By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has taken a major step in advancing the Resolution Copper Mining Project in Arizona.
Secretary Brooke Rollins announced the U.S. Forest Service has released the final environmental impact statement and draft record of decision, available on the Tonto National Forest website.
The copper project, proposed by Resolution Copper LLC, is backed by the 2014 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandated land transfer on the Tonto National Forest for mining.
However, due to a June 9 federal ruling, the transfer cannot take place before August 19, 2025, or 60 days after the publication of the Federal Register notice.
The mine is expected to bring major economic benefits—nearly 1,500 jobs, $149 million in annual payroll, and up to $120 million in state and local taxes. Additionally, it could contribute $200 million each year to the federal government.
Secretary Rollins emphasized the project’s importance, saying, “The Resolution Copper Project is a prime example of how we can harness America’s abundant resources to fuel growth in rural America, reduce our dependence on foreign imports, strengthen our supply chains, and enhance our national security.”
The proposed mine supports national goals tied to mineral independence, secure supply chains, and economic development in rural regions. It also aligns with federal directives to increase domestic energy and mineral output.
The documents will also be published in the Federal Register on June 20. This move is seen as a significant step in fulfilling energy and mineral policy objectives while benefiting communities and the economy.
For more details, visit www.resolutionmineeis.us.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National