BLM seeks input on proposed lithium exploration in McDermitt Caldera
VALE, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public comment on a proposal to explore for lithium in the McDermitt Caldera near Nevada in Malheur County, Oregon. If approved, HiTech Minerals Inc. could modify approximately 100 acres with 267 exploration drill sites across 7,200 acres of public lands.
The project would include construction of 30 miles of new access routes, seasonal drilling July-November for up to five years, and collection of subsurface hydrological, geophysical, and geochemical data. Approval would require the company to restore the land to its original state at the end of each drill season.
Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register where comments may be submitted through the ‘Participate Now’ option (preferred). Comments may also be submitted via email to BLM_OR_VL_LithiumHiTech@blm.gov or delivered to: Vale BLM Malheur Field Office, Attn: McDermitt Exploration Project, 100 Oregon St., Vale, OR 97918. The public comment period will close March 31, 2025.
For additional project information, please contact Public Affairs Specialist Larisa Bogardus at 541-523-1407 or lbogardus@blm.gov.
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.