Mining giants Rio Tinto and BHP have secured essential land to push forward the Resolution Copper project in Arizona, marking a significant development after a protracted federal land exchange battle. The US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled in favour of the project developers and the federal government on March 13, denying opponents’ requests to halt the transfer and paving the way for the US Forest Service to finalise the deal.
The court’s decision authorised the transfer of approximately 930 hectares of federal land above the orebody near the historic Magma copper mine to Rio Tinto and BHP, who jointly own Resolution Copper. In exchange, the venture handed over more than 2,185 hectares of land with environmental and cultural importance, to be safeguarded within national conservation areas. While supporters hail the move as unlocking one of the United States’ largest undeveloped copper deposits, opponents argue the legal process overlooked critical stakeholder concerns.
Oak Flat, the site of the proposed mine, is revered by the San Carlos Apache Tribe and other Native American groups for its historical, religious, and cultural significance. The area has been a place of ceremony, prayer, and gathering for generations. Tribal leaders assert that the land swap threatens these traditions. San Carlos Apache Chairperson, Terry Rambler, previously stated, “Oak Flat is a sacred site where our people gather for prayer, healing, and ceremonies. Its destruction would be a profound loss not just for our tribe, but for all Indigenous peoples.” Tribal groups believe the underground mining plan could result in the collapse of Oak Flat’s surface, erasing a site integral to their identity and spiritual practice.
Local residents and environmental groups have also raised concerns regarding the project’s impact. “We worry about groundwater contamination and irreversible changes to local ecosystems,” said Mary Sanchez, a Superior resident and member of the Arizona Mining Reform Coalition. Environmental advocates emphasise the need for independent review, citing the rarity of Oak Flat’s biodiversity and its role as habitat for native species. Independent experts like Professor John Martin, a geologist at Arizona State University, note, “While copper is essential for the energy transition, projects like Resolution must be held to rigorous environmental and social standards to ensure long-term sustainability.”
Rio Tinto copper CEO Katie Jackson hailed the land swap as a milestone, stating, “Completing the land exchange is a significant milestone and another positive step forward for the Resolution Copper project, which has the potential to satisfy up to 25% of America’s copper demand for decades to come.” She highlighted the economic potential, estimating the project could contribute $1-billion annually to Arizona’s economy and generate thousands of jobs.
BHP Americas president Brandon Craig expressed optimism, emphasising the importance of domestic copper supply. “The land transfer allows us to advance development work aimed at securing copper supply for the US economy,” he said.
US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins described the project as fulfilling the vision of American mineral independence, pointing to copper’s necessity for defence, grid modernisation, and next-generation energy needs.
Despite the legal ruling and land exchange, the project faces several hurdles before construction can commence. Over the next two years, the partners plan to invest around $500-million in enabling work, including surface drilling, infrastructure upgrades, and initial underground development. This phase is expected to create about 100 jobs. However, further technical studies are required to assess environmental impacts, water usage, and geological stability. Community engagement is mandated by federal regulations, with public consultations and stakeholder meetings aimed at addressing concerns and building consensus. The permitting process involves rigorous review by multiple agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, and could lead to additional requirements or delays depending on the findings. These steps are crucial for project approval and could extend the timeline, especially if significant opposition or new environmental data emerges.
The completion of the land exchange marks a pivotal moment for Resolution Copper, but the controversy surrounding Oak Flat and environmental impacts remains unresolved. As technical studies, community engagement, and permitting continue, the project’s future will depend on balancing economic benefits with respect for cultural heritage and environmental stewardship. Diverse voices—from tribal representatives and environmentalists to local residents and industry leaders—will shape the path forward, highlighting the importance of inclusive dialogue in major development decisions.