Geology
Mining Information
The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests have a rich and long history as a mining center. The Idaho Gold Rush began in this area in 1861 and numerous Gold Rush towns like Pierce and Florence sprang up to exploit these resources. Remains and relics of this past can be seen in places like the Gospel Hump and this heritage continues today. For information about mining permits and processes, follow these links:
Mining Information
USDA Forest Service authority to manage mining related surface disturbing activities on National Forest System Lands is established through Acts such as the 1897 Organic Act, and the 1947 Mineral Materials Act as amended by the 1955 Multiple Use Mining Act.
Prior to any prospecting activities that will cause surface disturbance or mining of a known deposit an individual must contact the local Ranger District and ask to speak with the Minerals Administrator. Providing a thorough description of the proposed activities (i.e. location, timing, scale, type of activity, potential equipment use, desired access, target mineral/deposit, etc.) will allow the District Ranger and Minerals Administrator to determine the appropriate level of permitting required for the proposed activity.
Minimum impact activities such as mapping and hand sample collection often require only a Notice of Intent (NOI), while factors such as mechanized equipment use or area restrictions (e.g. closed routes or constructed routes) may require a more extensive permit process using a Plan of Operations (POO).
The Forest Service uses these permits to manage the extent of surface disturbance and to ensure that reclamation is completed. A bond will likely be required to address activities permitted under a Plan of Operations.
Follow the links below for information about mining:
Questions about the Minerals & Geology Program should be directed to:
Katie Rhode
Geologist, Minerals Program Manager
208-935-4262
katherine.rhode@usda.gov
Marty Jones
Geologist, Minerals Administrator
208-935-4272
martin.jones@usda.gov