BLM approves Silver Peak lithium mine expansion

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BLM approves Silver Peak lithium mine expansion

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TONOPAH, Nev. - The Bureau of Land Management has approved expansion of the existing Silver Peak lithium mine near Silver Peak in Esmeralda County. The mine is now authorized to operate on 8,058 total acres, including 1,601 public acres.

The mine has been in operation since 1965 and is currently the only producing lithium mine in the United States. The expansion allows for use of new technologies expected to increase lithium recovery by up to 100% from the same amount of raw materials.

This project was directed by the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council to be among the first included as a FAST-41 project in the interest of government transparency and in response to administration efforts to increase American mineral production in order to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign minerals, enhance national security, and create jobs.

Albemarle Corporation will also construct two transfer pump stations and related pipelines, two weak brine ponds, and conduct future production well-drilling. The BLM also retroactively approved existing facilities built without prior authorization.

For more information, including planning documents and the decision, please visit BLM National NEPA Register or contact BLM Project Manager Erik Bray at [email protected]or 775-861-6451.

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America's public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.