The US Forest Service (USFS) has republished the final environmental impact statement (FEIS) and draft record of decision for the Resolution copper project in Arizona clearing a regulatory hurdle for the mine that could become one of the world’s biggest copper producers.

The mine is operated by Resolution Copper Mining – a joint venture that is owned 55% by Rio Tinto and 45% by BHP.

US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said this week that the republication of the FEIS was “an important step in advancing President Trump’s goal of emergency and mineral independence by boosting domestic mineral production”.

“The Resolution Copper project is a prime example of how we can harness America’s abundant resources to fuel growth in rural America, reduce our dependence on foreign imports, strengthen our supply chains, and enhance our national security.”

The republished documents pave the way for the congressionally mandated land exchange under the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act of 2014. However, the actual transfer of federal land cannot take place until at least August 19, or 60 days after the Federal Register notice is published, following a US District Court ruling earlier this month.

Resolution Copper welcomed the announcement, saying the republication allows the USFS to move forward with the land exchange, enabling future underground mine development while placing thousands of acres into permanent conservation.

“This project has undergone one of the most comprehensive environmental and social reviews in US history. The republication of the FEIS reflects the thorough work by the USFS, local communities, and Native American Tribes and the seriousness with which all stakeholders have approached this process,” said Resolution Copper GM Vicky Peacey.

“Through this process, we have deepened our relationships with local communities and Native American Tribes, including our senior leaders spending time with Tribal leaders to listen and build mutual understanding,” Peacey added. “We welcome the opportunity to continue these conversations as we move into the next phase of permitting.”

The Resolution copper project is located on the site of the historic Magma copper mine. Once operational, it is expected to generate about 1 500 jobs, $149-million in yearly payroll, and up to $120-million a year in state and local tax revenue. The mine could contribute as much as $1-billion a year to Arizona’s economy and $200-million a year to the US federal government.

However, the project remains a controversial development, with strong opposition from certain Native American advocacy groups. Last month, the US Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal brought by Apache Stronghold, which had sought to block the mine on religious grounds.

In addition to its economic contribution, Resolution Copper has committed to long-term partnerships and funding for cultural preservation, Emory Oak restoration, biodiversity initiatives, and community development projects.