Residents urge action against Copper World for groundwater protection in Sahuarita

During the recent Town Council meeting on March 24, 2025, in Sahuarita, Arizona, significant concerns were raised regarding the potential environmental impacts of the proposed Copper World mining project. Community members voiced urgent warnings about the implications for local groundwater resources, which are already under severe stress due to prolonged drought conditions in the region.

A key point of discussion highlighted that Copper World is projected to consume approximately 13,630 acre-feet of groundwater annually—equivalent to over 4.4 billion gallons. This level of extraction could severely affect the water supply for the growing population of Sahuarita and surrounding areas, which currently stands at around 80,000 residents. The long-term depletion of groundwater resources could have dire consequences for the community, particularly as the project is expected to last for 44 years.

Concerns were also raised about the environmental degradation associated with the mining operations. The construction of roads for mining activities is reportedly obstructing natural water flow to the Santa Cruz and Gil Rivers, which could harm local ecosystems and agricultural irrigation. This disruption could further exacerbate the already critical water scarcity in the Colorado River basin, where Arizona shares resources with six other states.

In addition to quantity concerns, the purity of groundwater was a major topic. Residents expressed alarm over potential contamination from mining waste, including heavy metals and toxic substances such as arsenic and uranium. Reports indicate that the levels of these contaminants in local drinking water already exceed health guidelines by alarming margins. For instance, arsenic levels in some areas were reported to be up to 2,000 times higher than acceptable limits.

The community's health implications were underscored by alarming statistics linking cancer rates to environmental factors, with cancer now being the leading cause of death among young adults in the United States. Residents fear that the legacy of contamination from mining operations could mirror the public health crises seen in places like Flint, Michigan.

As the meeting concluded, community members urged local leaders to advocate for stricter oversight and protection of Sahuarita's water resources. The discussions reflect a growing urgency among residents to address environmental concerns and safeguard their health and water supply against the backdrop of industrial development. The council's response and subsequent actions will be crucial in determining the future of both the community's environment and public health.