Copperwood Mine, Copper Mining Advances in Sustainable Extraction Techniques

1. Copperwood Mine, Copper Mining Advances in Sustainable Extraction Techniques The Copperwood Mine is a developing copper mining project located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, owned by Canadian company Highland Copper. It is currently in the pre- construction phase on a greenfield site near the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The project is designed to operate for about 10 to 14 years, focusing on extracting copper from sediment-hosted stratiform deposits. The mine is expected to produce around 64.6 million pounds of copper over its lifespan, making it a significant addition to the regional mining industry.The project plans to use room-and-pillar mining methods suited to the orebody's geology and aims to create hundreds of jobs, contributing to local economic growth. Highland Copper has been advancing the project steadily, including obtaining updated permits and nearing the completion of its engineering design. While some political and funding challenges have occurred, development continues based on the approved plans and environmental regulations. Copperwood Mine Overview The Copperwood Mine is a developing project focused on copper extraction with significant potential for long-term production. It is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and is owned by a Canadian company specializing in copper mining ventures. The project remains in the pre-construction phase, targeting efficient and environmentally compliant development. Location and Geology Copperwood Mine is situated near the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, along the southern shore of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The site occupies greenfield terrain, indicating it is a new mining location without prior industrial development. The deposit consists chiefly of sediment-hosted stratiform copper mineralization, a key geological setting known for economically viable copper concentrations. The surrounding area features strict environmental regulations, ensuring mining operations must adhere to Michigan’s stringent standards. This geology supports an estimated mine life of about 10 to 14 years. History of the Copperwood Mine Development on the Copperwood Mine began under Orvana Minerals before acquisition by Highland Copper in 2014. Since then, the project has progressed through detailed engineering, metallurgical testing, and permitting stages but has remained in pre- construction. Highland Copper has maintained focus on moving the mine rapidly toward commercial production, emphasizing capital efficiency and sustainability. The property retains full

2. permits issued prior to acquisition, which simplifies regulatory advances relative to other greenfield projects. Major Operators and Stakeholders Highland Copper is the sole owner and developer of Copperwood Mine through its U.S. subsidiary, Copperwood Resources Inc. The company handles full operational control, including environmental management and technical development. Key technical partners include G Mining Services, involved in resource estimation and economic assessments, and Golder Associates, responsible for tailings dam design and water management systems. Stakeholders also involve local environmental groups supporting mining under strict state regulations, reflecting a collaborative approach between industry and advocacy organizations. Copper Mining Operations and Impact The Copperwood Mine uses underground Copper Mining techniques focused on sediment- hosted stratiform copper deposits. It emphasizes efficient ore extraction, processing, and refinement methods to maximize productivity. The project also generates significant economic benefits while addressing environmental concerns through waste management and sustainability practices. Mining Techniques and Processes Copperwood employs deep underground mining to access copper deposits located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The method involves careful excavation below the surface, minimizing disruption to the surrounding area while targeting high-grade ore bodies. The project uses updated cut-off grades to determine economically viable material. Equipment and mining techniques are periodically revised based on market prices, labor surveys, and operational costs, ensuring cost-effective extraction. This strategic approach aims for a mine life of 10 to 14 years. Ore Processing and Refinement After extraction, ore undergoes processing to separate copper from waste rock. The mine expects to produce around 64.6 million pounds of copper during its operation. The process generates a high ratio of waste—approximately 98.5% of the material is tailings. These tailings contain potentially harmful elements such as arsenic and mercury. Managing this waste safely is critical to minimizing environmental and health risks. Economic Contributions Copperwood is projected to create about 380 direct mining jobs in the region. Additionally, construction and operational spending are expected to generate roughly 313 indirect jobs, boosting the local economy.

3. The mine’s operation supports community growth and regional development by increasing tax revenues and business for local service providers. These economic benefits are central to stakeholder support and the project's integration into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Environmental Management and Sustainability The Copperwood project must address the challenge of large volumes of tailings with toxic elements. Handling over 30 million tons of tailings requires robust environmental safeguards to prevent contamination of soil and water. Highland Copper commits to monitoring and mitigating environmental impacts through waste containment systems and ongoing assessment. Compliance with environmental regulations is a key focus to balance mining productivity with ecological protection.