[meteorite-list] New BLM regs: Tempest in a teacup?

From: Norm Lehrman <nlehrman_at_meteoritecentral.com>
Date: Sun, 30 Sep 2012 20:17:21 -0700 (PDT)
Message-ID: <1349061441.57650.YahooMailRC_at_web184805.mail.gq1.yahoo.com>

All,

I have been following this thread with great confusion, and maybe there IS
something I don't understand.? Meteorite collecting has previously fallen under
the general rules of rockhounding, and the new changes merely formalize a
specific policy that is no great change from the past rules.? I am quite sure I
will be hugey chastised for my ignorance.? Please correct me if I missed
something.

The previous rules said 25 pounds and/or ?one rock.? Now it's 10 pounds and no
provision for the big one with respect to meteorites.? How often will that
actually afect us?? Almost never.? The use of motorized vehicles off marked
roads is also a general policy, not just for us.? Metal detectors are explicitly
allowed.? Surely a magnet on a stick is also still fine.

Commercial exploitation of BLM ground is subject to a long standing guideline.?
Find a monster?? It is only fair that the land-owner (all Americans) should get
some benefit.? This is no change.? If you want to harvest building stones or
ornamental boulders, you pay a fee.? We will too.? No real change.

I see no great disaster here.? Just a formalization of a specific policy, thanks
(?)? to our own loud self-promotion in its various forms.? Of course they had to
get explicit.? It is not much more than a clear, specific, restatement of the
rules we were all subject to before now.? Or did no one understand this?? Yes,
they may choose to make their point by prosecuting someone, but I will be amazed
if this involves changes in the law.? Just enforcement of those already extant.?
At worst with fairly minor changes.

Have at it.? I am waiting to be reprimanded for my folly.? What am I missing?

Best,
Norm (www.tektitesource.com)
Received on Sun 30 Sep 2012 11:17:21 PM PDT