SB 670 has passed and due to a two thirds urgency vote is effective immediately now that Gov. Schwarzenegger has signed it. So, for now, no more suction dredging in the state of California.

This ban will be in effect until the Department of Fish and Game can complete a study on how much it harms salmon.

Proponents of the bill wish to restore salmon  and steelhead runs and claim that dredging sucks up salmon eggs and dislodges settled mercury.

I believe that the dredges collect more mercury than they “stir up”. I also believe this is the last day anyone legally suction dredges in California. Once they get it, it never comes back.

What do you think about all this and what will the ultimate outcome be. Login or register and leave a comment.