Massive Arizona Copper Mine Faces Supreme Court Showdown

The Resolution Copper mine near Superior, AZ — one of the most controversial mining projects in the U.S. — is once again in legal limbo. Here’s what real estate investors in Arizona should know:

Key Developments

  • Federal Land Swap: The U.S. government is moving forward with a land exchange that would transfer Oak Flat — a sacred site for the San Carlos Apache Tribe — to Resolution Copper, a joint venture of Rio Tinto and BHP.
  • Legal Battle: Apache Stronghold filed an emergency appeal to halt the transfer. The U.S. Supreme Court may hear the case, with a related hearing set for May 7.
  • Economic Stakes:
    • Potential to become one of North America’s largest copper mines.
    • Could contribute $1 billion annually to Arizona’s economy.
    • Would create 3,700 jobs (including 1,500 direct hires).
    • Estimated 40–50 years of operations after a decade-long buildout.

Support & Opposition

  • Supporters highlight the mine’s importance to U.S. energy security and critical mineral supply chains (used in EVs, batteries, defense).
  • Opponents argue the project would destroy Oak Flat, a religious and cultural site for Native tribes.

Federal Momentum

  • The Trump administration has designated the project a priority mining initiative, pushing for domestic mineral extraction amid global supply concerns.

Real Estate Angle

  • Investors take note: Major infrastructure and mining investments like Resolution Copper can shift employment, housing demand, and utility expansion in rural Pinal County.
  • Uncertainty remains: Until SCOTUS rules or declines to hear the case, developers and investors should proceed cautiously with land near Superior.