Volcanic white gold: A lithium deposit valued at $1.5 trillion has been discovered in the U.S.

By Jordan Joseph

Earth.com staff writer

McDermitt Caldera in Oregon is attracting attention for what could be one of the largest lithium deposits ever identified in the United States. Many view it as a potential boost for domestic battery production, while local communities voice concern over the impact on wildlife and cultural sites.

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

Lithium deposit exposes priorities

“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.

Castonguay’s statement has stirred local debate over how the development might reshape the high desert.

Industry advocates see a path to addressing the ballooning need for electric vehicle batteries.

Neighbors around the caldera and the McDermitt deposit worry that large-scale extraction could damage an ecosystem that supports pronghorn antelope, sage-grouse, and other sensitive species.

The environmental dilemma

A proposal from HiTech Minerals Inc. seeks to add roads and hundreds of wells to test for lithium in Malheur County.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) once offered a brief window for public comment, which drew criticism from groups who say that’s not enough time to evaluate lasting changes.

The Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club indicates they support cleaner energy but believe drilling must not come at the expense of fragile habitats.

Some see parallels to disputes in Nevada, where communities have fought lithium ventures they say threaten water sources.

Malheur County is among Oregon’s poorest areas, and certain residents hope new jobs might brighten its economic outlook.

“We need to do this the Oregon way – with full accountability and shared benefits,” said Greg Smith, director of economic development in Malheur County.

Why lithium deposits are so valuable

Cleaner transportation and renewable energy storage have skyrocketed demand for lithium. Its light weight and excellent electrochemical properties make it key in modern battery production.

Global interest in ramping up supply has fueled both exploration and debate. Many want a homegrown source to cut reliance on overseas materials, but critics stress that extracting metals can have lasting ecol