[meteorite-list] New position on hunting BLM lands

[Brian Cox]

I'm enjoying the information you fine collectors are putting on here as I 
learn something new everyday. I thought I'd toss my two cents in there as an 
f.y.i.

An acquaintance who has a mining claim on BLM is not able to mine the claim 
now that the entire area in California has been practically sealed off and 
the local sheriffs and BLM personnel won't allow anyone onto it. There  were 
first concerns of people dumping their old rehabbing projects from homes 
being rehabbed (Imagine that, someone dumping on BLM land) and the dangers 
of asbestos. Then, environmental groups, which I generally always support 
were questioning the safety of the water table and the native salamanders 
and various native plant species. The bottom line is that the BLM decided 
with all this going on that the easiest way was to close it down entirely, 
no more dumping of possible asbestos materials and no danger to the native 
flora and fauna.

My guess is that similar situations will be occurring throughout the West, 
if they have not already been put into place or are in the works.

Have a great day!

Brian