South32 Secures U.S. Forest Service Approval for Hermosa Mine

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins framed the approval as a strategic move to reduce reliance on foreign mineral sources while powering industries vital to modern technology. While the primary extraction site sits on private property, the project requires access roads, a waste facility, and power lines to traverse the Coronado National Forest. Forest Supervisor Kerwin Dewberry confirmed the company must now submit financial assurances and a finalized mine plan, with ultimate authorization expected by September 4.

This development represents a shift for South32 toward commodities deemed essential for the low-carbon transition, with the company anticipating decades of production. However, the path forward remains financially strained. Earlier this year, South32 reported that its initial Taylor development site faced significant delays and cost overruns attributed to inflation and contractor issues. The project budget has surged to approximately $3.30 billion, a sharp increase from the original $2.16 billion estimate.