Will Suction Dredge Mining Have Another Chance?

Since 2009, the use of vacuum or suction dredge equipment has been statutorily prohibited in California.  For many of RCRC counties suction dredge mining historically provided not only recreational and economic viability to individuals, but also associated economic stability to communities that hosted the recreational visitor opportunities. 

In 2015, Senate Bill 637 (Allen) authorized the State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) to adopt waste discharge requirements or a waiver of waste discharge requirements that address water quality impacts of suction dredge mining.  The requirements may specify conditions or areas where suction dredge mining is prohibited, or limit the particular use of specific equipment.  The State Water Board will be holding four workshops throughout the state to solicit public input on developing these requirements in early 2017. 

After these initial workshops, State Water Board staff will draft recommendations to regulate suction dredge mining activities and hold an additional public workshop, prior to a Water Board hearing for adoption.