![]() ![]() We have questions if it even complies with governmental rule-making," said Jonathan Oppenheimer, a senior conservation associate for the Boise-based environmental group. "We have no idea what they are going to propose. The agency has released a list of miners' requests and an indication of which ones they are considering but not the exact wording of the proposed changes or what the revisions might look like.īecause of that and the short time allowed for public input, the Idaho Conservation League is urging the agency to delay the process. 15 because they require more significant scientific and technical review.Īny changes to this year's rules will be made by July 10, five days before dredge mining opens on the South Fork. In Idaho, the water resources agency says it will look at other changes requested by miners but not until after the season closes Aug. Oregon lawmakers passed a measure this year establishing new restrictions and fees for the practice in 2018. Oregon and Washington state also allow this type of mining, though conservationists have pushed for changes aimed at preserving waterways. Environmentalists worry about the effect on habitat for fish and their food sources and damage to air and water quality. Suction dredge mining uses large, gas-powered vacuums to suck up gravel on the bottom of rivers and streams in search of gold flakes and other valuable minerals. "The changes we are considering now I think are minor, commonsense changes that aren't going to affect changes to the water and wildlife in the river," Department of Water Resources Deputy Director Mathew Weaver said. LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) - Idaho officials are considering altering rules for suction dredge mining on the South Fork of the Clearwater River just before the month-long season is set to begin.Īt the Tenmile Mining District's request, regulators are looking at several conditions included in its permits to see if they can be clarified or simplified, the Lewiston Tribune reported last week ( ). ![]()
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