One of the largest open-pit mines
Kennecott Copper Mine
Major source of copper ore
Elevation:
9,000 Feet
The Kennecott Copper Mine in Utah is a major source of copper ore and one of the largest open-pit mines in the world. Located just outside of Salt Lake City, this mine has been mined since 1906 and provides jobs to more than 1,200 people each year. The mine produces nearly two million tons of copper every year, making it the third-largest copper mine in the United States.
One of the most notable things about this mine is its size. It is over 4,000 feet deep and 2.5 miles wide – enough to fit 25 football fields within its walls! In total, an estimated 14 billion tons of ore have been mined from this site since its opening. The ore is extracted from the ground through a process called open-pit mining. This method creates large pits in the ground and involves blasting, drilling, and hauling away layers of soil and rock to access the ore underneath.
Kennecott has been around for over a century, but it wasn’t until recently that it became an attraction for visitors. The mine offers tours that give visitors an up-close view of the operations and a chance to learn about the history of copper mining in Utah.
The Kennecott Copper Mine is also home to some interesting wildlife. Several eagle species live in the area, including golden eagles, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks. In addition to the birds, various species of mammals also inhabit the area, such as bobcats, coyotes, and mule deer. Keeping these animals safe is a priority for the mine operators – noise reduction efforts have been put in place to keep wildlife away from operations at all times.
The Kennecott Copper Mine in Herriman, Utah is an important part of the local economy, providing jobs for the community and contributing to the state’s GDP. It also provides a valuable natural resource – copper ore – which is used for electrical wiring and in many other industrial processes.
One of the most notable things about this mine is its size. It is over 4,000 feet deep and 2.5 miles wide – enough to fit 25 football fields within its walls! In total, an estimated 14 billion tons of ore have been mined from this site since its opening. The ore is extracted from the ground through a process called open-pit mining. This method creates large pits in the ground and involves blasting, drilling, and hauling away layers of soil and rock to access the ore underneath.
Kennecott has been around for over a century, but it wasn’t until recently that it became an attraction for visitors. The mine offers tours that give visitors an up-close view of the operations and a chance to learn about the history of copper mining in Utah.
The Kennecott Copper Mine is also home to some interesting wildlife. Several eagle species live in the area, including golden eagles, bald eagles, and red-tailed hawks. In addition to the birds, various species of mammals also inhabit the area, such as bobcats, coyotes, and mule deer. Keeping these animals safe is a priority for the mine operators – noise reduction efforts have been put in place to keep wildlife away from operations at all times.
The Kennecott Copper Mine in Herriman, Utah is an important part of the local economy, providing jobs for the community and contributing to the state’s GDP. It also provides a valuable natural resource – copper ore – which is used for electrical wiring and in many other industrial processes.
Geology
The geology at the Kennecott Copper Mine is fascinating, as it contains several different types of rocks. The main type of rock in this area is porphyry, which consists of interlocking crystals and often has reddish-orange hues. It is thought that this rock formed from molten magma over time due to volcanic activity in the region. Other types of rock found in the area include limestone and sandstone.
History
The first copper ore was discovered in the Kennecott Copper Mine area in 1903 and mining operations began shortly thereafter. The mine quickly became a major producer of copper, producing up to 60% of the world’s supply at its peak. Operations at the mine continued until 1938 when they were suspended due to World War II. After the war, the mine was reopened and stayed open until 1985.
Today, the Kennecott Copper Mine in Herriman, Utah is still open to visitors and offers tours of its facilities. It is a testament to the mining industry’s past as well as a reminder of the importance of copper to our modern world. Thanks to this historic mine, the state of Utah will continue to benefit economically and environmentally for many years to come.
Today, the Kennecott Copper Mine in Herriman, Utah is still open to visitors and offers tours of its facilities. It is a testament to the mining industry’s past as well as a reminder of the importance of copper to our modern world. Thanks to this historic mine, the state of Utah will continue to benefit economically and environmentally for many years to come.
Wildlife
In addition to its mining operations, the Kennecott Copper Mine is also home to a variety of wildlife. Eagles, hawks, and other birds can be seen flying in the area looking for food. Mammals such as bobcats, coyotes, and mule deer can also be found in the area. Keeping these animals safe is a priority of the mine operators, and they have implemented noise reduction methods to keep wildlife away from operations at all times.
Visitors Center
The Kennecott Copper Mine has established a Visitor Center which offers educational tours of the mine as well as exhibits on its history. Visitors can also participate in special events such as bird-watching, geology hikes, and night walks. Other activities available at the center include gold panning, gemstone collecting, and lectures about mining operations.
Planning a trip to Four Corners Monument
When planning a trip to the Kennecott Copper Mine, visitors should be aware that it can get quite cold in the winter months. The mine is open year-round, but snow and ice make some areas inaccessible during this time of year. Visitors should also make sure to bring proper clothing and footwear as there are many steep inclines within the mine. The Visitor Center and other facilities are available year-round for guests to enjoy.
lodging/camping
Lodging is available in the nearby cities of Salt Lake City and Magna, Utah. There are also several campgrounds located near the mine that offer overnight accommodations. For those looking for a more luxurious stay, there are several resorts located in the area that offer breathtaking views of the mine and surrounding landscape.
dining
The area around the Kennecott Copper Mine is full of delicious restaurants and eateries. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or something a bit more upscale, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.
Fees/permits
For the Visitors Center, there is a nominal fee that each person over the age of five must pay in order to enter. For more information on fees, visit the Rio Tinto Kennecott website for all amounts for the Kennecott Copper Mine.
Pets
Only trained service dogs are allowed in the Visitors Center and they must be on a leash that doesn't extend beyond six feet.