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The Three Key Federal Land Managers
| Agency | Primary Rockhounding Status | Typical Collection Limits (Noncommercial) |
| Bureau of Land Management (BLM) | Generally Open. The largest and most accessible acreage. | Up to 25 lbs + 1 piece per day, max 250 lbs per year. |
| U.S. Forest Service (USFS) | Permit-Dependent. National Forests and Grasslands. | Often requires a free Personal Use Permit for larger quantities (check local Ranger District). |
| National Park Service (NPS) | Strictly Prohibited. (National Parks, most Monuments). | Zero tolerance. Do not collect anything. |
Essential Tools for Land Boundary Verification
Using modern mapping tools is critical for avoiding illegal trespass onto private land or restricted federal areas like active mining claims.
- BLM Mineral Records: Check the BLM’s Mineral and Land Records System (MLRS) for active mining claims, as collecting on a valid claim without permission is theft.
- State Geological Surveys: Consult your state’s geological survey website for maps and known collecting areas.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Collection Rules
The BLM governs the vast majority of federally managed land open to rockhounding, primarily in the Western states.
Personal-Use Limits and Noncommercial Requirement
BLM regulations (43 CFR 8365.1-5(b)(2)) are built around the concept of casual collection for personal, noncommercial use.
- The “Noncommercial” Mandate: Collected material must not be sold, bartered, or traded. It is for private collection or educational display only.
- Quantity Limits: The standard limit for mineral specimens, semiprecious gemstones, and common invertebrate fossils is:
- Daily: Up to 25 pounds of material plus one piece of any weight.
- Annual: A total of 250 pounds per person per calendar year.
Complete Prohibitions
- National Parks and Monuments (NPS): All natural materials are protected.
- Military Installations and Dam Sites: Closed to the public for safety and security.
Lands Requiring Special Permission
- They are not public access land and typically require a paid permit or lease for collection.
- Tribal Lands (Indian Reservations): Collection is prohibited without the express consent of the Tribal government.
The Ethical Rockhound’s Code: Safety and Stewardship
Responsible rockhounding protects the environment and preserves access for future generations.
Safety First in the Field
- Tell Someone: Always let a family member or friend know your exact location and expected return time.
- Mine Safety: Never enter abandoned mines or shafts. They are unstable, prone to collapse, and contain dangerous gases.
Environmental Responsibility
- Minimize Disturbance: Avoid damaging live vegetation and only use appropriate, non-mechanized tools.