Lafayette County Judge Valarie Clark on Lithium’s Future in South Arkansas
Welcome to Lithium Link, your resource for insightful news and expert commentary on the latest happenings in the Arkansas lithium scene.
This Week: Lafayette County Judge Valarie Clark on Lithium’s Future in South Arkansas:
Clark talks with Lithium Link about the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity her county has to turbocharge growth and showcase Arkansas to a global audience.
She also shares how the county is preparing to accommodate a new industry.
Let’s dive in!
Lafayette County Judge on Lithium, Growth and Big Hopes for Small-Town Arkansas
The big picture: Lafayette County, Arkansas — population 6,200 — is poised to be a focal point in the growing direct lithium extraction (DLE) industry in South Arkansas. In an interview, County Judge Valarie Clark tells Lithium Link that the opportunity could revitalize the rural region and put it on the global map.
Why it matters: In Lafayette County, four major companies — ExxonMobil, Smackover Lithium (a joint venture between DLE pioneer Standard Lithium Ltd. and Equinor), Tetra Technologies, and Pantera Minerals — are actively exploring or preparing to extract the mineral.
“... Just knowing that we could possibly be a light to the world as far as what we have to offer here in Lafayette County … that's exciting for me, and it is exciting for my constituents, as well,” Clark said.
Where Lafayette fits in: For now, Clark says the county’s role is mostly supportive — answering questions, making connections and offering local knowledge to incoming companies.
“We're just trying to support the companies that have shown interest, that have bought property here … be it they need a contact with someone that does local dirt work, or they have questions about something they're not familiar with in the county.”
What’s needed to grow: Clark is focused on laying the groundwork for a sustainable future:
Roads and rural water infrastructure are top priorities, especially since much of the land being purchased for lithium extraction is in remote areas.
Broadband access is improving, but cellular coverage still lags.
A $500,000 planning grant is helping the county map out where to extend rural water first — targeting areas where growth is likely to come first.
“This isn’t something where you can just snap your fingers and everyone has water,” Clark said. “We’re just focusing on where it’s needed the most — and thankfully, the companies have all said they want to be good community partners.”
Housing crunch ahead: With hopes that more residents can work locally instead of commuting, Clark is already working with developers to explore housing options — from subdivisions in town to residential opportunities near scenic Lake Erling, which already has some infrastructure in place.
“I want kids to graduate from high school and know they can stay here, get a good job, and plant their roots — just like their parents and grandparents did,” she said.
Lafayette County: More Than Lithium
While lithium is generating the most buzz, Clark highlights another new industry on the rise: a pellet mill that will process chicken litter into organic fertilizer. It’s expected to begin production by May and could become a statewide leader.
“All the talk is lithium, but I always like to throw that in — because it could put a completely different spotlight on us too,” she said.
Looking ahead: The biggest domino yet to fall is the Arkansas Oil & Gas Commission's decision on royalty rates for lithium. That’s the signal industry leaders are waiting for before making major moves.
“It’s a very slow-paced process, but it’s steady,” she said. “Once the royalty is set, I think we’ll start seeing a lot of progress.”
Long-term vision: Clark imagines a future Lafayette County transformed by thoughtful, strategic growth.
“Ten to 15 years from now, I see major changes in a very positive way — the quality of life, the housing, the infrastructure — all of it.”
Clark wants the rest of the state — and the country — to see Lafayette County as open for business, far beyond lithium.
“We want people to come here. I’ve said since day one: if I can just get people off Highway 29 and Highway 82, they could see how beautiful Lafayette County really is,” she said.
The bottom line: The lithium boom could be a once-in-a-century moment for Lafayette County — and Clark is determined to make sure her community is ready to meet the moment while staying true to its roots in the heart of the ArkLaTex.
Watch the video: Listen to our conversation with Clark above or on YouTube HERE.
