PROTECTING AND CONSERVING WATER

Resolution Copper is permitting one of the world’s largest untapped copper deposits in Arizona’s Copper Triangle. Once in operation, the mine could supply up to one-quarter of the nation’s copper demand, providing a vital resource for America’s clean energy transformation. We take water conservation very seriously. We’re committed to transparency and constant improvement when it comes to water use, seeking ways to implement state-of-the-art technology to help further minimize our water needs in the long term.

One of the Most Water-Efficient Copper Mines in the U.S.

Resolution Copper will be the most water-efficient mine in Arizona – using fewer gallons of water per pound of copper produced than any other mine operating in Arizona. That means every drop of water used at Resolution Copper goes further than water used in other copper mines and brings more benefits to the region.

At maximum operations, Resolution Copper will use less than 5 gallons of water per pound of copper, compared to the approximately 10-50 gallons of water per pound of copper produced in other copper mines.

At Resolution Copper, we focus on reducing water usage across our operations, minimizing evaporation, and reusing and recycling water whenever possible. We have already stored enough water to sustain our operations, assuming maximum production for more than half the mine’s operating life. And the Environmental Impact Statement published by the US Forest Service demonstrates an adequate water supply for all cumulative uses for the next 100 years.

Focus on Transparency and Investing in Technology

From the beginning, we have welcomed input from experts and local communities. We have worked hard to address any concerns about water use in ongoing consultation with community groups and Native American Tribes. Resolution Copper has committed to using the latest technology proven at our scale to increase recycling and reduce water use, but we think we can do better. It will be at least a decade until Resolution Copper begins formally operating, and we are actively exploring ways to further reduce our water use and needs over time. Our key water reduction methods include:

  • Operating as an underground mine, which requires less water for dust
    control as compared to open-pit mines.
  • Lining a portion of the tailings facility, reducing water loss.
  • Thickening tailings to higher solids concentrations (60%) resulting in 43%
    of water being recovered for recycling and reuse, in comparison
    to typical tailings facilities in Arizona with 50% solids concentration,
    resulting in 29% of water being recovered.

Providing Water to Local Farmers

As we dig, the water we remove from 7000 feet below the ground in bedrock goes through an on-site treatment process and is then sent to an irrigation district where farmers use it to grow crops. By beneficially using our treated water, farmers pump less, leaving more water in the ground. Continuous monitoring ensures the water meets regulatory standards. Since 2009, Resolution Copper has provided approximately 7 billion gallons of water to local farmers.

Adhering to Water Regulations

Resolution Copper complies with all federal, state, and local laws for water quality and water use, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act. We have invested in an extensive surface and groundwater monitoring network and multiple federal, state, and local regulators oversee our work. We have also partnered with the Town of Superior to collaborate on water studies, monitoring, and restoration efforts.

Protecting Aquatic Habitats

Resolution Copper’s land exchange with the federal government will transfer more than 5,400 acres of land into public hands, protecting the habitats of threatened and endangered aquatic creatures, while preserving miles of creeks and rivers in their entirety.

The Lower San Pedro River parcel, the largest of all the land parcels in the exchange, has an ecosystem noted by the Nature Conservancy as one of the “Last Greatest Places on Earth” and has earned the distinction of “Important Bird Area” from prominent bird groups. Transferring these lands into public hands will enable the government to prioritize conservation efforts and protect vulnerable habitats of threatened and endangered aquatic creatures while preserving miles of creeks and rivers in their entirety.

Water Use and Monitoring

In 2017, Resolution Copper partnered with the local Community Working Group (CWG) to form a community monitoring program. The CWG hired a consultant to take quarterly groundwater samples from locations surrounding the project area to establish baseline conditions and monitor current activities. Samples are sent to an independent testing laboratory and the results are compared against compliance requirements and shared with the CWG and Resolution Copper for discussion. The sampling fosters transparency, information sharing, two-way dialogue, and trust.

We have already stored enough water to sustain our operations for more than half the mine’s operating life. The Environmental Impact Statement (EID) previously published by the US Forest Service demonstrates there is adequate water supply for all cumulative uses in full compliance with the law for the next 100 years.

Resolution Copper does not and will not withdraw water from the San Carlos Apache Tribe or the Cutter Basin.

Resolution Copper does not have the physical infrastructure or legal authority to withdraw water from the boundaries of the San Carlos Apache Indian Tribe or the Cutter Basin. The Project’s future water supply is from groundwater collected at 7,000 feet deep in the mine and an area located 50 miles away from the San Carlos community.

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