I think it is constructive to review that in the May 11, 2020 document "PROPOSED THACKER PASS LITHIUM MINE PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT PUBLIC SCOPING REPORT" the number one item of concern by far was "Water Resources" at 30.7%.  The next closest concern by the public in that document was only at 17.0% ( "Wildlife").  Third in public concern was " Air Quality and Greenhouse Gases" at only 6.9%.

So, it is abundantly clear that a year ago as well as now, Water Quality and Water abundance were the most important public issues, almost twice as prevalent as the next closest public concern, and will remain so in the future.

It may serve as illustrative to look at the specific public "Scoping" concerns as noted in the EIS Public Scoping Report to help define the public water concerns:

"Water Resources Comment Summary Several comments focused on water and water related topics including the project’s: • Potential effects on water quality, both surface and groundwater; • Potential effects on water quantity, both surface and groundwater; • Stormwater management designs, monitoring, and implementation; • Potential for pit lake formation; • Effects to groundwater from exploratory drilling; • The need for a robust water monitoring and mitigation plan; • Questions regarding the methodologies of applicant developed groundwater modeling; • Information regarding other federal and state water related permits; • Potential effects on wetlands or other waters; • Potential drawdown effects to existing wells in the Kings River and Quinn River valleys; • Anticipated water use and effects on public and private water rights; • Potential effects upon streamflows in Pole Creek, Crowley Creek, and Thacker Creek; and • Potential pit dewatering. Water Resources Issue Statements • How would the proximity of the clay tailings filter stack affect streamflow and water quality in Pole Creek? • How would the West Waste Rock Storage Facility potentially affect water quality in Thacker Creek? • How would pit dewatering affect baseflows in nearby springs and streams? • How would pit dewatering affect the adjacent property owner’s well or water supply? • How would exploration activities affect sedimentation to Pole Creek? • What would be the effects of exploration drilling and methods used?"

TP_Scoping_Report_2020-05-11_FINAL.pdf (blm.gov)