Copper company gets air permit from ADEQ for mine
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TUCSON -- Rosemont Copper now has an air-quality permit for it to operate a mine southeast of Tucson.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality says it reviewed Rosemont Copper's computerized air pollution forecasts.
ADEQ says it found the mine's emissions wouldn't violate any federal air standards for carbon monoxide, nitrogen and sulfur dioxide, or fine and large particles.
The permit came despite many concerns from opponents that the mine would send high levels of dust or hazardous pollutants into the air and reduce visibility at Saguaro National Park East.
The Arizona Daily Star says Rosemont Copper needs only final approval from the Forest Service on its environmental impact statement and a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit to start construction. It will also have to survive an expected court challenge.
