The lithium mine, calculated using a machine-learning model and geological information that predicted maps of lithium concentration, represents 35% to 136% of the current amount of lithium estimated to be in the U.S. Lithium could be extracted from the waste stream of the brines—deposits of groundwater rich in minerals—in the Smackover Formation.

New research suggests that Arkansas may be home to upwards of 19 million tons of lithium reserves, which would give the United States an opportunity to lead in the electric vehicle industry. The United States Geological Survey unveiled the findings on Monday,