Letter: We need metals AND water is precious

Contrary to the statement in Mort Rosenbaum’s August 3rd “Yes, we need mining — but the real crisis is water," it isn't easier to “gouge out ore in America” than in foreign locales. The easy copper was mined out during the prior 2 centuries. Arizona leads the U.S. in overall mineral production and continues to be attractive to investors because it’s a globally known copper province, has an experienced workforce and vendors, and offers political stability and a well understood legal and regulatory framework. The investment in modern, responsible, and sustainable methods to mine and process today’s complex mineral deposits costs billions and takes years to permit, therefore often requiring a consortium of companies to pool funding resources. Arizona operators are highly motivated to find new ways to reduce evaporation and water use in the processing circuit and to maximize recycling because water is precious and a matter of their survival. These professionals work daily to optimize water reuse and minimize impacts to the environment and communities.