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Ninth Circuit Halts Land Transfer for Arizona’s Resolution Copper Mine

A late challenge from tribal and environmental plaintiffs prompted a temporary injunction focused on whether the government’s review is sufficient.

Overview

  • The land swap needed for Rio Tinto and BHP’s Resolution Copper project was set for today before a panel issued a temporary injunction late Monday.
  • Plaintiffs argue the government must complete a comprehensive review of the mine and all related infrastructure before any transfer proceeds.
  • Their filings cite unaddressed risks including potential dam breach, pipeline failure, and contingency planning for tailings storage.
  • Resolution Copper says an 11-year NEPA process led by the U.S. Forest Service included extensive Tribal and agency consultation and produced major plan changes.
  • President Donald Trump criticized the ruling on Truth Social, saying 3,800 jobs are affected and that an expedited appeal to the Ninth Circuit will be sought.