Scientists discover $1,500,000,000,000

A vast lithium reserve, valued at over a trillion dollars, has been discovered at the McDermitt Caldera, spanning southeastern Oregon to northern Nevada. This mineral, essential for electric vehicle batteries and treating bipolar disorder, could significantly boost the U.S. economy, equating to four percent of the national debt. While mining has begun on the Nevada side, Oregon is debating whether to proceed, given environmental concerns. The area is home to the sage-grouse, an already declining bird species, and mining could harm local wildlife and disrupt water sources.

The McDermitt Caldera, a supervolcano formed 16 million years ago, is located in a high desert area. While lithium mining could support cleaner energy, the Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club opposes harming fragile habitats. Indigenous tribes also resist the project, as the land holds cultural significance. Despite these concerns, Malheur County sees potential economic benefits from mining, including job creation, but aims to ensure accountability and shared benefits if the project advances.