UN 
On Tuesday, the U.S. Forest Service formally granted final approval for the Hermosa Mine, a major critical minerals project in southern Arizona’s Patagonia Mountains. The decision, announced from the agency’s regional office, clears the way for Australia-based South32 to begin extracting zinc, manganese, and other minerals designated as critical for U.S. supply chains. The mine is the first to complete the streamlined permitting process established under a federal initiative aimed at accelerating access to strategic minerals by 2026.
However, the approval has triggered swift backlash from Arizona-based conservation groups. The Arizona Wildlife Federation and Center for Biological Diversity jointly condemned the decision in a statement Tuesday afternoon, warning that the mine’s location overlaps with federally designated critical habitat for jaguars and Mexican spotted owls—two of North America’s most imperiled species. “This fast-track process has left fundamental questions about water use, habitat fragmentation, and legal compliance unanswered,” said Laura Montoya, a policy director at the Center, during a press call held in Tucson later that evening.
The Hermosa Mine project is projected to generate up to $1.7 billion in economic activity by 2028 and deliver key materials for domestic battery and steel production. South32 has pledged to implement habitat restoration measures and a biodiversity offset program, but details remain scant as of this week. U.S. Forest Service officials stated on Tuesday that the finalized permit includes seasonal restrictions and monitoring requirements, but environmental groups argue these measures fall short of safeguarding the region’s unique biodiversity.
Pressure is mounting as southern Arizona enters its hottest weeks of the year, with local communities facing heightened wildfire risk and drought conditions that further complicate mining’s environmental footprint. Public scrutiny is expected to intensify as South32 prepares for initial construction activities later this summer. The next round of legal and regulatory challenges is anticipated in the coming weeks, with advocacy groups signaling intent to pursue federal court intervention if mitigation plans are not strengthened.
With the Hermosa Mine now serving as a test case for the federal critical minerals fast-track program, sustainability professionals and policy researchers are closely watching how this summer’s developments influence future permitting standards and biodiversity safeguards across the U.S. Southwest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hermosa Mine and where is it located?
The Hermosa Mine is a critical minerals project located in the Patagonia Mountains of southern Arizona.
Who operates the Hermosa Mine and what minerals will be extracted?
The mine is operated by Australia-based South32 and will extract zinc, manganese, and other minerals designated as critical for U.S. supply chains.
Why are conservation groups concerned about the Hermosa Mine?
Conservation groups warn that the mine overlaps with federally designated critical habitat for endangered species like jaguars and Mexican spotted owls.
What economic impact is the Hermosa Mine expected to have?
The mine is projected to generate up to $1.7 billion in economic activity by 2028.
What environmental safeguards or mitigation measures are in place for the Hermosa Mine?
The permit includes seasonal restrictions and monitoring requirements, and South32 has pledged habitat restoration and a biodiversity offset program, though environmental groups argue these measures are insufficient.
