Idaho Suction Dredging...?

[vanursepaul]

  I think this is good news for Idaho dredgers..

Can't really understand the legalese

[Steve Herschbach]

Not quite a done deal but nearly so. There is now a 45 day period where only people who previously commented now have standing to object to the draft decision if they wish.

The draft notices are online here

If this proceeds without objection or if objections are filed but then answered eventually this:

"would allow for the approval of proposed Plan of Operations (POOs) in specified reaches of Orogrande and French creeks and the South Fork of the Clearwater River. The decision would include specified design criteria which were derived from public comments, consultation with the Nez Perce Tribe, and consultation with other governmental agencies. The maximum number of operations approved in any year under this alternative would be 35 (20 for the Orogrande and French creeks and 15 for the South Fork of the Clearwater River)."

The bottom line is suction dredging, albeit with various restrictions, would at least continue to exist as an possible activity in Idaho.