KGUN 9 On Your Side, Tucson News, Weather & SportsInterior Secretary tours proposed Ariz. mine site
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Associated Press - August 21, 2009 7:54 PM ET
PHOENIX (AP) - Interior Secretary Kenneth Salazar says compromise is possible on a proposed copper mine in southeastern Arizona that's thought to contain the largest undeveloped deposit of high-grade copper in the world.
Salazar joined Sen. John McCain and Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick at a public forum Friday attended by mine supporters and opponents. Salazar also met with tribal leaders who oppose the project in Superior.
Environmentalists also oppose the mine and the proposed swap of federal lands that would allow its development by Resolution Copper Mining. But mine supporters say it would provide jobs, economic growth and a steady stream of tax dollars for decades.
McCain and Sen. Jon Kyl, both Republicans, are backing legislation in the Senate authorizing the swap of federal and private lands. Kirkpatrick, a Democrat, introduced it in the House this session.
Salazar and the Obama administration haven't yet agreed to formally support the bill.
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