Opposition to Land Exchange

The Apache Moccasin reports that the Retired Miners Coalition of Superior has joined with the San Carlos Apache Tribe in its opposition to the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act. The group says they are concerned that the town of Superior could collapse if the block cave mining operations proceed without proper administrative review by the Federal government.

Meanwhile a forum was held May 2 in North Carolina about the potential environmental, cultural, and spiritual effects of the proposed mining operations. More than 20 organizations were represented at the meeting, where a delegation from the San Carlos Apache Tribe gave a presentation. Organizers of the forum say that the Congressional bill allows Resolution Copper to avoid the environmental, cultural and historical preservation studies required by the National Historic Preservation Act. They say they will focus their efforts on the protection of the Oak Flat/Apache Leap landscape as an important part of Apache religion.

Most Arizona politicians and business leaders support the land exchange bill, saying the operation will provide thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in tax revenue.