Excelsior Mining has just hit a significant milestone, securing the final permit to restart operations at the Johnson Camp Mine (JCM) in southeast Arizona. This green light from the State of Arizona, granting the amended Mined Land Reclamation Plan (MLRP), wraps up the necessary approvals for the company to kick off copper production. This isn’t just a procedural win; it’s a game-changer for Excelsior’s ambitions in the copper sector.
The MLRP joins the ranks of previously granted permits, including the Air Quality Permit and Aquifer Protection Permit, which together ensure that Excelsior Mining is fully compliant with regulatory requirements. This trio of approvals isn’t just a bureaucratic checklist; it’s a testament to the company’s commitment to responsible mining practices. The JCM site, which boasts a history as a former open-pit, heap leach operation, is now poised for a high-tech revival thanks to its collaboration with Nuton, a venture backed by Rio Tinto.
Currently in stage two of the reboot process, the partnership with Nuton is particularly intriguing. Last year, Excelsior struck an option agreement with Nuton to explore the application of their innovative copper heap leaching technologies at JCM. This isn’t just about digging up ore and calling it a day; it’s about leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability in copper extraction. The JCM site is well-equipped, featuring two open pits and a fully operational solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX-EW) plant capable of producing 25 million pounds of cathode copper annually. With all the necessary infrastructure in place, including pregnant leach solution and raffinate ponds, the mine is set to hit the ground running.
The implications of this development extend beyond Excelsior Mining itself. The copper produced at JCM is expected to bolster domestic supply chains, aligning perfectly with the Made in America initiative. As the world increasingly grapples with supply chain vulnerabilities, the ability to produce critical minerals like copper domestically is not just a boon for the company but a strategic advantage for the nation. With the first copper output projected for the first half of 2025, the timing couldn’t be better.
Robert Winton, Excelsior’s senior vice-president, emphasized the significance of this permit, stating, “This final permit is a key milestone bringing us one step closer to copper production at JCM.” His confidence in the partnership with Nuton is palpable as he notes the exciting opportunities it presents for both organizations and the wider copper industry. This local and state engagement is not just about economic opportunity; it’s about fostering a sustainable and responsible mining culture in southeastern Arizona.
As we look ahead, the successful restart of the Johnson Camp Mine could set a precedent for other mining operations in the region and beyond. It serves as a reminder that with the right partnerships and technology, the mining sector can evolve to meet modern demands while respecting environmental standards. The future of copper production at JCM is not just a win for Excelsior; it could very well signal a new era for the industry as a whole.
