USGS Updates U.S. Critical Mineral Deposits

USGS Updates U.S. Critical Mineral Deposits

1,271 known deposits across 41 states and Puerto Rico; one-third have no past production

RESTON, Va. — The U.S. Geological Survey has released an updated database showing known U.S. deposits of 59 critical minerals needed to strengthen the American economy and protect national security.

The database was produced to support the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative, which is currently re-mapping the entire United States with cutting-edge airborne surveys. USGS staff compiled the 1,271 known deposits in 41 states and Puerto Rico to prioritize Earth MRI surveys. Of those, 412 or nearly one-third have recognized, documented critical mineral resources and no production — representing untapped potential for critical mineral production. 

“The United States is abundant in many of the critical minerals needed to drive advanced manufacturing and protect our defense industrial base. For too long, America has relied on foreign sources for minerals for which we have the resources and expertise to develop here at home. This data shows that we have an extraordinary domestic mineral endowment. Nine of the ten critical minerals at greatest risk for supply chain disruption, including four rare-earth elements, are present in the U.S. Showing where critical minerals are in the United States helps the USGS map more new sources of critical minerals. Publishing that information in a map and a new interactive version puts important knowledge directly in the hands of industry, investors and the public,” Assistant Secretary of the Interior Andrea Travnicek said.