Hermosa documents
Hermosa has the potential to be a globally significant producer of metals critical to a low carbon future
In August 2018, we completed the acquisition of Hermosa in the Patagonia Mountains, about 80 kilometres south-east of Tucson, Arizona. Hermosa comprises the zinc-lead-silver Taylor sulphide deposit (Taylor Deposit), the zinc-manganese-silver Clark oxide deposit (Clark Deposit) and an extensive, highly prospective land package with the potential for further polymetallic and copper mineralisation.
Hermosa strongly complements our existing portfolio and provides the opportunity to leverage the underground mining and processing methods we've used at our Cannington operation in Queensland, Australia.
Our work at Hermosa is part of our strategy to reshape our portfolio and increase exposure to the metals critical for a low carbon future. Zinc is used in renewable energy infrastructure and to protect against corrosion, while silver is used in solar panels and electric vehicles.
We have completed a Pre-feasibility Study (PFS) for the Taylor Deposit, our first development option at Hermosa. It is a large, carbonate replacement massive sulphide deposit with a Mineral Resource estimate of 138Mt, averaging 3.82% zinc, 4.25% lead and 81 g/t silver. The deposit remains open at depth and laterally, offering further exploration potential.
We are designing the Taylor Deposit to be our first ‘next generation mine’, applying low-carbon design principles in line with our goal of net zero operational carbon emissions by 2050. Learn more about the PFS here. The Taylor Deposit has progressed to a feasibility study, ahead of a planned final investment decision in mid-calendar year 2023.
A scoping study for the spatially linked Clark Deposit has confirmed the potential for an integrated underground mining operation producing battery-grade manganese, as well as zinc and silver. Clark has the potential to underpin an additional development stage at Hermosa, with future studies to consider the opportunity to integrate its development with Taylor. We have subsequently commenced a PFS for the Clark Deposit.
The Clark Deposit has a reported resource of 55 million tonnes, averaging 2.31% zinc, 9.08% manganese and 78g/t silver. Read the announcement here.
Our third focus at Hermosa is unlocking value through the exploration of our regional scale land package. We have identified a highly prospective corridor which will be prioritised for future drilling.
To take an interactive tour and explore the Taylor Deposit please click here. Google Chrome is recommended.
Learn about groundwater management at Hermosa.
Get in touch with Hermosa
Pat studied Mining Engineering at the University of Missouri and came to South32 from BHP, where he held the position of Group Health, Safety and Environment Officer. He is an experienced mining operator, having worked in technical, planning and operational roles in both the United States and Australia. With strong leadership experience in mining health, safety, and environment, he is regarded as an industry expert in complex project planning and development.
Corporate Affairs
Hermosa Project
2210 E Fort Lowell Road
Tucson
Arizona 85719
United States of America
Phone: +1 520 485 1300
Email: [email protected]