BLM seeks input for proposed expansion of lithium mine
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TONOPAH, Nev. - The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on proposed updates to the plan of operations for the existing Silver Peak Lithium Mine. The mine is currently authorized on 6,462 acres, including 548 acres of public lands, near Silver Peak in Esmeralda County.
If approved, Albemarle Corporation could expand across an additional 1,596 acres, including 1,053 acres of public lands. The work could include constructing two transfer pump stations and related pipelines, two weak brine ponds, and future production well drilling. The BLM will also consider whether to retroactively approve existing facilities built without prior authorization.
A Notice of Intent will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to begin a 30-day comment period. The BLM will conduct two virtual public meetings to present information and discuss the proposed expansion at 2 p.m. PST Mar. 18 and 5 p.m. PST Mar. 18, 2025. No comments will be collected during the public meetings.
Information on registering for the meetings is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments can be submitted through the “Participate Now” option (preferred). Comments can also be emailed to BLM_NV_BMDO_P&EC_NEPA@blm.gov or delivered to Silver Peak EIS, P.O. Box 911, Tonopah, NV 89049. The comment period will close March 31, 2025, or 15 days after the last public meeting, whichever is later.
For more information, please contact Project Manager Erik Bray at 775-861-6451.
-BLM-
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.