Summer Exploration

The Black Butte Copper Project, developed by Sandfire Resources America Inc., is located near White Sulphur Springs, Montana, approximately 20 miles north of the town in the Smith River Valley. The project aims to extract high-grade copper from the Johnny Lee deposit, which includes two main zones: the Upper Copper Zone and the Lower Copper Zone. While the project promises economic benefits such as job creation and increased local revenues, it has also raised environmental concerns due to its proximity to the Smith River, with potential impacts on water quality and the ecosystem. The project has undergone various regulatory approvals, including environmental impact assessments and public consultations, and plans to use underground mining techniques to minimize surface disturbance. Throughout the lengthy process, the mine has committed itself to proper environmental stewardship and has integrated itself into the community through its support of numerous local organizations, causes, and students at the local school. This July, Black Butte Copper will host its third annual Summer STEM Camp exclusively for students in the 3rd through 6th grades of the White Sulphur Springs School. Throughout the multi-day camp, students are expected to learn about the world of STEM, sparking interest in further exploration of science-related topics. Over the course of three days, attending students will experience hands-on and engaging activities featuring geology, hydrology, astronomy, engineering, ecology, and future career pathways in relation to STEM. The 2024 Summer STEM Program is a free camp for any student of the White Sulphur Springs School enrolled in the 3rd through 6th grades during the 2023-24 school year. Lunches, snacks, and other supplies are provided for the kids, along with t-shirts for participants. The camp will be held from 9:00 a.m.to 4:00 p.m.from Monday, July 29 through Wednesday, July 31. During this time, students will travel by bus to the future Black Butte Copper mine site, experiencing the famous project firsthand. Parents or guardians interested in registering their students for the upcoming Summer STEM Camp may do so through (https://forms.gle/WJ4LB6uZ3gx9gL669). Photo via Black Butte Copper Instagram Page (@blackbuttecopper).