Resolution Copper has finalised a historic land exchange with the United States Forest Service, unlocking the next phase of development for one of the world’s largest untapped copper deposits.
The completion follows a decisive ruling in the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on March 13, which found in favour of the project and the federal government, dismissing attempts by plaintiffs to block the swap.
Under the agreement, Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP, has transferred more than 5,400 acres of environmentally and culturally sensitive land into permanent protection.
This land, which includes riparian areas, special status species habitats, and Native American cultural sites, will be integrated into National Forests and Conservation Areas. In return, the joint venture received roughly 2,400 acres adjacent to the historic Magma copper mine in Superior, Arizona.
The project is set to be a powerhouse for the American energy transition. Rio Tinto Copper COE Katie Jackson noted that Resolution has the potential to satisfy up to 25 per cent of US copper demand for decades and add US$1 billion a year to Arizona’s economy.
“Rio Tinto is building a stronger copper business with a pipeline of large, long-life resources that can help meet growing global demand for the materials needed for electrification, infrastructure and modern technologies,” Jackson said.
“As demand for copper continues to grow, projects like Resolution can play an important role in strengthening domestic supply chains.”
Coinciding with the land swap, the joint venture announced an additional US$500 million (A$760 million) in preliminary spending over the next two years.
This funding will cover surface drilling, infrastructure upgrades, and initial underground development, while creating approximately 100 new jobs. It also includes dedicated funding to support local Native American Tribes and communities.
While the land exchange marks a decade-long milestone involving bipartisan political support, the project will continue to navigate state-level permitting and ongoing consultation with Indigenous groups.
