Economic Impact

Economic Impact

Copperwood will create opportunities for young
people and future generations.

Revitalizing Communities

The Western UP has suffered industry closures, hospital closures, declining school populations, and degrading regional infrastructure.

Creating Quality Jobs

The Copperwood Project will create approximately 700 direct and in-direct good-paying jobs in the Western Upper Peninsula.

Investing in Futures

The Copperwood Project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $425 million, creating a ripple effect that will support small businesses, local schools and public services for years to come.

Copperwood is critical to the future of the Western UP.

The Western U.P. has faced decades of challenges, from industry and hospital closures to shrinking school populations and deteriorating infrastructure, which have made it difficult to retain workers and attract new families. The Copperwood Project represents a rare opportunity to reverse those trends and allow the region to compete in the 21st-century economy.

Sustainable Development Key Statistics

Construction Phase 

  • $425M
    Investment over ~3 years
  • 300
    Construction jobs
  • $74M/year
    Added to Michigan’s gross state product during Copperwood site construction
  • $4.5M/year
    Local, county, and state tax revenue annually during the 3 year construction period

Operational Phase

  • 11+ Years
    Initial operating period
  • 700 Jobs
    380 direct, 320 indirect
  • $1,212M
    LOM opex
  • $270M
    Sustaining capex
  • $62.7M
    LOM Michigan Severance Tax
  • $130M/year
    Business spending from Copperwood site operations
  • $12M/year
    Local, county, and state tax revenue from Copperwood site operations

Closure & Legacy

  • $58M
    Closure cost over multi-year period
  • 16+ Years
    Potential economic impact 

Long-term Economic Benefits

Infrastructure Legacy

Infrastructure Legacy

Sustainable infrastructure improvements that remain after mining operations conclude, benefiting local communities for decades.

Mining Expertise Development

Mining Expertise Development

Continuing the UP’s mining legacy alongside White Pine, Talon, Eagle, and other operations while demonstrating modern sustainable mining practices.

Community Development

Community Development

Long-term investment in local communities through job creation, tax revenues, and economic diversification.