environmental impact assessment to engage in consultations with tribes and stakeholders. In 2024, an appeals court permitted the land transfer to proceed, prompting the Supreme Court petition.
Resolution Copper, a subsidiary of mining corporations Rio Tinto and BHP, estimates the mine could yield 40 billion pounds of copper throughout its operational lifespan. The company projects the mine will contribute $1 billion annually to Arizona’s economy, creating numerous jobs.
In response to Thursday’s filing, the federal government indicated potential reevaluation of actions should the Supreme Court’s decision remain pending within 60 days.
Resolution Copper has welcomed the Forest Service’s notice as a favorable development, highlighting over a decade of extensive reviews and community consultations. Vicky Peacey, general manager of Resolution Copper, stated, “Working together, we have created a plan that preserves the area’s cultural heritage and natural resources and enhances recreational opportunities while creating new economic opportunities.”
Environmentalists also oppose the project, describing Oak Flat as a “biological gem” and warning that mining could cause severe ecological harm. Peacey reassured stakeholders of the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable project execution.
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