Mariposa mining projects gain momentum amid critical metals push

MARIPOSA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Mining activity is expanding in Mariposa County as companies work to develop projects focused on critical metals, including silver, copper and zinc.

Blue Moon Metals is developing the Blue Moon Mine, located at a preexisting underground mine site just over a mile from Hornitos. Company officials say the project has gained momentum over the past year, targeting metals that have remained untouched for decades.

Christian Kargl-Simard, the company's CEO, said work is already nearing the ore body after significant investment in underground development.

"What Blue Moon is doing happens once in a blue moon in the mining business," Simard said.

"We're basically near the ore already right now. We spent over 20 million US on that development," he said.

According to Simard, a crew of about 25 people is currently developing an underground tunnel at the site.

The company plans to be fully operational by 2029, shipping metals to its Nevada processing facility before beginning sales.

"This mine, integrated with our Nevada processing facility, should generate $ 50 million in free cash flow for about 10 years," Simard said.

Blue Moon Metals is not the only company investing in mining projects in the area. Lode Gold is also working in Mariposa County at the historic Fremont Mine.

Images of the Fremont Mine show changes over time, with one photo dating to 1939 and another taken this year. Visible red-brown coloration on nearby hillsides is gold oxide.

Mining companies have also benefited from policy changes aimed at encouraging development. President Donald Trump designated Mariposa as an Opportunity Zone, providing tax incentives for companies. In March of last year, he signed an executive order intended to help fast-track the permitting process for mining projects.

"The fact that critical metals are such an important topic in the United States today has bipartisan support. It's sitting there, quantifiable with very strong economics, is another piece," Simard said.

Not everyone supports the increased mining activity. Environmental groups, including Earthworks, have criticized Trump's order, saying it removes protections for communities and the environment.

Simard said building trust with local residents has taken time, but he believes many in the area support reopening mines and recovering valuable metals.

"Jobs for now, taxes in the short term, and not a long-term environmental legacy," Simard said.

For news and weather updates, follow Brisa Colón on Facebook, X and Instagram.