PHOENIX -- A proposed Curis Resources copper mine near Florence, Ariz. has been granted a permit to inject sulfuric acid deep underground to leach the metal from the surrounding rock.
The state Department of Environmental Quality issued the permit on Friday.
Canadian company Curis is proposing the mine on state trust land. It is opposed by the Florence Town Council and real estate developers.
Curis legal adviser Rita Maguire tells the Arizona Republic the DEQ permit shows the process is safe and the mine can operate. A real estate developers' spokesman says the permit doesn't give Curis the right to do anything.
The permit will take effect only after a public hearing and resolution of appeals.