U.S. Government Gold-Mining Resources
United States Geological Survey (USGS)
The USGS publishes many topographic maps, geologic maps, and reports. The central source of information for these maps and related materials is the Earth Science Information Center, USGS National Center, Reston, Virginia 22092. Maps and reports are available for purchase from the Branch of Distribution, Box 25286, U.S. Geological Survey, Denver Federal Center, Denver, Colorado, 80225.
http://ask.usgs.gov/sources.html
The U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
The BLM has been delegated by the Secretary of the Interior with the primary responsibility for administering the laws and regulations regarding the disposal of all minerals from all federally-owned lands.
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How to File a Gold Mining Claim
When you have found a site that seems like it’s worth mining or panning and sluicing, you have to follow the correct procedure to ensure that only you have full rights to the gold that you uncover. File your gold claim as quickly as possible, even though you legally have 2-3 months to do so. Here is how to file a gold mining claim.
Disclaimer: These are guidelines and will get you off to a good start. However there are many additional details which is not uncommon for the government! If you’re serious about this endeavor, you will find the Resource blog post very useful.
Placer Claims
For traditional placer claims, in addition to proof of a discovery of a pay streak, each 10 acres must be shown to be mineral-in-character (there is a reasonable expectation of further economic mineral under these lands).
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Laws, Rules, and Regulations to Follow When Staking a Gold Claim
Before staking a gold mine claim or a gold panning claim, you need to know the laws, rules, and regulations that apply. Learning them in advance can save you a lot of time and aggravation. While the following is not a comprehensive list, it’s enough to answer important questions for you and keep you out of trouble!
Who can stake a claim?
A person who is a citizen of the United States of America or has declared an intention to become a citizen with the Immigration and Naturalization Service may locate and hold a mining claim or site. A corporation organized under State law is considered a citizen and may locate and hold a mining claim or site. A corporation is held to the same standards as a citizen.
Who oversees mining claims and activities?
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) handles the exploration and mining claims and for all federally-administered lands including the National Forest System. These activities are controlled by the regulations of the Secretary of the Interior.



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