The Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) will hear public comments on a proposal to mine state lands below the ordinary high water mark on the Salmon River upstream from Lucile ID. The hearing will be held on July 18^th, 2007, at 6:00pm in the conference room at the Idaho Department of Lands office, 555 Deinhard Lane, McCall ID. If possible, please attend to ask IDL to deny the application for the following reasons:

·        Mining activities below the ordinary high water mark are very destructive to the ecological health of the Salmon River. The loss of riparian vegetation and possible impacts to water quality could endanger listed salmon and steelhead populations.

·        The aesthetic and recreational qualities of the Salmon River provide valuable income for local businesses along with benefiting Idaho’s tourism economy – far more valuable to Idahoans than the limited income from the proposed lease.

·        Lands below the ordinary high water mark are public trust lands owned by all Idahoans and should be managed for the long-term protection of fish, wildlife and recreation.

If you are unable to attend the hearing, please take a moment and send your comments to the Idaho Department of Lands and the Land Board at:

Attn: Director - Idaho Department of Lands
Secretary to the State Board of Land Commissioners
954 West Jefferson
Post Office Box 83720
Boise, Idaho 83720-0050

Comments should be sent prior to the hearing date. For more information please contact: IRU Conservation Director Kevin Lewis at 208.343.7481 (Office) or 208.830.4870 (Cell)