The Utah Government is reconsidering its approval of Anson Resources’ (ASX:ASN) application for the extraction of water (brine) at its Green River Lithium Project in the US.
The junior explorer says the reconsideration is understood to be related to issues raised by the Gayna Salinas, owner of a neighbouring agricultural property, and the Living Rivers and Great Basin Water Network, a public interest, non-profit organisation.
The permit, which was granted in early May, allows the “non-consumptive” use of brine at a rate of 0.54m3 per second. Anson said at the time it received the permit that a review determined there would be no negative impacts on water resources.
As all the brine will be returned to its origin, the Utah Division of Water Rights determined that its use was non-consumptive.
Anson is now in talks with the department to fully understand the implications of the review.
The company will provide additional expert technical and legal opinions to the state engineer, to assist in addressing the issues raised in the reconsideration application.
“The company considers that the review is a temporary measure as this additional information and documentation is considered,” Anson says.
“Anson considers that it has been fully compliant with all requirements for the water extraction rights approval and expects the review to be finalised this year.”
A request for reconsideration of the temporary water extraction permit grant was required to be lodged before 30 May 2024.
However, Anson says no application was received by the water engineer by the deadline and therefore the permit status remains granted.
The temporary permit is valid for 12 months.
Anson is progressing with the development of its Green River Lithium Project, including the processing of Mississippian brine through the sample demonstration plant.
The 106.2km2 project is located 50km northwest of the company’s flagship Paradox Lithium Project.
Write to Angela East at Mining.com.au
Images: Anson Resources
