Four Corners Mine 14-year extension and Master Mining Plan amendment
Summary
Mosaic wants 14 more years to mine and reclaim at Four Corners, plus regional clay processing. Residents cited Mosaic's long record of fines, water use, and Piney Point fears; commissioners split, approving the legal conversion but rejecting the amended plan as proposed.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Feb 18, 2026.
Impact analysis
Mosaic has paid over $28 million in severance taxes since 2017; a new fee structure replaces declining severance revenue.
Mosaic gains operational certainty; the county retains plant tax base and 2 MGD water supply.
East county residents concerned about water quality, noise, and perpetual mining footprint.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Board of County Commissioners Land Use — February 18, 2026
Mosaic Fertilizer asked the county to extend phosphate mining at the Four Corners Mine through 2044 with reclamation to 2055, and to process ore from Hardee County mines at the Four Corners plant. Supporters point to jobs, food security, and Mosaic's community investments; opponents cite water use, environmental risks, and land degradation.
Planning Commission — January 15, 2026
Mosaic wants 14 more years to mine and reclaim at Four Corners, plus regional clay processing. Residents cited Mosaic's long record of fines, water use, and Piney Point fears; commissioners split, approving the legal conversion but rejecting the amended plan as proposed.
Related development
Resolution R-26-005 – Amendment to Master Mining Plan, Four Corners Mine
Mosaic says the change means less trucking, earlier closure of one clay settling area, and no new mining areas; the mine's regional plant stays operating 14 more years.
Four Corners Mine – LDA and Master Mining Plan Amendment
Extends mining/reclamation dates to 2044/2055 and moves East Duette tract processing to Four Corners; no new mining acreage or clay settling area footprints proposed.
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