The Obsidian Collection Season Starts on June 29, 2024

Alturas, Calif., June 10, 2024— The Warner Mountains' designated obsidian collection areas will be open from June 29 to Labor Day for rockhounds with a permit. Here are the details:
- Adults 18 and older can get one-day permits at the Modoc National Forest Headquarters in Alturas, Calif. You'll need a valid picture ID, and the permits are issued during normal business hours from Monday to Friday.
- Each permit authorizes the collection of the equivalent volume of two 5-gallon buckets of obsidian, which is approximately 100 lbs.
- No more than three permits can be issued to one person per year.
- Only hand tools are allowed for collection. No power or motorized equipment, including carts/wheelbarrows and pneumatic hammers, is permitted.
- These permits are for personal use only, and there is no fee for them.
I hope this summary helps!
It is recommended that you are prepared for the heat, wear gloves to protect your hands, sturdy shoes, a bucket, or canvas bag to carry the obsidian, a spray bottle of water, and sunscreen. If you bring your dog Forest Service regulations require all dogs, to be on a leash and under your control.
The four collection areas are shown on the map at https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1103796.pdf
Please contact our front desk if you have any further questions: sm.fs.modoc_info@usda.gov or call (530) 233 5811.