BLM approves lithium exploration project in Arizona
KINGMAN, Ariz. - The Bureau of Land Management today announced its approval of the Big Sandy Valley Lithium Exploration Project near Wikieup. The BLM’s decision, which incorporates significant input from the public and Tribal Nations, allows Big Sandy, Inc.—a subsidiary of Arizona Lithium Ltd.—to drill and test up to 131 exploration holes across approximately 21 acres of BLM-managed public land to determine whether a full-scale lithium mining operation could be viable. Drilling operations will be conducted by the Navajo Transitional Energy Company.
If mining is determined to be viable and the company proposes commercial lithium mining operations, they will be required to submit a plan of development, which would be subject to further environmental review and opportunities for additional public comment.
The BLM completed a 30-day public comment period and two 30-day extensions in 2021 to allow input from stakeholders and interested user groups. Based on feedback from the public and Tribes, the BLM has worked with the proponent to adjust the original exploration plan. The final environmental assessment and other relevant documents are available at the BLM National NEPA Register.
To address concerns raised by the Hualapai Tribe, Big Sandy, Inc. revised its exploration plan to remove the use of a groundwater well that is within a few hundred feet of a sacred hot spring, and also removed a nearby staging area. Water needed to support the drilling operations will be trucked to the site. The proponent has also committed to providing the opportunity for the Hualapai Tribe and other descendant Tribal communities to monitor ground disturbing activities onsite.
Lithium is one of 50 minerals identified as critical by the U.S. Geological Survey, reflecting the importance of the mineral to the country’s economy and national security and its supply chain vulnerability. Lithium batteries are used extensively in portable electronic devices, vehicles, and grid storage applications.
The BLM manages more than 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.