Coronado National Forest releases draft decision for Hermosa Critical Minerals Project

(Tucson, AZ, March 5, 2026) — The Coronado National Forest will publish a notice of availability in the Federal Register, initiating a 45-day objection period, and has made the Final Environmental Impact Statement and Draft Record of Decision for the Hermosa Critical Minerals Project available to the public. 

The Hermosa Project is home to one of the world’s largest undeveloped zinc resources and stands as a strategic investment in America’s energy future. This project directly supports U.S. energy and security needs and advances Executive Orders 14154 (Unleashing American Energy), 14156 (Declaring a National Energy Emergency), and 14241 (Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production), reinforcing the administration’s commitment to securing critical mineral supply chains.  

South32 Hermosa, Inc., an Australia-based mining and metals company, is proposing a $2.16 billion mining and processing operation in a historic mining district in Santa Cruz County, Arizona. The project will support the local economy by creating up to 900 jobs locally and thousands more through economic activity.

The Forest Service is initiating a 45-day objection period. Objections must come from individuals or entities that previously submitted specific written comments during scoping or other designated comment periods, in accordance with 36 CFR 218.5(a). Issues raised in objections must be based on those comments unless they involve new information that became available after the comment period.  

Once the documents are published, objections may be submitted to the reviewing officer, Southwestern Regional Forester, via mail, email, express delivery, or messenger service to 333 Broadway Blvd. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102, or by email to objections-southwestern-regional-office@usda.gov. Please include “CNF Hermosa Critical Minerals Project” in the subject line. Mailed objections must be postmarked by the final day of the objection period and received before the close of business on the fifth day after the period ends. Electronic comments are preferred and can be submitted on the project website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/coronado/projects/65668 (under the heading “Get Connected,” select Comment/Object on Project). The Forest Service strongly encourages electronic submissions. 

Individuals who use telecommunication devices may call the Federal Information Relay Service at 800-877-8339, 24 hours a day, including holidays.