Following the release of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement(EIS) by the U.S . Forest Service(USFS), significant progress has been made in the permitting process for the South32 Hermosa project in Arizona.
The progress of the South32 Hermosa project
The proposal contemplates the development of a mine on private land in the Patagonia Mountains, south of Arizona, for the extraction of zinc and manganese. These minerals, classified as critical by the federal government, are essential for the production of batteries, resistant alloys and electronic components.
The USFS draft document identifies a “preferred alternative” that would allow South32 to move forward with its operations plan. This alternative includes the construction of a 138 kV power line, access roads, ancillary infrastructure and a modern dry tailings facility. It also contemplates a treated water direct discharge system designed to reduce the impact on regional water resources.
The draft was prepared following a technical evaluation of the Hermosa land use plan, revised in 2024 to integrate greater environmental safeguards. In addition, the USFS invites the public to participate in the comment process, which is open until June 23, 2025. In addition, meetings will be held in Patagonia and Nogales on May 27 and 28, respectively.
Hermosa is the first mining project to be included in the federal FAST-41 program to expedite permitting for nationally significant infrastructure. Covering 750 acres and designed to use up to 90% less water than conventional mines, the project aims to set new standards in sustainable mining.
Once operational, the Hermosa project could generate up to 900 formal jobs and boost the regional economy for decades to come. The development includes a zinc-lead-silver sulfide deposit, as well as a manganese-grade manganese deposit. battery-grade manganese battery grade manganese deposit. The integration of state-of-the-art technology and environmental planning positions it as a vital component of the U.S. energy security strategy.
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Source and photo: South32
