The entrance of the South32 Hermosa mine site, a critical minerals project that looks to source manganese and zinc.
The South32 Hermosa Project has published its Critical Minerals Exploration and Mine Plan of Operations.
The federally required document details activities on federal lands, including plans for environmental monitoring and reclamation activities.
The 215-page document says the project’s design choices reduce surface disturbance and environmental impact.
South32 says the Forest Service has deemed the plan “complete”, indicating the agency’s review of the plan and determination that it has the information necessary to begin the environmental review process.
Under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), an environmental review is required to assess potential environmental changes from the proposed mine project.
South32 says that changes to the plan are anticipated and will be updated during and after the NEPA review process.
A Notice of Intent (NOI) from the Coronado National Forest (CNF) to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is expected by mid-May.
South32 continues to face criticism from nearby residents who are concerned about negative health outcomes from manganese exposure.
South32 is an underwriter on AZPM, but they have no editorial control over the news department.
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