Posted on May 6, 2024
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is now accepting applications through June 1 for small suction dredge mining permits for the 2024 season.
The permits, part of the Small Suction Dredge Mining General Permit (SSDMGP), are currently undergoing a public comment period. If approved, these permits would authorize discharge into waters of the United States from small suction dredge mining operations within the state of Idaho. The general permit delineates the pollutants of concern, specifies required limits for each pollutant, and outlines monitoring and reporting requirements aimed at ensuring compliance with the permit and safeguarding human health and the environment.
Applications for special dredging locations — Grimes, Elk, Mores (GEM) Creeks, South Fork Clearwater River, McCoy Creek, Lolo Creek, Orogrande Creek, French Creek, and Moose Creek — must be submitted by June 1.
For inquiries regarding the permit or eligibility: Angela Anderson at angela.anderson@deq.idaho.gov or 208-373-0560. For technical questions: Shanda Lowder at Shanda.Lowder@deq.idaho.gov or 208-373-0136.
