General Authorization for Recreational & Small-scale Placer Mining within ESH Areas
DSL has revised and simplified the authorization application process for recreational and small-scale placer miners that disturb less than 25 cubic yards per year within streams designated as essential salmon habitat or state scenic waterways.
You may apply and receive a Placer Mining Authorization On-Line at www.statelandsonline.com.
A simplified paper authorization application also is available. A one-page form serves as both the application and approval document. Fill out the top half, send it to DSL to review and we will return it with an approval signature. Keep this authorization with you when you are conducting mining activities. The form is available under 'General Authorizations'.
The authorization grants blanket approval to placer mine in any essential salmon habitat stream.In order to avoid impacts to fish, DSL requires that mining occur only during approved in-water work periods  .
- Applicants who plan to operate a large suction dredge (intake hose greater than four inches in diameter) also will need to send a copy of the authorization form to the Dept. of Environmental Quality and pay an application fee.
- Placer mining affecting more than 50 cubic yards (except on Essential Salmonid Habitat streams) requires an individual Removal-Fill Permit.
- Placer mining affecting more than 25 cubic yards in an Essential Salmonid Habitat Stream requires an individual Removal-Fill Permit.
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Suction dredging is no longer allowed in State Scenic Waterways.
DSL requires miners to send a Recreational Placer Mining year-end report form summarizing activity. Failure to report may result in cancellation of the approval.
For more information, read the Oregon Administrative Rules related to placer mining (OAR 141-089-0245) and Oregon Scenic Waterways (OAR 141-100-0055).
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