Gold Vs. Salmon: Fish Advocates And Miners Face Off In Rural Washington

"Blewett Pass, Washington -- Outdoorsmen emerge from their tents and truck beds in the early morning light. After a big breakfast they ready dry suits, diving masks, air hoses and a contraption that looks like a small pontoon boat.
 
This group is carrying on the age-old tradition of small-scale gold mining. Their method of choice is known as suction dredging.
 
“People have been prospecting for gold since prehistoric times,” miner Ron Larson says. “Gold has always lured mankind and man has always chased it. We feel a connection to those early miners.” "

Nils Cowan reports for KCTS 9/Oregon Public Broadcasting December 21, 2015.