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BLM: phosphate, lithium, pozzolan and amethyst exploration proposed in Elko District
Summary
BLM described multiple small‑scale exploration projects — an 8.9‑acre phosphate trenching EA open for comment through Aug. 4, ongoing baseline reviews for a North Nevada lithium exploration EA, a 61‑acre Beacon Hill pozzolan exploration plan, and a small amethyst plan in a wilderness study area subject to 43 CFR 3802.
BLM acting field manager Brady Owens briefed the committee on several mineral exploration proposals in Elko County. He said the Murdoch Mountain phosphate draft environmental assessment is out for public comment through August 4 and is limited to roughly 8.9 acres of disturbance for trenching and drilling for exploration rather than full mine development. "It's relatively small," Owens said of the phosphate exploration, adding that the activity is leasable rather than a locatable mine under 1872 mining law.
Owens also described the North Nevada Lithium Project, which is in an exploratory phase with baseline reviews and supplemental environmental reporting under way, and Beacon Hill, a proposed pozzolan exploration area of about 61 acres for drill pads, roads and staging. He noted a unique amethyst plan that would require a plan of operations under 43 CFR 3802 because it sits in a wilderness study area; that plan would create reclamation and bonding obligations if salable minerals were recovered. Owens said many of these are exploration activities and that BLM will follow standard NEPA procedures and public‑comment opportunities.
