Mine Site Reclamation

Resolution Copper has voluntarily undertaken a major cleanup of the Superior-area site affected by previous mining operations. Reclamation costs absorbed by our company will exceed $50 million, and the majority of work involved is being completed by local contractors, thereby helping to support the local economy.

Our reclamation objectives are to protect human health and the environment from any legacy mining residue that may exist, restore the site to natural vegetation and provide a sustainable cover, and re-establish the area for useful purpose.

Each year, we set specific targets for rehabilitation progress. We achieved our 2007 targets, which were to rehabilitate the east area of the site and to commence final rehabilitation of the No. 3 and No. 4 tailings sites. (Tailings are materials rejected from a mill after valuable minerals have been recovered.) In restoring vegetation, we’re selecting plants that blend in and survive with Superior’s natural rainfall cycle. We’re focused on soil reclamation and are taking measures to protect and preserve both surface and ground water.

Restoring Nature with Minimal Community Disruption
Beginning in November 2007, our company began loosening the rock at the back of the property beyond the No. 3 and No. 4 tailings dam. The loosened rock will then be used to cover tailings. RCM is approaching the excavation in a way that minimizes ill effect on the environment and results in minimal disturbance to residents who live close to the reclamation site. Small quantities of explosives are used to loosen the rock so that noise and other effects will be limited. Excavation will occur monthly for approximately one year and only between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The company has taken a variety of steps to inform the community in advance of planned activity. Information regarding the excavation schedule and anticipated effects was placed in The Superior Sun newspaper, and notices were hand-delivered to residents living in north Superior.

In addition to reclaiming nature for the enjoyment of residents and visitors, environmental efforts at the reclamation site will continue to infuse monies into the local economy through payroll, retail spending and contractor support.