This includes Rabbit Valley Research Natural area, Fruita Paleontological area, Dinosaur Hill Paleontological area, and Split Rock Paleontological area, or where otherwise prohibited and posted. Rocks, mineral specimens and semi-precious gemstones, petrified wood, common invertebrate and plant fossils may be collected on public lands without charge or permit in reasonable amounts as long as the specimens are for personal use and are not collected for sale or barter to commercial dealers. No undue or unnecessary degradation of the public lands is allowed during the removal of rocks, minerals, gemstones, or fossils. Collection and removal cannot be aided with motorized or mechanized equipment.
Metal detectors are acceptable except on historical sites.
Gold Panning, Dredging, and Sluicing Gold panning is unregulated and allowed anywhere on BLM managed lands within the GJFO area. The type of permit issued depends on the amount of material to be dredged and the location of the dredging. Rules listed above pertain to rock hounding, gold panning, and dredging on BLM lands within the Grand Junction Field Office management area only. Collecting mineral materials in excess of a 5 gallon container requires a permit and fee to do so. Check for mining claims before visiting the site.