Open-pit mine proposal draws controversy

The Federal Bureau of Land Management is considering construction of an open-pit mine near Skull Valley, Arizona, project opponents believe would bring economic growth at the cost environmental sacrifice.

The 40-year mining plan would bring jobs, create industry and revitalize the community, supporters of the mine argue. Opponents, like the Center for Biological Diversity’s southwest advocate Joe Trudeau, say they are more concerned with the safety and environmental issues the mine would bring. According to Trudeau, the benefit does not outweigh the risk.

“How much more of our public lands are we going to sacrifice for the profit of a few?” Trudeau asked. “That’s really the question here.”