Opponents of the nation's largest lithium mine under construction in Nevada are urging U.S. officials to investigate potential impacts on groundwater levels that could threaten the existence of a tiny snail species. The project by Lithium Americas at Thacker Pass has come under scrutiny by environmentalists and Native American activists.
The mine, spanning about 9 square miles, has raised fears about declining groundwater levels. Recent evidence suggests a drop of nearly 5 feet in the water table since 2018, according to a hydrogeology expert's analysis. This has prompted concerns about the fate of the Kings River pyrg, a snail species found only in the basin surrounding the mine site.
Opponents argue that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is not acting promptly on a petition to list the snail as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. They are calling for an investigation into potential impacts on groundwater from mining activities.
The project's significance lies in the growing demand for lithium, a key component in electric vehicle batteries. President Joe Biden's energy agenda emphasizes the need for increased electric vehicle production, driving investments in lithium mining.
Despite ongoing reviews of the snail's status, concerns persist about the potential extinction risk posed by the lithium mine. The Bureau of Land Management has acknowledged the possibility of groundwater level reductions but suggests significant impacts may only occur with future approvals to dig below the water table.
As the debate continues, stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation to balance environmental conservation with the push for lithium production in the region.
