Gov’t, Communities Headed for Fight Over Oregon’s $1.5-T Lithium Deposit

The McDermitt Caldera in Oregon is drawing attention for what could be one of the largest lithium deposits ever identified in the United States.

Industry advocates say the deposit could help meet the growing demand for electric vehicle batteries. (Photo: Chris Henry, Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology / USGS) 

Many see it as a potential boost for domestic battery production, while local communities are raising concerns about impacts on wildlife and cultural sites, Eric Ralls reported for Earth.com.

The excitement stems from estimates valuing the deposit at about $1.5 trillion. Some geologists say the ancient volcanic sediments could contain between 20 and 40 million metric tons of lithium.

“This feature is 16 million years old, and we’re making decisions in a matter of years,” said Sammy Castonguay, a geologist at Treasure Valley Community College.

His remarks have fueled local debate over how development could reshape the high desert.

Industry advocates say the deposit could help meet the growing demand for electric vehicle batteries.

Residents near the caldera, however, worry large-scale extraction could damage an ecosystem that supports pronghorn antelope, sage grouse, and other sensitive species.

A proposal from HiTech Minerals Inc. would add roads and hundreds of test wells in Malheur County.

The Bureau of Land Management offered a limited public comment period, drawing criticism from groups who say the timeline is insufficient to assess long-term impacts.

The Oregon chapter of the Sierra Club says it supports clean energy but insists development must not come at the expense of fragile habitats.