The following Code of Ethics is taken from a Brochure originally published in Washington State, USA, in 1983. Although from a different place and time, most of the Ethics are still relevant to gem and mineral fossicking in Australia today. By way of explanation; “A Rockhound” is a person who goes out hunting for specific types of Minerals, Crystals and Gemstones.
A ROCKHOUNDER’S CODE OF ETHICS
I WILL respect both private and public property and will do no collecting on privately owned land without permission from the owner.
I WILL keep informed on all laws, regulations and rules governing collecting on public lands and will observe them.
I WILL, to the best of my ability, ascertain the boundary lines of property on which I plan to collect.
I WILL use no firearms or blasting materials in collecting areas.
I WILL cause no willful damage to property of any kind, such as fences, signs, buildings, etc.
I WILL leave all gates as found.
I WI LL build fires only in designated or safe places and will be certain they are completely extinguished before leaving the area.
I WILL discard no burning materials – matches, cigarettes, etc.
I WILL fill all excavation holes which may be dangerous to livestock.
I WILL not contaminate wells, creeks or other water supplies.
I WILL cause no damage to collecting material and will take home only what I can reasonably use.
I WILL support the Rockhound Project H .E. L.P. ( Help Eliminate Litter, Please) and will leave all collecting areas devoid of litter, regardless of how found.
I WILL cooperate with Field Trip leaders and those in designated authority in all collecting areas.
I WILL report to my Club or Federation Officers, Bureau of Land Management, or other proper authorities, any deposit of petrified wood or other material on public lands which should be protected for the enjoyment of future generations and for public, educational, and scientific purposes.
I WILL appreciate and protect our heritage of Natural Resources.
I WILL observe the “Golden Rule,” * will use Good Outdoor Manners and will at all times conduct myself in a manner which will add to the stature and public image of Rockhounds everywhere.
Taken from
“GEMS AND MINERALS OF WASHINGTON” By Bob Pattie. Washington State Mineral Council 1983. Revised 1985”
*”Golden Rule”: We haven’t yet been able to establish what this Golden Rule is.