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Feds OK Copper Mine Near Superior Despite Environmental, Cultural Concerns

Federal authorities Thursday approved the request of an east-central Arizona copper mine to move forward with plans for new construction. That’s despite receiving criticism from environmental and cultural advocates.

Tonto National Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth approved operational plans and an environmental assessment for Resolution Copper Mining LLC.

Resolution Copper is a joint venture of the world’s largest and second largest mining companies, BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto, both Australian-British companies. This project, near Superior, is for a new copper mine, and the federal approval is to help evaluate possible construction of a large tailings storage facility.

Tailings are waste materials from mines.

Thursday's announcement also says Resolution Copper may construct wells and test pits and do other work related to groundwater and soil. The project has drawn criticism over environmental and cultural concerns from Native American groups who say the copper mine will disrupt sacred and environmentally sensitive land.

Heather van Blokland was a host at KJZZ from 2016 to 2021.