A newly released study has revealed that Arkansas is home to a significant deposit of lithium, with enough reserves to meet global demand nine times over. Conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Energy and the Environment, the study estimates that the southwestern region of the Smackover Formation contains between 5 million and 19 million tons of lithium.
Lithium is a key resource used in various industries, including electronics, energy storage, and manufacturing. Currently, the U.S. relies on imports for more than 25% of its lithium needs, primarily from Argentina, Chile, and China. The discovery of such vast lithium reserves in Arkansas could dramatically reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign sources.
USGS researcher Katherine Knierim explained, “We estimate there is enough dissolved lithium present in that region to replace U.S. imports of lithium and more.”
Though these estimates are promising, further research is needed to assess how much lithium can be extracted using modern methods. The Smackover Formation extends beyond Arkansas, into states like Alabama and Texas, offering the U.S. a unique opportunity to tap into this rich resource.
As the U.S. looks to build more resilient supply chains for critical minerals, Arkansas’ lithium reserves could prove crucial. By unlocking this domestic resource, the country could secure its place as a global leader in mineral production, benefiting both its economy and industrial sectors.