ROCKHUNTING RULES
The following code of ethics is used by the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies to govern conduct on field trips. Everyone on a rockhunting field trip should follow this code, whether you belong to an AFMS-affiliated club or not. Note that this version of the code of ethics has been modified to remove items that do not apply to rockhunting on private land in the Big Bend of Texas.
I will respect both private and public property and will do no collecting on privately owned land without permission of the owner.
I will keep informed on all laws, regulations, and rules governing collecting on private 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 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 willful damage to collecting material and will take home only what I can reasonably use.
I will practice conservation and undertake to utilize fully and well the materials I have collected and will recycle my surplus for the pleasure and benefit of others.
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 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.