Facebook Twitter Email
JULY 19, 2000

The Department of Interior confirmed they are negotiating to buy the White Vulcan mine in the San Francisco peaks in Arizona. The mine is owned by Tufflite Corporation, a Phoenix- based company.

The goverment purchase would close the pumice mine and begin a new chapter in the struggle to preserve the peaks, which are considered sacred to tribes in New Mexico and Arizona.

According to the Arizona Daily Sun, the Interior and the company are negotiating to end mining immediately and begin restoration of about 90 acres of strip-mined land. The Sun also said Tufflite will be paid an undisclosed sum and allow the company to continue to sell pumice from the mine.

The Arizona Republic reports that the company will cease operations within six months of the agreement's approval by Congress.

Coconino National Forest officials have recommended that the mountain be withdrawn from additional mining under the 1872 Mining Law. Secretary of Interior Bruce Babbitt, who will make the final approval, is on record as opposing mining on the peak.

Related Stories:
Protection of sacred mountain urged (Enviro 7/14)

Relevant Links:
The Arizona Daily Sun - www.azdailysun.com
The Arizona Republic - www.azcentral.com
The Department of Interior - www.doi.gov
US Forest Service - www.fs.fed.us