1969
Copper Discovered
Copper discovered on the Florence Copper site after a geologist from American Smelting & Refining Co. (ASARCO) sees evidence of mineralization on nearby Poston Butte Mountain.
Timeline of Florence Copper
Timeline
1969
1970
1970
Mining Explored
Continental Oil Company (Conoco) investigates developing the Florence Copper deposit using traditional mining methods, constructing two 700-foot shafts and one mile of underground cross-cuts (horizontal tunnels). On-site testing shows the deposit’s unique hydrogeological conditions make traditional mining unfeasible.
1992
1992
Magma Copper Company
1992 to 1996: Florence Copper property acquired by Magma Copper Company. Magma evaluates potential for in-situ copper recovery (ISCR) operations.
1996
1996
BHP Copper
1996 to 1998: Magma acquired by BHP Copper. BHP conducts geological and hydrological test work and initiates an ISCR pilot test, including installation of 67 injection, production and monitoring wells. ISCR is proven to be safe and effective.
2000
2000
BHP Defers Mining Operations
2000: BHP defers mining operations due to low metal prices. Property acquired by Merrill Ranch Investments LLC.
2009
2009
Curis Resources
2009-2010: Mineral exploration and development company Curis Resources acquires the Florence Copper property. A project team is assembled to advance the project toward development.
2011
2011
Permitting & Engineering
2011-2014: Curis undertakes engineering programs, environmental studies, and community engagement in support of project permitting.
2014
2014
Taseko Mines
2014: Curis acquired by Vancouver-based copper miner Taseko Mines Limited.
2014
Advanced Permitting
2014-2017: Florence Copper team advances federal and state permitting for ISCR project.
2017
2017
Production Test Facility
2017: Construction of Production Test Facility (PTF) begins.
2019
2019
First Copper Cathode Produced
2019: Florence Copper PTF achieves first copper cathode production using ISCR.
2019
Over One Million Pounds of Copper
2019-2023: Over one million pounds of copper cathode produced under PTF. Advanced permitting of commercial facilities continues.
2023
2023
Major Permits Finalized
2023: Major permits finalized, and preparation for construction of commercial operations begins.
2025
2025
Commercial Production Facilities Finalized
2025: Construction of commercial production facilities finalized, and commercial wellfield operations commenced.
