Our Mission

Provide education to members, potential members on aspects of prospecting, treasure hunting, small scale mining, increasing member & public awareness of environmental, historical, ecological, conservation, natural habitat and legal issues.

Prospecting Etiquette

Knowing and observing a few basic rules will help make everyone's digging more enjoyable and productive:

I WILL respect private property and will not treasure hunt without the owner's written permission.

I WILL NOT destroy private property, buildings, or what is left of ghost towns and deserted structures.

I WILL NOT tamper with others' signs, structural facilities, or equipment.

I WILL remove and properly dispose of trash that I find and use.

I WILL NOT litter.

I WILL leave gates as found.

I WILL appreciate and protect our heritage of natural resources, wildlife, fisheries, and private property.

I WILL be thoughtful, considerate, and courteous to those around me at all times.

I WILL respect all laws or ordinances, and especially those governing prospecting and mining.

I WILL have on site all necessary permits and licenses.

I WILL only build fires in designated or safe places and in accordance with current federal, state, and local guidelines.

I WILL protect my hobby and act as a good-will ambassador at all times.

I WILL fill in all holes when I am finished prospecting, treasure hunting, or metal detecting.

The mission of the Gold Prospectors Association of America is to further the advancement of gold prospecting and treasure hunting by:

• Developing an organization that actively encourages camaraderie, fellowship, and personal contact among people with the same interests in gold prospecting;
  

• Adhering to environmental laws;
  

• Following the Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, and Army Corps of Engineers laws and doctrines;
  

• Promote increased public awareness of ecologically sound prospecting and small-scale recreational mining for adults, families, and children;
  

• Teaching club members how to prospect for gold and treasures;
  

• Developing teachers and mentors;
  

• Educating the general public about the history of gold prospecting and of the importance of mineral extraction.