This is from a new prospector in Indiana. In our state this is a hobby only, no hope for income from prospecting. Indiana is in the process of writing new regulations to allow for the first time suction dredging in the rivers and streams. This was achieved by the southern Indiana clubs inviting the Dept. of Natural Resources people to witness first hand the dredging operations. (in creeks on private property). Once they saw the dredging process, they determined it to be a low impact activity with potentially favorable benefits to the states waters. Removal of lead and other heavy metals, bringing the gravels to the surface, and generally improving the streambed habitat.
The river that I live near has several species of protected mussels, but has not been excluded from dredging once DNR saw the demonstration. The mussels were pulled through the dredge, went down the sluice and were inspected on exiting, no harm done. Dredging does stir up the water, but it is small compared to what mother nature does on a regular basis.
I hope this post is helpful in educating the politicians in California. I probably should have written it in crayon so they could understand. (forgive me ) bj
Mining is a right, not a privlige like a drivers license. Under the 1872 mining law we are subject to reasonable regulation, not prohabition. If Ca passes this, you in the the rest of the nation are soon to follow. Call the state and voice your opinion
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The river that I live near has several species of protected mussels, but has not been excluded from dredging once DNR saw the demonstration. The mussels were pulled through the dredge, went down the sluice and were inspected on exiting, no harm done. Dredging does stir up the water, but it is small compared to what mother nature does on a regular basis.
I hope this post is helpful in educating the politicians in California. I probably should have written it in crayon so they could understand. (forgive me ) bj
I JUST E-MAILED THIS TO GOV.