The California Parks and Recreation Commission will spend $1.9 million in park bond money to relocate and rebuild a replica of Sutter's Mill in Coloma -- considered the birthplace of the California Gold Rush.
Scott Nakaji, superintendent of the state parks' Gold Fields District, said he hopes the new replica will be in place by early 2011.
The new replica will replace one built in 1968 and will be closer to the south fork of the American River and the actual historic sawmill site, which is now in the river channel.
State budget cuts mean that operations will be scaled back at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, where the mill is located. The park may be open fewer days, and maintenance services may be reduced.
But Nakaji said work on the replica will be covered by Proposition 84 park bond money that's intended for major capital projects and can't be spent on maintenance or operations.
"We remain optimistic that this is a temporary fiscal downturn," he said. "Wouldn't it be great if when things get better, we had a new mill for the public to visit."
The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors endorsed the request for public funds, but some members questioned rebuilding the mill closer to the river where it might be more prone to flooding. They argued that it could be rebuilt at the current site for less than $1.9 million.
Supervisor Ray Nutting suggested the park engage sawmill enthusiasts to create a small working mill.
"The goal is to make it operational so you could see the blade move up and down," Nakaji said.
Call The Bee's Cathy Locke, (916) 773-6866.
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