EASTERN OREGON
MINING ASSOCIATION
JULY 2016
Volume 322
EASTERN OREGON MINING ASSOCIATION MEETING
Meetings are held on the first Friday of the month. The next meeting will be Friday, JULY 1, 2016 at the Baker City Hall. The building is located at 1st and Auburn Streets in Baker City. The Board meeting starts at 6:00 PM. The general meeting starts at 6:30 PM.
Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings. There is time for discussing mining and getting to know other miners. The mining season is underway and some people are mining. There should be a story or two. As usual there will be a drawing for a $50 silver medallion at the meeting!
MINERS JUBILEE JULY 15, 16, 17 2016
There is a lot of excitement about this year’s Jubilee. Gold Rush crew will take part in the parade. We will have more mining vendors than ever before.
As with every year since the start of Miners Jubilee back in 1982, the EOMA has hosted the Oregon Miners Gold Panning Championships and the Kids Gold Panning tubs. Ash Grove is sponsoring the cash prizes for the Oregon Gold Panning Championships. Over the years, a couple of organizations have tried to hijack the Oregon Miners Gold Panning Championships name, but we got that stopped by filing a Trade Mark with the State of Oregon to protect it from being taken away from us.
Anyone who wants to set up a mining booth on Grove Street along-side ours may do so at no cost. The EOMA will pick up the insurance for all mining venders. Give Chuck a call to reserve your space at 541-523-3285. We miners need to keep a large public presence and promote our industry.
SILENT AUCTION ITEMS NEEDED FOR MINERS JUBILEE
Please go through your shop, garage or back yard and see if you can find some items to donate for our silent auction. Mining related items are great, such as tools, hoses, fire equipment but anything else you don't need might be something someone else needs! This is our one fund raiser for the year, help us make it successful! You can drop off items at Chuck Chase’s house, 740 Valley Avenue, here in Baker City. Chuck's phone number is 541-523-3285.
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT-
Do you think private property should be confiscated by the Federal Government because they claim they cannot find a piece of paper that you have sent to them by certified mail? Do you think you should have a chance to correct this situation before they confiscate your property? I am talking about what has happened to many miners that have fallen victim to BLM’s system of recording and administering mining claims, and associated paper work.
If the BLM says they did not receive a maintenance fee waiver at the proper time, or says they signed for an envelope but when they opened it the envelope was empty, you no longer own your private property. Miners have the right to appeal this decision, but they seldom if ever prevail. If this happens to a claim that is in an area that the government has withdrawn from mineral entry, there is no recourse to recovering your private property.
Miners must be diligent in submitting small miner waivers early, just as soon as assessment work has been completed. We should all try to have waivers submitted by the end of July, a month before the August 31 deadline. All correspondence with BLM should be via certified mailings, or if you can, hand deliver to the Portland Office. There needs to be a push to correct this taking of private property without prior notice or a chance to correct a minor administrative defect.
DO PLACER MINERS NEED EXCLUSION CERTIFICATES?
Many of you will remember DOGAMI's Exclusion Certificate debate from the last legislative session. This rule required placer miners to apply for an EC by June 30, 2016, with a cost of $400.
We are pleased to announce that the permanent rule passed last Friday with several changes from the original. Placer miners will not need to apply for ECs until June 30, 2017. DOGAMI reduced the application fee to $80, from the original $400, but since fees are set in statute, the renewal fee will be $150. Obviously, it would be better to apply for a new EC each year, rather than pay the renewal fee! Rich Angstrom will be introducing legislation to exempt placer miners from ECs.
GRANITE CREEK FEIS RECORD OF DECISION (ROD) SIGNED JUNE 17, 2016
The ROD has been signed, now Ranger Ian Reed of the Umatilla National Forest, and Ranger Jeff Tomac of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest can sign individual Plans of Operation. This procedure involves each miner signing a set of stipulations (Exhibit A) which are attached to the Plan of Operation, and posting a reclamation bond.
Analysis by the Forest Service in the Granite Watershed Mining Projects EIS has shown that Plans of Operation that will be approved do not run a risk of impacting water quality. That is good for the miners who want to mine, but still miners must be extremely careful to adhere to the terms of their Plans of Operation.
METHOW VALLEY WITHDRAWAL PROPOSED
Washington State U.S. Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, both Democrats, have introduced a new bill, the Methow Headwaters Protection Act of 2016, to protect 340,000 acres of National Forest in the Methow Valley from potential development of a large-scale mine. The upper Methow is essential to salmon recovery, and more than $100 million has been invested in restoration and conservation efforts in the Methow Valley alone, says a joint press release from the two senators.
Federal, state, local and private investments have gone to land protection, restoration and restoration projects across the Methow River watershed, supporting outdoor recreation, farmland preservation, and salmon and wildlife habitat enhancement and restoration activities, say the senators. The Upper Methow Valley is home to seven federally-protected fish and wildlife species, including the Northern spotted owl, grizzly bear, Canada lynx, spring chinook salmon, steelhead and bull trout. Healthy and intact habitat is also home to bald and golden eagles, martens, mountain goats, mule and white-tailed deer, and wolves, says the release.
The legislation would restrict potential commercial activity and withdraw from mineral entry any deposits that could lead to an industrial-scale mine on the lands, and would protect the headwaters of the Methow River.
SB838 AND THE PROHIBITION ON USING MOTORIZED EQUIPMENT IS THE LAW
We all understand that suction dredge mining is prohibited in most streams in Oregon, either because of Essential Salmon habitat, bull trout, or streams are listed for sediment or arsenic or toxins. But remember also, any mining using motorized equipment, even pumps, is prohibited within 100 yards of salmon, steelhead and bull trout waterways if there is a "removal or disturbance of streamside vegetation in a manner that may impact water quality". This law applies to Federal and private lands alike.
Miners in the Granite Watershed, even those who will be getting approved Plans of Operation, will be at risk of enforcement by the State Police because of the current law, SB838. Scott Horngren, the attorney for OMA, has an excellent case to go forward with. His case is an "applied challenge" addressing supremacy, property rights and the constitution. Miners in the Granite Watershed should be paying close attention.
GOLD RUSH AND DISCOVERY CHANNEL COME TO BURNT RIVER-Jan Alexander
Be sure to tune in next season to watch Gold Rush and see how they did mining in Eastern Oregon. The Gold Rush mining crew, film crew and support staff frequent Unity and Baker businesses. These are great people, spending money in our communities, and at the same time, promoting mining. Our rural communities appreciate the business and the opportunity to showcase our area and its minerals potential.
LONG TIME MINER, BOARD OF DIRECTOR AND FRIEND RETIRES-Chuck Chase
Ed Bechtel has mined on Elk Creek for as long as most of us can remember. Last year, he retired and sold his famous nugget mine. Ed was known by many miners, and received even more notoriety with a piece done by ICMJ Editor Scott Harn on Ed's mining operation. Ed, through the years made it a family operation at times, bringing his wife, kids and grandkids down to help him pick up all those nuggets out of his sluice box. Ed and his wife Jackie, have been strong supporters of the EOMA over the years. At Miners Jubilee each July, they would help set up, not only their own booth, but also EOMA's booth. They always promoted mining, talking to miners and the public about the industry. Theirs was the most popular booth at Jubilee, where they sold their Elk Creek gold, and had crafted gold jewelry that Jackie made. Ed and Jackie donated gold for the panning tubs, nuggets for raffles and every year donated items for the silent auction.
Ed and Jackie recently sent a letter to the EOMA stating that their mining venture had come to an end, and they enclosed a rather large donation to the EOMA. The Mining Association, and I personally, would like to thank both Ed and Jackie for their support and their donation to help support mining here in Oregon. May all your nuggets be big and plentiful in whatever venture you decide to follow next. God bless you both and best of luck from all of us here at the EOMA.
MILLIONS OF ACRES OF MINERAL RIGHTS WITHDRAWN- Ken Alexander
The Federal Land Policy and Management Act Section 204(c) (1) gives Congress the power to stop the millions of acres of mineral rights being withdrawn in five different States including Oregon. This withdrawal will affect the ability to develop minerals in these millions of acres for at least twenty years. This withdrawal will limit the ability of these States to benefit from any economic activity generated by the use of these minerals. Why? The dubious answer is to save some sage brush that may affect the survival of the unlisted Sage Grouse, a bird that is still hunted for sport.
There is no evidence that developing minerals in a responsible manner will endanger the habitat or populations of these birds. Why haven’t our Senators and Representatives in Congress objected to this land grab by the Federal Bureau of Land Management? Maybe because we haven't been vocal enough about this injustice. We need to call both our Senators and Representatives in Congress and request that they stop this nonsense. Development of our minerals resources is important to our local, State, and USA economies.
BUD PIERCE GAINING ON KATE BROWN FOR GOVERNOR
New poll numbers released Thursday by the Bud Pierce campaign show a promising upward trend in support of Salem oncologist Dr. Bud Pierce. The poll shows Pierce is trailing Democratic Governor Kate Brown by less than three points, within the margin of error. “I look forward to meeting with voters and sharing my plans for the state,” said Pierce. “I think voters are getting excited about my vision for what Oregon can become under new leadership.”
BLUE MOUNTAIN FOREST PLAN REVISION TEAM- Ken Alexander
It is difficult to stay interested in what the Forest Service is doing when the good weather comes and there is a short season to get some mining done. However, the FS is still busily working on the forest plans. Their June Newsletter contains information about Recommended Wilderness, Backcountry Areas, Wildlife Corridors, and Designated Routes. The citizens who will be most impacted by these plans often don’t have the expertise or time to understand the process that is being used to design these plans. Because this is such a convoluted process, it is essential that our Counties invoke coordination with the FS, so our own experts can help the rest of us understand what the FS is trying to do to us. The FS team has changed some of the language, and is taking out some inflammatory buzz words such as “designated routes”, but it looks as if the intent to restrict access, increase wilderness areas, “designate routes”, and increase non-motorized areas are still major parts of the plans.
Please stay involved. Tell the FS that they need to co-ordinate their plans with the Counties, and make the plans responsive to the impacts they will have on the economy and custom and culture of the local areas. Don’t forget the December report where an analysis of roads in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, claimed that 1,261 miles of roads are not needed for forest management or access to the area. Access needs for logging, grazing, mining and recreation should be the backbone of natural resource utilization under a multiple use plan.
There is going to be a public conference call with FS staff on July, 13 5:30 to 6:30pm. Dial 1-888-844-9904 access code 26510888#. More information can be found on the following website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd505992.pdf
CLEAN WATER ACT VICTORY FOR PEOPLE- PLF
The 8th Ciruit Court of Appeals gave Pacific Legal Foundation a resounding victory in Hawkes v Corps. A unanimous three-judge panel held a Corps of Engineers’ Jurisdictional Determination (i.e. wetlands delineation) is immediately reviewable in court and subject to challenge.
One of the judges added this insightful observation: "In my view, the Court in Sackett was concerned with just how difficult and confusing it can be for a landowner to predict whether or not his or her land falls within CWA jurisdiction—a threshold determination that puts the administrative process in motion. This is a unique aspect of the CWA; most laws do not require the hiring of expert consultants to determine if they even apply to you or your property. This jurisdictional determination was precisely what the Court deemed reviewable in Sackett. See Sackett, 132 S. Ct. at 1374–75 (Ginsburg, J., concurring). Accordingly, I concur in the judgment of the court". For the first time since the inception of the Clean Water Act (1972), overzealous government bureaucrats can be held immediately accountable in court for their erroneous assertions of federal control over private wetlands and other waters. This levels the playing field for landowners who have been at the mercy of overreaching government for far too long.
HAS YOUR ADDRESS CHANGED?
A lot of miners go south for the winter, and we would really appreciate it if you would let us know your winter address, or if you would like us to hold your newsletter until spring. It costs EOMA Fifty Seven Cents ($.57) for every newsletter that is returned. Please do let us know when your address changes.
PUT AN END TO FAKE EMERGENCIES-Sen Doug Whitsett
The right to refer measures passed by the Oregon Legislative Assembly for the voters to decide is established in our state Constitution. However, the Democratic led legislature routinely avoids allowing people to vote on the laws, such as gun control, by declaring them to be an emergency. Emergency clauses are added to the bills for the express purpose of preventing their referral to the voters to decide. For the past several legislative sessions, as many as two-thirds of all the bills introduced have had emergency clauses attached. Oregon citizens have taken it upon themselves to force the issue at the ballot box. The solution is to get on board and sign this petition for Initiative Petition 49, which would amend Article IV, Section 28 of the Oregon Constitution to end emergency clause abuse. If enacted, the Oregon Constitution will require a two-thirds vote of the members of both the House and the Senate to affix an emergency clause to a bill. To sign the petition Go to: http://nofakeemergencies.com/
EOMA SILVER MEDALLIONS
EOMA medallions are beautiful proof grade one ounce silver medallions with the addition of real gold “nuggets” in the pan. We still have a limited supply of previous year's medallions, as well as the gorgeous 2016 medallions. These are currently selling for $50.00 apiece plus $5.00 shipping, handling, and insurance. (Prices are subject to change). You can order yours from the EOMA website, and pay by pay-pal. Or, you can send $50 plus $5.00 shipping and handling to EOMA, Medallions, PO Box 932, Baker City, OR 97814, or call 541-523-3285.
VISIT EOMA'S AND OMA FACEBOOK PAGES
Eastern Oregon Mining Association now has a Facebook page. For those of you who use Facebook, check it out. There is a step by step photo display of a couple of miners who are building trommels. Sign in, and come learn, add your suggestions, and get to know other miners.
https://www.facebook.com/easternoregonminingassociation/
There is also a Facebook page for Oregon Mining Association. Lots of useful information can be found on these sites. It is not hard to become a user of Facebook once you get used to the idea that Facebook “friends” can have a little different meaning than what you may have thought of as “friends” as you were growing up. Facebook certainly gives you the opportunity to share info not found in the mainstream media.
https://www.facebook.com/OregonMiningAssociation/
EOMA ADVERTISING AND SALE LISTINGS
The advertising listings are only $1 per month to get your ad listed below. Send your ad to: EOMA, Box 932, Baker City, OR 97814 along with your remittance for each month you want us to run your ad. The number next to your ad is how many months your ad will run.
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LOST DUTCHMAN MINING ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP & CLASSIFIER
Bob and I are no longer able to mine, but this is a great opportunity for someone younger than us to mine on LDMA properties, meet people interested in mining, and at the same time have some fun and get some gold. $2000.00. Also, State Highway classifier with 4 different screens, motor and pump $150. Case tractor with loader and back hoe mounted on 5th wheel trailer. $7,500. Call 541-526-5998 or gulchgold@yahoo.com
NEED HELP AT YOUR MINE?-(2)
I am recently retired, a hard worker and want to learn more about mining. I can help you get your assessment work done, or assist in the mining operation. I am not looking for money, I am looking for experience. I have my own truck and camper, and am self sufficient. Call Ray at 541-892-0933 and leave message or phone contact number.
BUY GOLD -(1)
Want to buy raw gold, looking for a couple of ounces. Contact Bob Sunderman at 541-962-5202
CARETAKER POSITION AVAILABLE
Wanted: Full time caretaker for remote property about 20 miles from John Day, Oregon. Primitive, well insulated house, wood heat only, good water from spring. Off the grid, power from gas generator if needed. ¼ mile level driveway off county maintained road. Must have own chain saw, 4 x 4 vehicle with chains, cut own firewood, and help with chores. Inquire by e-mail (tseal@unr.edu) or by mail to Caretaker, PO Box 8353, Spring Creek, NV 89815.
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