09 MARCH 2026
We’ve reached an important milestone in the federal permitting process for Hermosa, with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) indicating it would approve Hermosa’s development onto National Forest Service land.
While we already have all the permits we need to develop Hermosa’s initial surface infrastructure on South32 private land, this FEIS and publication of the Draft ROD relate to development of the project beyond our existing footprint, which is on adjacent USFS land. This will enable us to build ancillary infrastructure, such as a primary access road and a secondary dry-stack tailings facility, as well as for a third party to build of a portion of a 138kv power line on USFS land, to provide power to the project.
Pat Risner, Hermosa President said the decision reflected years of listening, collaboration, and real changes shaped by community input.
“This draft decision affirms our design and development approach including mitigation measures as described in the Final Environmental Impact Statement, that were informed through agency and public consultation,” Pat said.
Brent Musslewhite, Environment and Permitting Director at Hermosa, said he was proud of the team for their efforts to get the FEIS over the line.
“This is a significant milestone for Hermosa,” Brent said.
“Getting a major mining project through an EIS process in less than two years is almost unheard of and testament to the quality of our people, plans and work. I couldn’t be prouder to work with such amazing teams,” he said.
As part of the federal FAST-41 permitting program, the USFS conducted a thorough, independent analysis of Hermosa’s possible environmental impacts, with the Draft ROD determining that the proposal would result in the least surface disturbance on National Forest Service lands, compared to alternatives. This means a more compact project footprint, and fewer impacts to air quality, water resources, cultural sites, recreation, wildlife habitat, and nearby communities.
Topics