Enviros Take on Forest Service: Scrutinizing Environmental Review for South 32 Hermosa Mine

More than a dozen environmental organizations are calling on the U.S. Forest Service to reassess its environmental analysis of South32’s Hermosa Mine project. They argue that the potential impacts on the ecologically sensitive Patagonia Mountains in Southern Arizona were insufficiently addressed.

This request comes as the public comment period for the draft plan is set to close. Stakeholders have until midnight on June 23 to submit their input.

The Australian mining firm South32 has aimed to develop the Hermosa project since acquiring Arizona Minerals in 2013. The company envisions a modern mine capable of extracting high-grade minerals such as zinc, lead, silver, and manganese—elements deemed crucial for high-capacity batteries used in electric vehicles. South32 has pledged a $2.16 billion investment towards the mine’s infrastructure, including essential water management systems and power facilities.

Distinct from traditional open-pit mines, such as those proposed in the controversial Rosemont and Copper World projects, Hermosa aims to utilize two shafts and remote-controlled vehicles for mineral extraction. In 2023, the project received expedited federal permitting after the U.S. government categorized certain minerals as “critical” under the FAST-41 process, but a final decision on the project is not expected until late 2026.

Occupying about 750 acres, the mine is touted to employ advanced technologies that reportedly reduce air pollution and utilize 75% less water compared to conventional mining operations. South32 estimates this initiative will create around 900 jobs, including a control facility in Nogales, Arizona.

Despite its potential benefits, the mine has faced significant opposition from local advocacy groups, including the Center for Biological Diversity and the Patagonia Area Resource Alliance. South32 is still awaiting a federal permit for infrastructure on Forest Service land necessary for full project development.

As construction approaches 40% completion, company officials have stated that additional permits are needed for various infrastructure projects, including a 138kv power line and a new road. The Forest Service is in the process of completing a new Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which requires public input on its draft document.

The draft EIS is based on the mine’s operational plans, which have allegedly undergone revisions to enhance environmental protections. However, a coalition of organizations submitted a 221-page critique, asserting the Forest Service’s approach violates federal laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act.

In their letter to Forest Supervisor Kerwin S. Dewberry, the groups highlighted that the proposed mine area is part of the Madrean Pine Oak Woodland, a global biodiversity hotspot. They contend that the Forest Service did not adequately analyze existing environmental conditions or fully assess the mine’s direct and indirect impacts.

Carolyn Shafer from PARA emphasized the responsibility to safeguard air, water, and wildlife health against modern industrial mining’s risks. The coalition pointed out the potential threats the mine poses to various species, including ocelots and monarch butterflies, and criticized the oversight of cumulative environmental impacts.

South32 officials maintain that Hermosa is poised to be the only advanced mining project in the U.S. producing critical minerals. “We are designing Hermosa to be safer and less impactful, combining technology with best mining practices,” asserted Pat Risner, the mine’s president.

As the public comment deadline approaches, the Southern Arizona Business Coalition has urged members to express their support for the mine, viewing it as a critical step in the federal permitting process. Comments can take various forms, from technical feedback to personal experiences, and can be submitted through Forest Service channels.

Earlier this summer, the Environmental Protection Agency rejected the mine’s air quality permit due to non-compliance with the Clean Air Act, requiring revisions by the state regulators within 90 days.

Public comments can be submitted through the Forest Service’s dedicated webpage or by email. Mail submissions are also accepted at the address provided by the Forest Service.