Copper mines in arizona targeted for reopening by BHP

BHP, the global mining giant, is evaluating plans to restart operations at at least three copper mines in Arizona that were previously shuttered, as part of a broader push to shore up supply amid growing demand for critical minerals. The mines under consideration were closed in prior years due to declining ore grades or unfavorable economics, but improved copper market conditions have renewed interest.

Among the potential targets is the Bagdad Mine, which was closed by Freeport-McMoRan, and the Hermosa Project (Rendino copper deposit), both located in central and southern Arizona. BHP has begun conducting updated geological assessments, metallurgical studies, and infrastructure reviews to determine viability. The company also aims to test modern extraction and processing technologies to lower costs and environmental impacts compared to historical operations.

Reactivating these mines would require significant civil, structural, and environmental engineering work. Tailings storage facilities, water management systems, waste rock disposal designs, and remediation of legacy infrastructure all demand thorough planning. Geotechnical evaluations are needed to ensure the stability of open pit walls, underground access systems, and foundation support for processing plants. Upgrades to power, roads, and water conveyance networks must also be aligned with local permitting and sustainability constraints.

Technical innovations play a key role in feasibility. BHP is likely to explore in-situ copper leach techniques, automation of drilling and haulage, sensor-based ore sorting, and energy-efficient processing to sustainably lower capital and operational expenditure. Such approaches could enable economically viable production even from lower-grade or more complex ore bodies.

Although BHP has not yet committed to reopening timelines or capital investment, the revived interest reflects broader trends in the mining industry, where infrastructure and technical modernization make once-marginal projects potentially viable again.