The United States Forest Service has announced plans to issue a comprehensive environmental analysis and a preliminary decision regarding a contentious land transfer for an expansive copper mining project in Arizona. Known as Oak Flat, the site is situated in the Tonto National Forest and holds deep cultural significance for Native American groups, who have expressed strong opposition to the project.
A legal battle continues as the Apache Stronghold, representing certain members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, has taken their case to the U.S. Supreme Court. The group is pushing for a judicial intervention, arguing that the courts must act to protect the sacred area, which the Apache refer to as Chi’chil Bildagoteel. This location, rich with ancient oak groves and culturally significant plants, is integral to Apache spiritual practices.
In 2021, the U.S. government faced a lawsuit under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to defend this sacred site. During the same year, an environmental impact review was temporarily rescinded while the Biden administration consulted with Native tribes and other stakeholders to address their objections. Despite these consultations, in 2024, an appeals court refused to halt the land transfer, prompting Apache Stronghold to seek a higher ruling from the Supreme Court.
Federal attorneys indicated that if the Supreme Court review is still active or has been granted within the 60-day allotted timeline after the notice, they might reconsider the project’s progression. Under the previous administration, President Donald Trump implemented several executive orders to boost domestic energy and mineral output. These directives included measures to enhance copper mining operations.
Resolution Copper, a partnership between mining behemoths Rio Tinto and BHP, estimates that their mining operations at Oak Flat could yield around 40 billion pounds of copper throughout the mine’s lifespan. The economic impact is expected to be significant, with projections of $1 billion in annual contributions to Arizona’s economy and the creation of thousands of job opportunities.
Responding to Thursday’s developments, Resolution Copper heralded the notice as a critical step forward. Vicky Peacey, General Manager of Resolution Copper, asserted that years of thorough evaluations and collaborations with local communities and tribes have resulted in a plan that balances cultural preservation with economic growth. She emphasized that the initiative aims to safeguard cultural heritage and natural resources while advancing Arizona’s role in the nation’s energy production through a steady supply of copper and essential minerals.
Despite assurances from the project backers, environmental groups have voiced their concerns about the potential ecological and cultural degradation. They highlight Oak Flat as a vital biological area, fearing irreversible damage from mining activities. Nonetheless, Peacey reassured stakeholders of Resolution Copper’s commitment to maintaining an open dialogue and pursuing the project with responsibility and sustainability at its core.