Prospectors' Code of Ethics
Our community thrives on principles of respect, responsibility, and stewardship. These ethics guide responsible prospecting while protecting our environment.
Four Pillars of Responsible Prospecting
Respect and honor other prospectors
- Respect other prospectors' claims and will not work those claims without their owners' permission
- Be thoughtful, considerate, and courteous to those around me at all times
- Share knowledge and skills with fellow prospectors to strengthen the community
- Resolve disputes professionally and respectfully
Protect and preserve our natural world
- Appreciate and protect our heritage of natural resources, wildlife, and fisheries
- Remove and properly dispose of all trash and debris; do not litter under any circumstances
- Not prospect in areas closed to prospecting and mining
- Fill all prospecting holes to prevent hazards and soil erosion
- Not remove stream bank material, destroy natural vegetation or woody debris dams
- Not discharge excess silt into waterways
Handle equipment with care and responsibility
- Be careful with fuels and motor oils and recognize their potential destructive effect on the environment
- Refuel motorized equipment away from streams and water sources
- Not allow oil from motorized equipment to drip onto the ground or into water
- Only build fires in designated or safe places in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines
- Properly maintain all equipment to minimize environmental impact
Follow all laws and prioritize safety
- Have on site all necessary permits and licenses before prospecting
- Respect all laws and ordinances governing prospecting and mining
- Respect private property rights and obtain permission before entering private lands
- Follow all local, state, and federal environmental regulations
- Report any illegal mining or prospecting activities
10 Core Ethical Principles
Honor established mining claims and seek permission before accessing any claimed areas.
Example: If you discover an interesting site, look for claim markers first. If claimed, find the owner and ask permission.
Leave sites better than you found them. Fill holes, remove trash, and restore natural features.
Example: Always fill prospecting holes to prevent erosion. Pack out everything you pack in, plus existing trash.
Never contaminate water sources. Keep equipment away from streams and waterways.
Example: Set up camp 50+ feet from water. Never refuel near water or allow fuel spills near streams.
Only build fires in designated areas. Always fully extinguish fires and follow fire restrictions.
Example: Check local fire restrictions before your trip. Never leave fires unattended. Use designated fire rings.
Obtain all required permits and licenses before prospecting. Know your local regulations.
Example: Research local requirements before each trip. Some areas require claims, permits, or specific licenses.
Minimize disturbance to wildlife and natural habitats. Observe from a distance.
Example: Keep noise levels reasonable, especially during breeding seasons. Never harm animals or disturb habitats.
Maintain equipment properly to prevent environmental contamination.
Example: Check for leaks before use. Carry absorbent materials to clean up any accidental spills immediately.
Share ethical practices and help maintain community standards.
Example: Mentor new prospectors on proper techniques. Kindly educate others on ethical practices.
Leave areas accessible to others. Don't create obstacles or hazards.
Example: Don't leave equipment that blocks trails. Restore terrain to natural state when done.
Support policies that protect mining access while promoting responsibility.
Example: Join mining clubs and organizations. Support responsible mining legislation.