Judge Delays Oak Flat Land Swap as Apache Tribe Challenges Mine

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Judge Dominic Lanza grants tribes 60-day window to challenge controversial Oak Flat land swap after environmental review release.

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Oak Flat isn't just land to Apache tribes—it's where they believe holy spirits dwell and sacred ceremonies take place.

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What happens when a copper mine worth billions meets a site considered as sacred as a church?

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Resolution Copper plans would transform this spiritual site into a crater nearly two miles wide and 1,000 feet deep.

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"This is our church," says tribal advocate—but mining companies promise thousands of jobs and $1 billion annually to Arizona's economy.

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How did this controversy start? A land swap law tucked into a 2014 defense bill that many say bypassed proper debate.

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Environmental groups warn: The mine would drain 250 billion gallons of water in drought-stricken Arizona.

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The legal battle has already reached the Supreme Court once—and it's far from over.

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August 19: The earliest date Oak Flat could be transferred as tribes race to file amended complaints by July 14.

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Who decides when economic interests outweigh cultural heritage? This case may set precedent for sacred lands nationwide.

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