Garnet digging may be cut short

COEUR d'ALENE - Gem enthusiasts planning to visit the Emerald Creek Garnet Area to dig for Idaho's state gem, the rare star garnet, should plan to visit the site before Aug. 25 to be guaranteed availability of garnet-bearing material.

According to a press release from the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, the garnet area is located within the St. Joe Ranger District.

"Traditionally, the area is open to visitors through Labor Day," the release said. "However, this year Forest Service officials predict the stockpile of garnet-bearing material may be depleted prior to that date."

The Emerald Creek Garnet Area will remain open to the public for as long as garnet-bearing material is available, or through Labor Day, whichever comes first.

The site is open Friday through Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and closed Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Visitors are encouraged to contact the St. Joe Ranger District at (208) 245-2531 for up-to-date information and conditions. Once the site closes for the season, new material will be excavated from the local area and stockpiled for a full 2016 operating season.