WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Forest Service approved the environmental review for South32 Hermosa Inc.’s proposed $3.3 billion zinc and manganese mining project in southern Arizona, advancing a development expected to create as many as 900 direct jobs while expanding domestic supplies of minerals used in steelmaking, batteries and defense-related industries.
The agency issued the final record of decision for the Hermosa Critical Minerals Project in Santa Cruz County near the U.S.-Mexico border, concluding the project’s review under the National Environmental Policy Act.
South32 Hermosa, a unit of Australia-based mining company South32, plans a mining and processing operation in a historic mining district. The company has set a goal of filling 80% of the project’s workforce locally.
The project contains one of the world’s largest undeveloped zinc resources, according to the Agriculture Department, and also includes manganese deposits. Both minerals are used in industrial manufacturing, infrastructure and energy storage.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins framed the approval as part of the administration’s effort to reduce U.S. reliance on imported minerals and strengthen supply chains tied to manufacturing and national security.
“With one of the world’s largest undeveloped zinc resources and key minerals such as zinc and manganese, it’s a strategic investment in America’s energy and manufacturing future,” Rollins stated.
The Hermosa review was completed through the federal FAST-41 permitting framework, which is intended to coordinate and accelerate environmental reviews for major infrastructure projects.
Coronado National Forest Supervisor Kerwin S. Dewberry indicated the record of decision closes the federal environmental review process. South32 must next submit financial assurance and a final mine plan of operations.
Final authorization is scheduled for Sept. 4, 2026, according to the Forest Service.
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