Story updated with new information on May 9, 2024:
A massive $2 billion underground mine is currently in the process of becoming a reality in Santa Cruz County.
It's being called the 'Hermosa Critical Minerals Project.' The company South32 is looking to build the mine mainly on private lands in the Patagonia Mountains.
According to the company, the project is currently the only advanced mining initiative in the U.S. to produce two "federally designated critical materials." The mine would produce zinc and manganese, which will help to fuel new clean energy projects.
South32 has requested to expand development of the mine onto land that is currently managed by the Coronado National Forest Service. In order for the company to gain approval from the forest service, the public must have a chance to weigh in on the project first. This will then allow the forest service to create an environmental impact statement for the project.
There will be an open house for the project on Monday, May 20th, at Patagonia Union High School. Its taking place from 4:30 to 6:30 at night. There will be another open house on Tuesday, May 21st, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hotel Americana in Nogales.
Neighbors interested in providing feedback can also drop off their comments at the Coronado National Forest Service office in downtown Tucson, located near Stone Avenue and Congress Street.
More information on the project can be found here.
