Nevada lithium mine sparks fears over snail extinction amid groundwater concerns

A Nevada lithium project is facing criticism from environmental and Native American groups who claim groundwater depletion could threaten the survival of a rare springsnail found only near the Thacker Pass mine.

Scott Sonner reports for The Associated Press.

In short:

• Opponents argue that groundwater levels have dropped nearly 5 feet since 2018, potentially endangering the Kings River pyrg snail, which lives in 13 nearby springs.
• Lithium Americas has faced scrutiny over monitoring lapses and is accused of failing to adequately address impacts on the fragile ecosystem.
• The mine, a key part of U.S. plans for electric vehicle battery production, received $2 billion in federal funding and is under ongoing regulatory review.

Why this matters:

Lithium mining is central to renewable energy efforts, but ecological damage, particularly to unique species and groundwater supplies, poses long-term sustainability challenges. Ensuring environmental protections while expanding mineral production remains a contentious issue.