A Superior native reflects on leaving home, coming back and building a career close to the place that shaped him. Growing up in Superior, Arizona, Mike spent his afternoons coming home from school, jumping on his dirt bike and heading straight into the desert.
From the surface, 7,000 ft. is hard to picture. It is just a number until you walk toward the shaft, pass beneath the headframe and reach the collar, where the scale starts to come into focus. The opening drops below, surrounded by steel, hoisting equipment and the systems that move people safely between the surface and the underground workings.
When people think about mine safety, they often picture hard hats, reflective clothing and safety inspections. Those are all important, but some of the most important safety work happens long before an emergency occurs, through planning, testing and preparation.
Since 2009, Resolution Copper has treated and provided more than 8 billion gallons of water for agricultural use in Arizona. It is a major milestone for a program that starts nearly 7,000 feet underground and ends in local farm fields.
Before anyone can mine copper nearly 7,000 feet underground, someone must move the water. That’s where David comes in. As Water Services Supervisor at Resolution Copper, David helps oversee the systems that treat water pumped from the mine workings while also supporting the site’s potable water system. It’s work that blends science, troubleshooting and teamwork, all with one goal: keeping water moving safely and putting it to good use.
Every few months, we publish a scorecard to share where the project stands and what we’ve been working on. Numbers never tell the whole story, but they help show where we’re making progress, where we’re investing, and where our attention remains focused.
If you’re planning a visit to Oak Flat, here’s the most important thing to know: Oak Flat Campground remains open.
Resolution Copper is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Scholarship Program, awarding 20 scholarships totaling $51,000 to outstanding students from communities across the Copper Triangle.
Throughout June, Resolution Copper employees partnered with local organizations, educators, tribal communities, nonprofit groups, elected officials, and regional leaders to support education, strengthen relationships, invest in youth, and help build a brighter future for the Copper Corridor and beyond.
Learn how Resolution Copper is advancing environmental stewardship through land reclamation, responsible mine planning, and community partnership.