Once again it's a case of the "Golden Rule" Those with the gold make the rules! We as small scale miners and prospectors don't have the $$$$ to front an effective battle against the Eco-Nazi storm troopers. THEY have the money to grease the wheels of justice, we don't.
Should there be a third party study on the effects of dredging? Of course there should be, but who is going to pay for it? Like most scientific studies, it would take time and money and whoever does it would of course want to make those that pay for it happy.
That the courts can't be unbiased goes without saying. It's not part of the real system that we all have to live with. Over the years I've seen too many laws put n the books that were never on any ballot. Yet there they are costing all of us in one way or another. Those we elect to represent us don't listen to us, just to the special interest groups that line their pockets.
This is an issue with some very far reaching effects but the courts just don't seem to understand that fact. Until we the people put our foot down and stand up for our rights, those people with money and influence will continue to walk all over us. It's time for the American People to take their power back from the special interest groups and look out for what it best for everyone, not just the privileged few.