California Bans Suction Dredge Mining -- Effective Immediately

I generally don't report on events taking place in other states but, since whenever something bad happens in California it tends to metastasize across neighboring regions, I'm making an exception in this case. It seems that Governor Schwarzenegger has signed SB 670, shutting down every in-stream suction mining dredge in California immediately and for an indefinite time to come.

According to the California Department of Fish and Game website, the moratorium on suction dredge mining will remain in effect for at least two years while the department completes a court-ordered review of the permit process and makes any necessary changes to the pertinent regulations. Not only are all current dredging permits no longer valid, but permit holders will apparently not be eligible for refunds of fees paid, according to the DFG statement.

In the meantime, running a dredge in a California stream can net you up to a $1,000 fine and six months behind bars.

Those interested may read the notice from the California DFG at the link here.

Countering the California development, Public Lands for the People is preparing a Federal Injunction to stop implementation of the moratorium. Donations for legal fees are requested at the web link above.