BLM Review Supports Nevada Lithium Mine

The Bureau of Land Management's final environmental impact statement suggests that a proposed lithium mine in Nevada can coexist with an endangered flower species. This decision has sparked controversy between mining advocates and environmental groups.

Ioneer Ltd., the Australian mining company behind the project, plans to begin production at the Rhyolite Ridge mine as early as 2028. The mine could potentially produce enough lithium to supply nearly 370,000 electric vehicles annually, contributing to the growing demand for battery materials.

However, environmentalists argue that the project violates the Endangered Species Act and threatens the existence of Tiehm's buckwheat, a rare desert flower. The controversy extends to the proposed flower propagation plan and its potential impact on local biodiversity.

• BLM's environmental impact statement suggests lithium mine can coexist with endangered flower.
• Ioneer Ltd. plans to begin production at Rhyolite Ridge mine as early as 2028.
• Environmentalists argue the project violates Endangered Species Act and threatens Tiehm's buckwheat.
• Mine could potentially produce lithium for nearly 370,000 electric vehicles annually.
• Controversy surrounds flower propagation plan and impact on biodiversity.