(Washington, D.C., June 16, 2025) - Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced the U.S. Forest Service has posted the final environmental impact statement and draft record of decision for the proposed Resolution Copper Mining Project. These documents, now available on the Tonto National Forest website, represent an important step in advancing President Trump's goal of emergency and mineral independence by boosting domestic mineral production.
"The Resolution Copper Project is a prime example of how we can harness America's abundant resources to fuel growth in rural America, reduce our dependence on foreign imports, strengthen our supply chains, and enhance our national security," said Secretary Rollins. "By advancing responsible mining, we are fulfilling President Trump's vision of ensuring America remains a global leader in mineral production while creating jobs for the people and communities we serve."
In 2014, Congress—through the National Defense Authorization Act—mandated the publication of the documents and the transfer of federal lands on the Tonto National Forest out of federal ownership to facilitate a copper mine project proposed by Resolution Copper LLC. However, the land transfer cannot occur until August 19, 2025, or 60 days after the Federal Register notice is published, according to a June 9 ruling by the U.S. District Court of Arizona. The mine is projected to create nearly 1,500 jobs, generating $149 million in annual payroll, provide between $80 and $120 million a year in estimated state and local tax revenue for rural economies, and contribute $200 million a year to the federal government, ensuring long-term national benefits.
The Resolution Copper's proposed underground copper mine aligns with President Trump's Executive Orders on unleashing American energy, increasing domestic mineral production, and protecting energy ventures from government overreach. Together, these orders outline an agenda to support domestic manufacturing, strengthen the nation's energy infrastructure and ensure critical minerals are available for national defense supply chains.
The final environmental impact statement, draft record of decision, and other related documents are available online at www.resolutionmineeis.us. The final environmental impact statement also will be posted in the Federal Register on June 20.
