BLM approves lithium exploration project in Clayton Valley
BATTLE MOUNTAIN, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management today approved a lithium exploration project on approximately 213 acres of public lands in Clayton Valley south of Silver Peak in Esmeralda County.
With this approval, Schlumberger Technology Corporation can construct, operate, maintain, and eventually decommission exploration wells over 10 years. The project supports groundwater baseline monitoring and proving, marketing, and potentially the eventual development of a brine mine without the need for large evaporation ponds. The project will add 95 jobs in Esmeralda County over the life of the work.
The previous Trump administration designated lithium as a critical mineral in 2019 and President Trump signed Executive Order 14241 “Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production” on March 20, 2025. This lithium exploration project supports the president’s continued emphasis on reducing permitting timelines, increasing domestic mineral production, and Unleashing American Energy.
Additional information is available at the BLM National NEPA Register. Please contact BLM Planning and Environmental Specialist Melissa Jennings at 775-482-7800 or mjennings@blm.govfor more information.
The BLM manages more than 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.