Arizona & Copper

Arizona has a diverse cultural history, especially here in the Copper Triangle. Mining and ranching have been an integral part of this community for more than 100 years, and the area is home to many federally recognized tribes and to the places where they have historic and cultural ties.

Our project helps generate social and economic benefits for local communities while working towards a mining operation that will produce up to 25% of the U.S. demand. Copper is a cornerstone of Arizona’s history and economy. Since 1910, the state has been the nation’s leading producer of copper. Today, 68% of all the copper produced in the U.S. comes from Arizona. The copper star at the Arizona flag center highlights the industry’s importance to the Grand Canyon state.

Copper’s impact on Arizona*

  • $6.9 billion worth of minerals produced (2019)
  • Jobs for 39,000 Arizonans (2018)
  • $102,859 average annual industry wage (2017)
  • $1.2 billion direct payrolls to Arizona workers (2018)

*The University of Arizona, Lowell Institute for Mineral Resources

The Copper Triangle

There is no doubt that mining changes the landscape. We’re committed to protecting the land and surrounding area while we operate and after mining is complete.

Since 1863, when prospector Jacob Waltz laid claim to gold in a patch of Arizona desert just 60 miles east of Phoenix’s burgeoning city, the Pioneer Mining District has been at the heart of the state’s mining industry.

While Waltz’s claim continues to draw people searching for his legendary “Lost Dutchman’s Mine,” mining in the district began in 1875, when the King Mine began pulling silver out of the ground.

In 1912, the Magma Copper Mine started up, an operation that continued through the mid-1990s, built the nearby town of Superior and came to define the Pioneer District and its rich stores of copper.

Today, the Resolution Copper team is cleaning up this historic mining site and developing a plan in consultation with the community and other stakeholders to safely develop copper that lies nearly a mile beneath the surface of the original Magma Mine.

Our Work

Resolution Copper continues investment in local kids and teachers through $900,000 partnership with the Superior Unified School District

Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP, announced an agreement with the Superior Unified School District todonate $900,000 to fund educational opportunities for students in the district.

Samson Belvado – From Apprentice to Future Environmental Scientist

At Resolution Copper, we believe that investing in our people is key to protecting the environment and building a sustainable future. One standout example of this is Samson Belvado, a proud member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe and a passionate Environmental Apprentice.

Strengthening Local Partnerships with Superior Environmental Solutions

Mario Sanchez, the dedicated owner of Superior Environmental Solutions, has been a cornerstone of our partnership network since the very beginning.

2024 Most Influential Women in Arizona includes Vicky Peacey

Vicky was featured on the cover of the July issue issue of Az Business magazine, profiled inside the magazine, and will be honored at the corresponding Most Influential Women in Arizona celebration dinner on Thursday, Aug. 22, at Chateau Luxe at 1175 E. Lone Cactus Drive, Phoenix, 85024.

Celebrating World Indigenous Peoples Day: Honoring Jacob Casoose’s Journey

Jacob Casoose is more than just a valued employee; he is a loving husband, devoted father, cherished brother, and a friend to many. As a proud member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, Jacob understands the unique challenges Indigenous communities face in finding meaningful employment and opportunities.

Pioneering Progress: The Mini Work Deck at #10 Shaft

At Resolution Copper, innovation drives us forward. Our latest advancement, the Mini Work Deck for the #10 Shaft, exemplifies our commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and productivity in mining operations.

Celebrating Unity and Achievement: A Week to Remember at NABINation

As the 21st Annual Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI) drew to a close, we at Resolution Copper were in awe of a truly unique week of empowerment, community, and celebration. Being the presenting sponsor for this year's event, held in Phoenix, Arizona, was an honor and a rare and profound privilege for our team and tribal employees.

Successful Completion of No. 9 Shaft Sinking Galloway Project

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the No. 9 Shaft Sinking Galloway project, a critical endeavor that brings the No. 9 Shaft up to the 2024 standards of Resolution Copper, Rio Tinto, and Redpath. This project was essential to ensure the safe deepening of No. 9 Shaft, involving comprehensive structural and electrical upgrades.

Resolution Copper 2023 Yearend Review

Throughout my career with Resolution Copper, I have been constantly impressed by the hundreds of people who keep the operation running, and 2023 was no different. In becoming President and General Manager in March 2023, I’ve continued to see the best of our team