April 10, 2008
The proposed Rosemont Copper Mine in the Santa Rita Mountains about 30 miles SE of Tucson has been causing controversy for months. Augusta Resource Corporation, a Canadian company, wants to mine millions of pounds of copper and other minerals on its private land but also needs to use about 4-thousand acres of US Forest Service property.
Augusta says the operation is expected to have a lifespan of 18.2 years and contribute about $250 Million to the local economy every year. But opponents say the environmental degradation, use of groundwater, decline in tourism and other concerns will outweigh the economic benefits. For example, the mining operation plans to use about 1.9 billion gallons of water per year although officials say they'll recharge it.
For more information and to comment on the proposal go online to the Forest Service Rosemont Mine Project site
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