Mission Mine Project

What is Mined and Where?

Zircon Sands

Zircon sand found in Georgia (Deposit Formation) is one of the few commercially and economically viable sources in the U.S. This important feedstock will be the sole source of domestic ore for Zirconium Oxychloride (ZOC) crystal production and is critical to national security interests. Currently nearly 100% of ZOC crystal availability comes from non-domestic sources, principally China. Zircon sand is transported to Zirconium Oxychloride (ZOC) plants for further processing into ZOC crystals, which eventually become the feedstock for zirconium production for applications in the national defense, medical, and consumer products industries. Zirconium Uses.

Mining is one of the oldest industries in Georgia. Mining production averages 4 million tons of sand processed per year, contributing $15 million to the state economy annually while providing for nearly 50 direct jobs. The mine will yield 13,000 tons per year of zircon sand, affecting roughly 120 acres annually, with a total impact over 10 to 11 years of less than 2,000 acres. The proposed project will have an active footprint of approximately 30 acres at any given time, but this footprint moves as new pits are opened and old ones are reclaimed. The top 10 feet to 20 feet of surface sand will be disturbed and 97% of the material will be returned to the mined area. The mining plan's (See: Mining Process) reclamation will have negligible environmental impacts (See: Environmental, Conservation and Permitting).

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