News Summary
A U.S. appeals court has temporarily halted the transfer of federal land in Arizona to Resolution Copper Mining Company, impacting a contentious project that threatens sacred sites for the San Carlos Apache Tribe. The decision came after urgent appeals from tribal members and environmental groups, preserving the land’s status for further legal arguments. While supporters claim the project would enhance the economy and job creation, opponents emphasize the risk to cultural heritage and the environment. This ruling sets the stage for ongoing debates about economic development versus the preservation of sacred lands.
Arizona
A U.S. appeals court has issued a temporary injunction to block the transfer of federal forest land in Arizona to the Resolution Copper Mining Company, affecting a controversial copper mining project that has been under scrutiny for over two decades. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals provided the injunction late on August 18, 2025, in response to urgent appeals filed by the San Carlos Apache Tribe and environmental groups.
The land exchange, which was set to take place on August 19, 2025, involves Oak Flat, a site considered sacred by the San Carlos Apache Tribe as well as other Native American tribes. This land has been used for religious ceremonies and the gathering of medicinal plants for generations. The court’s decision temporarily preserves the land’s status, giving the plaintiffs time to argue their case while highlighting the potential ecological and cultural threats posed by the proposed mining activity.
Former President Donald Trump criticized the court’s decision, asserting that it hinders job creation and the production of copper—a vital resource for the economy. Supporters of the mine maintain that it would generate approximately $1 billion annually for Arizona’s economy and create thousands of jobs, claiming that the project has undergone extensive consultations with local tribes and communities.
However, opposition to the land transfer has been steep, with multiple lawsuits arguing that the federal government is obliged to conduct a thorough environmental review to assess the potential risks associated with the mine. These concerns include the potential for dam breaches and pipeline failures, which would have severe consequences for local habitats and the supply of water—critical in a region already experiencing water scarcity issues.
Background on the Controversy
The dispute over the land transfer originated from a 2014 defense spending bill that mandated the exchange, with the U.S. Forest Service stating it has no discretion in the matter. Despite a previous judge’s ruling that declined to halt the exchange until the case was fully heard, the appeals court’s recent injunction effectively puts the process on hold.
The mine, situated approximately 60 miles east of Phoenix, is identified as one of the largest copper deposits in North America. Resolution Copper, a subsidiary of major mining corporations Rio Tinto and BHP, asserts that the operation is vital for meeting increasing copper demands due to its essential role in renewable energy technologies and electric vehicle production. Supporters contend that mining activities will comply with environmental regulations and promote economic growth.
Members of the Apache Stronghold and the San Carlos Apache Tribe have been vocal in their efforts to protect Oak Flat, presenting the area as a Traditional Cultural Property recognized in the National Register of Historic Places. They argue that mining would not only desecrate sacred ground but also threaten water rights and environmental integrity, impacting both cultural and ecological systems vital to their community.
The governor of Arizona and local residents have expressed mixed emotions regarding the project’s potential benefits. While some highlight the economic prospects, others remain concerned about long-term environmental ramifications and the implications for local ecosystems and resources.
The appeals court is expected to hear arguments regarding the merits of the case later in 2025, making this ruling a crucial moment for both the San Carlos Apache Tribe and the future of the proposed mining project. As the case progresses, it underscores the ongoing conflict between economic interests and the preservation of sacred lands and environmental health.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- AP News: Arizona Oak Flat Copper Mining
- AZ Mirror: Court Stops Oak Flat Transfer
- LA Times: Trump Backs Oak Flat Copper Mine
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Oak Flat Copper Mine
- Tucson Sentinel: Oak Flat Destruction Report
- Google Search: Arizona copper mining
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
