BLM seeks input for proposed Silver Peak lithium mine expansion
TONOPAH, Nev. - The Bureau of Land Management seeks public comment on the proposed expansion of 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 operations across an additional 1,596 acres, including 1,053 acres of public lands. The work could include the construction of 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 availability will publish in tomorrow’s Federal Register to begin a 30-day public comment period. The BLM will conduct one virtual public meeting to present information and discuss the proposed expansion on Sept. 23, 2025, at 2 p.m. PDT. No comments will be collected during the public meeting.
Additional information, including the draft environmental impact statement and how to register for the public meeting, is available at the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments may be submitted through the “Participate Now” option (preferred). Comments may also be mailed to Silver Peak EIS, P.O. Box 911, Tonopah, NV 89049. The comment period will close on Oct. 6, 2025, or 15 days after the virtual public meeting, whichever is later.
For more information, please contact Project Manager Erik Bray at [email protected] or 775-861-6451.
The BLM manages about 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.