How Will Anson Resources' Green River Lithium Project Shape the Future of Sustainable Mining?

Anson Resources Ltd (ASX: ASN) has received final approval from the State of Utah for brine extraction rights at its Green River Lithium Project. This landmark decision allows Anson to proceed with large-scale lithium production, marking a significant milestone for the company's expansion in the critical minerals sector. The approval ensures that the extraction process will not impact local water resources, underscoring the company's commitment to sustainable development.

Final Approval for Brine Extraction in Utah

Anson Resources Ltd, an ASX-listed mineral resources company, has achieved a significant milestone with the State of Utah’s final approval for brine extraction at its Green River Lithium Project. This decision, confirmed by the Utah Department of Natural Resources, Division of Water Rights, is a crucial step in Anson's plans to establish a large-scale lithium production facility in the region.

The approval process, which began with the initial application on July 17, 2023, through Anson's subsidiary Blackstone Minerals NV LLC, has been meticulously scrutinized to ensure environmental compliance. This approval represents the first instance of the State of Utah authorizing large-scale lithium production, paving the way for Anson's Green River Project to move forward.

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Non-Consumptive Use and Environmental Impact

The approval grants Anson the right to extract 19 cubic feet per second (0. 54 cubic meters per second) of brine, which will undergo a Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) process before being returned to its original geological formation. This non-consumptive approach has been recognized as environmentally favorable compared to traditional evaporation pond methods.

The Division of Water Rights emphasized that Anson's method will not interfere with existing water rights or negatively impact surrounding water resources, including rivers and groundwater systems. The company's Underground Injection Control (UIC) Technical Report for a UIC Class 5 Spent Brine Return Well was also approved by the Utah Division of Water Quality, further validating the environmental integrity of the project.

Strategic Location and Community Engagement

The extraction wells are strategically positioned on private land acquired by Anson in 2023, which has a history of surface disturbance, reducing environmental impact. The close proximity of the wells to the proposed lithium extraction plant enhances operational efficiency and minimizes land use.

Bruce Richardson, Anson’s Executive Chairman and CEO, highlighted the company’s strong community ties and commitment to local engagement. "This approval is significant as it is the first granted to the Company by the State of Utah for the processing of brine for lithium extraction at Green River," said Richardson. "Our commitment to compliance and collaboration with local and state authorities has been crucial in advancing the project. "

Geological Advantages of the Green River Project

The Green River Project shares geological similarities with Anson’s Paradox Lithium Project, featuring high porosity and permeability in rock formations that are ideal for brine extraction. The Mississippian limestone and dolomite units, which are prevalent at both project sites, offer thick, porous reservoirs capable of supporting substantial brine volumes.

Notably, the Green River Project area includes significant geological structures such as the Ten Mile Graben, Little Grand Wash Fault, Green River Anticline, and the Salt Wash Anticline. These features, combined with favorable lithology, provide optimal conditions for lithium extraction and promise reduced drilling requirements and costs.
Conservation Measures and Sustainable Development

Anson has implemented rigorous measures to ensure no interaction between extracted brines and surface waters. Exploration wells are steel-cased and cemented to protect local aquifers, with the impermeable salt beds of the Pennsylvanian Paradox Formation serving as a natural barrier.

The environmental sustainability of the Green River Project aligns with Anson’s broader ESG objectives. The company's innovative DLE process minimizes water usage and environmental footprint, offering a model for future lithium extraction endeavors.

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