The Superior Town Council has unanimously approved a major water agreement with Resolution Copper, securing a long-term commitment of more than $20 million for water mitigation efforts aimed at safeguarding and improving the community’s water future.
“For the past several years, our town worked vigorously to ensure that Superior’s water future is protected,” said Superior Mayor Mila Besich. “This agreement is a ‘first of its kind’ in Arizona with a mining company, and once again, as is Superior’s tradition, we have blazed a new trail in maximizing the benefits of mining for small towns. It ensures meaningful investment in our community, strengthens our long-term water security and delivers real benefits to Queen Creek and our residents. We appreciate the commitment shown in reaching this milestone.”
The agreement is the product of years of collaboration and independent, science-based technical studies by dozens of scientists and engineers from universities, federal and state regulatory agencies and third-party water consultants. It delivers a comprehensive, community-focused plan that addresses both historical and future water needs while supporting sustainable growth in Superior.
At its core is a multi-faceted water mitigation package that will restore the natural flow of Queen Creek which has not occurred for decades; remove debris and invasive vegetation; rehabilitate or reconstruct the existing infiltration gallery; establish a $5 million endowment for long-term restoration, conservation, and watershed management efforts; and strengthen long-term water security.
With unanimous council approval, the agreement marks an important step forward in the partnership between Superior and Resolution Copper, delivering lasting environmental, infrastructure and water security benefits for current and future generations.
