Hudbay Minerals has filed a reclamation plan with the state in which it says it will build three open pit copper mines on the west slope of the Santa Rita Mountains.
The company is conducting studies and drilling tests on the area, known as Copper World, and will make a final decision whether or not to proceed when those are complete.
Company representatives told investors the Copper World locations will probably be developed before the Rosemont Copper Mine on the Santa Rita’s eastern slope. Rosemont is tied up in litigation and regulatory appeals for the foreseeable future.
Hudbay officials estimated a possible 2027 commencement for activity in Copper World if permitting and other processes go smoothly. The company expects an easier permitting process with Copper World, since the deposits are all on private land, unlike Rosemont, and requires only three permits. (Source)