LEAD, S.D. – Exploration work is continuing at the Lion Rock Resources mining site in southwestern Lawrence County, with company officials telling county commissioners they expect to remain in the exploration phase for at least another year.
During an annual update to the Lawrence County Commission, representatives of the Canadian-owned company said no mining has taken place since Lion Rock acquired the operation’s permits earlier this year. Instead, crews have focused on site cleanup, reclamation work, maintenance, sampling and early-stage exploration.
Company officials say they’re investigating the potential for strategic minerals, including tantalum, lithium and tin. However, significant drilling and testing will be needed before determining whether mining the site would be economically feasible.
Lion Rock representatives emphasized that the company specializes in exploration rather than mining. If a viable mineral deposit is discovered, the company would likely seek investors or another operator to develop the mine.
Officials also addressed concerns about preserving historic resources near Tinton, saying there are currently no plans for drilling or excavation in that area. Additional fencing and signage have been installed, and a state archaeologist has been involved in protecting historically sensitive locations.
The site continues to operate under an existing conditional use permit that limits excavation volumes and prohibits on-site chemical processing. The permit is scheduled for another annual review in October 2027.
