An act relating to the use of sluice boxes for recreational mineral prospecting

This bill would allow recreational mineral prospectors in Vermont to use small, nonmotorized sluice boxes in watercourses, provided they meet specific conditions. The legislation permits this activity only after obtaining approval from the Secretary of Natural Resources and requires that prospecting occur in state watercourses or on private land with the owner's permission. Key restrictions include limiting sluice boxes to 60 inches in length, requiring hand operation, prohibiting excavation on watercourse banks, and banning use in wetlands. The bill also exempts hand panning from permit requirements and maintains the existing ban on suction dredges.