The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) approved the expansion of lithium exploration activities in southern Malheur County, OR, about 20 miles west of McDermitt.
Australia-based HiTech Minerals Inc. is authorized to conduct lithium mineral exploration activities over the course of five years. The project includes disturbance of up to 73 total acres created by 168 exploration drill sites across 7,200 acres of public lands, the construction of 22 miles of new access routes and other temporary disturbances, the agency said. Exploration would occur annually between July 1 and Nov. 30 for up to five years, and reclamation of the disturbances would occur after each drill season.
“The HiTech lithium exploration project represents a significant step toward achieving the nation’s energy goals and reducing dependence on foreign critical minerals—key priorities under the President’s agenda,” said BLM Acting Malheur Field Manager Tara McLain.
The proposal has previously been opposed by local ranchers, Tribes and environmental groups.
