Free use permits may be issued for collecting individual specimens of petrified wood weighing over 250 pounds. However, the applicant must certify that the specimen will be displayed to the public in a museum or similar institution. Before issuing contracts or free use permits, the BLM must conduct appropriate environmental assessments. These include special studies or inventories of cultural values, threatened or endangered plant and wildlife species, or other resources. Stipulations or conditions may be included in the terms of the contract to assure protection of the environment and reclamation of the land.
Reclamation is a requirement following any surface disturbing activity.
Reclamation of disturbed sites is important to be sure that the land can later be used productively for other purposes. Reclamation includes removing all surface debris, recontouring, reducing steep slopes, and planting vegetation. The terms of sale contracts and free use permits are specific and in writing. The terms include location of the land, value of the material per cubic yard or ton, a payment schedule, bonding requirements, duration of the permit or contract, measures to protect the environment, and reclamation standards. Unauthorized Removal Persons who remove mineral materials from public lands without a permit or contract are considered unauthorized users and in trespass.