I was also wondering, how it is possible, that LAC will start digging while missing those 3 permits. Not to mention, that such step would  require 8-K report as this is surely a material event for the company. 

Frankly speaking, the only thing, those activist can do is to file a lawsuit (well probably more than one). Camping in the desert is nice and will deliver PR and lot of nice memories, but will not change anything about the fact that Thacker Pass will be mined. One day a crew will arrive and clear that space of any species being present in that area, including activists. So the lawsuit was given

Taking into consideration that the project has local and federal support and considering how far LAC t in the approval process, one could say, that chances to win are quite limited. But as Okiedo said, underestimating activists would be a mistake LAC should not make. Max is a professional troublemaker and will do his best to delay the project.