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

[Norm Lehrman]

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)