Gold dredging

Gold dredging is a method used to extract gold from underwater sediments in rivers or streams. It involves using a large, powered machine—called a dredge—that vacuums up sediment from the riverbed. The mixture is then processed through a series of sluices or screens that separate the heavier gold particles from lighter materials. This technique allows miners to recover gold efficiently from underwater deposits that might be difficult to access through traditional land-based mining. Gold dredging has historically contributed significantly to gold production but is also regulated to minimize environmental impact.