Excelsior Mining has commenced construction at the past-producing Johnson Camp mine in southeast Arizona with first copper production anticipated in the first half of 2025. The company is working with Rio Tinto venture Nuton to restart the operation.
“The commencement of leach pad construction marks a key milestone in Excelsior’s partnership with Nuton. The M3 and Rango team we have assembled is world class and committed to delivering a safe and timely project,” said Robert Winton, SVP operations and general manager of Johnson Camp.
Tucson-based M3 Engineering has been awarded the EPCM contract, while Rango Inc. of Mesa was awarded the leach pad construction and overliner crushing contract.
“The opportunity to build and operate Nuton’s first demonstration of their state-of-the-art copper leaching technology is a privilege Excelsior and our team is proud to deliver,” added Winton.
To facilitate the start of these activities, Nuton recently provided funding of $7.9 million through August.
Johnson Camp includes two open pits, a fully functioning SX-EW plant capable of producing 25 million pounds of cathode copper per year, a complete set of PLS and raffinate ponds, and full infrastructure.
Source: Excelsior Mining