US Forest Service Sparks Controversy Over Arizona Copper Mine Land Transfer

In a significant development, the U.S. Forest Service announced that it will release a final environmental review and draft decision regarding the controversial land transfer necessary for a major copper mining operation in Arizona. This project, proposed by Resolution Copper, has faced substantial opposition from Native American groups who regard the site as sacred.

The Forest Service had previously been under a court order to provide two months’ notice before proceeding with the documentation required for transferring Oak Flat from the Tonto National Forest to Resolution Copper. A legal appeal by Apache Stronghold, representing certain members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, is currently pending before the U.S. Supreme Court.

“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,” stated Luke Goodrich, an attorney for Apache Stronghold.

The organization filed suit against the U.S. government in 2021 under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. They seek to protect Chi’chil Bildagotee, an area sacred to tribal members, which features ancient oak groves and significant plant life central to Apache spiritual practices.

In response to community concerns, the U.S. Department of Agriculture had halted an environmental impact survey in 2021 to engage in consultations with various tribes. However, an appeals court decision in 2024 allowed the land transfer to move forward, prompting Apache Stronghold to appeal to the Supreme Court.

Legal representatives for the federal government indicated that they would reconsider their approach based on the status of the appeal within the next 60 days.

The project has garnered support from industry leaders, including President Donald Trump, who had pushed for policies aimed at enhancing domestic energy and mineral production. Resolution Copper estimates that mining operations could yield 40 billion pounds of copper, significantly contributing to Arizona’s economy with projected annual revenues of $1 billion and thousands of jobs.

Vicky Peacey, general manager of Resolution Copper, described Thursday’s announcement as a constructive step forward, citing extensive reviews and consultations over the past decade with local communities and Native American tribes. She emphasized the company’s commitment to balancing cultural heritage and environmental concerns with economic growth.

Environmentalists, however, raise alarms about the long-term ecological impact of mining in this area, labeling it a “biological gem.” They warn that mining activities could result in severe environmental degradation. Peacey assured that the company is dedicated to engaging in open dialogues to ensure the project is managed in a responsible and sustainable manner.