mining

America’s quest to rid itself of fossil fuels and move toward electric vehicles is clashing with environmentalists who are trying to protect areas proposed for lithium mining.

The Biden administration says the mine will help wean the U.S. off fossil fuels, but opponents say it will destroy water supplies and wildlife habitat.

A Helena judge has ordered Gov. Greg Gianforte to release state documents related to the Hecla Mining Corporation and the administration’s 2021 decision to drop a bad-actor case against Hecla’s CEO.

The Montana Supreme Court heard oral arguments Wednesday, as they consider whether to uphold a lower court ruling that said the state improperly issued a permit for a planned copper mine near White Sulphur Springs.

Those involved say this is a once-in-a-generation investment and their goal is to stop mining and protect the ecosystem.

The Grassy Mountain mine, located about 20 miles south of Vale in eastern Oregon, would be the first chemical-process gold mine in the state.

Environmental groups say Montana’s House Bill 576 and Senate Bill 392 flout federal regulations to protect the environment and punish citizens who challenge mining permits in good faith.

Mining organizations and renewable trade groups say the long permitting timelines and litigation delays for mining projects are incompatible with the urgent demand for materials needed to decarbonize the economy.

Australia-based mine developer Ioneer Corp., has maintained the company’s planned lithium mine and the rare wildflower unique to Nevada can coexist.

Mike Bader writes, "The Sheep Creek site is about the worst place for extensive mining operations."