Steve Trussell Executive Director ARIZONA MINING ASSOCIATION (AMA)
What is the role of the Arizona Mining Association and how has membership evolved recently?
At the AMA, we focus on federal, state and local policy, regulatory work, and community relations. Our primary concern has been understanding how political shifts will impact mining and ensuring our 13 committees, composed of various mining companies, address key issues effectively. Additionally, we emphasize community relations, striving to unite mining communities and engage in meaningful projects that enhance these areas.
We have seen a significant increase in membership in exploration and development companies. Arizona boasts an incredible geological and mineral endowment, with much still to be developed. What are recent advances in the Arizona mining sector?
The supreme court’s decision for Resolution was huge. The Cactus mine of Arizona Sonoran recently achieved a significant milestone by being included in the city’s general planning amendment. If they can get the mine operational, it would become the eighth largest copper producer in the US. Florence Copper, which is currently under construction, will have a mine life of ~22 years, mineral reserves of 320 million t grading 0.36% copper, and an annual production capacity of 85 million lb of LME Grade A copper cathode produced onsite. As one of the lowest-GHG sources of new US copper production, Florence Copper is expected to herald a new era of American mining in support of net-zero. How is the AMA addressing challenges to advance the industry?
We are working to address the skilled labor shortage through career technical education (CTE) programs. We want people to understand how sophisticated the mining industry is. People’s perception of mining of the past is not accurate today. Mining is a significant contributor to Arizona’s economy. We are working to keep mining viable, responsible, and sustainable so we can continue to enhance the quality of people’s lives.
Amanda Hilton President NEVADA MINING ASSOCIATION (NVMA)
What are recent milestones reached by the Nevada mining industry and the association?
Nevada has solidified its position as a national leader in lithium development, thanks to a collaborative effort between public and private entities. In 2023, the University of Nevada, Reno was designated a US technology hub, attracting federal funding that supports workforce development and Native American affairs. Nevada's ‘lithium loop’ now encompasses the full lithium value chain—from mining to battery production and recycling. With the only operational lithium mine in the US and two additional mines set to launch soon, Nevada is strengthening its role in supplying critical minerals essential for the nation's energy future. The state also produces key minerals like barium, magnesium and copper, further contributing to diverse industries. What is the state's production and socioeconomic profile?
Nevada's mineral production is extensive, covering 20 minerals with gold as the largest output. If Nevada were a country, it would rank as the sixth-largest gold producer globally, accounting for approximately 73% of the gold mined in the US. In 2023, mining contributed over US$12 billion to Nevada's economic output. The industry supports more than 30,000 jobs. How does the NVMA engage with schools to educate the younger generation?
With a significant portion of our skilled workforce nearing retirement, we're intensifying outreach to younger students to introduce them to mining careers before high school. Our education committee is expanding efforts across Nevada, utilizing digital and social media to connect with today's youth where they consume information and showcase modern mining opportunities. How is Nevada's mining industry responding to the climate crisis?
Nevada's mining industry contributes to combating climate change both through the essential minerals it produces for renewable technologies and its own sustainability initiatives. For instance, Nevada Gold Mines recently installed a 200-megawatt solar facility and secured a federal grant for additional solar installations, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.