An investor report on Augusta Resource is now available from the non-profit organization, Save the Scenic Santa Ritas. An accompanying press release with access to the report can be found here. Augusta Resource owns Rosemont Copper Company, and acquired mining claims in the Santa Rita Mountains in 2005.

Read the Press Release and Investor Report!

A Canadian based mining company, Augusta Resource is attempting to obtain permits to construct an open pit mine in the biologically rich Santa Rita Mountains, part of the Coronado National Forest. This mine would on 4,000 acres and is estimated to impact up to 5,400 acres of sensitive land. Massive mitigation efforts would be required, but are inadequate to restore the integrity and ecological function of the area. Severe damage would befall Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, which includes Cienega Creek. The BLM recently stated that the proposed mine would lower groundwater tables, resulting in reduced surface flows to vital tributaries that support biological diversity.

The Investor Update provides interested parties with essential information that Augusta Resource has not necessarily shared, addressing important flaws, inconsistencies, and unresolved regulatory issues that could stop approval of the mine. The update is based on regulatory records, financial filings, technical reports, and media accounts.

The impact this mine would have on the wildlife, air, economy, and ecology of the Santa Ritas would be devastating. The effects of the proposal would extend far past the estimated 20 year lifespan of the mine, despite claims that reclamation and mitigation would begin from Day 1 and that 406 direct jobs and 1600 indirect jobs would be created. Residents from all backgrounds have joined together in opposition to the mine, fighting the damage it would bring to Southern Arizona.