Rock Collecting

Monongahela National Forest does not process commercial proposals for dimension stone or for gravel or aggregates quarrying. There are many existing private commercial quarries near forest lands meeting public’s demand for this stone type.

The Forest does allow for private, noncommercial, personal use rock collection. Flagstone or other dimension stone can be collected after obtaining a Rock Collecting Permit, as outlined in 36 CFR 228.62. The limit is 3 tons per permit, or as agreed upon by the designated Forest Service Officer. There is a $10.00 processing charge per permit.

Rules and Restrictions

Rock must be collected manually by hand or by using non-mechanized hand tools (e.g., shovel, pick). No overland vehicle travel is allowed. Rock collection is not allowed in streams, streambank, wetlands, rock outcrops or other areas designated as “prohibited for collection” by a Forest Service Officer. Rocking collecting in wilderness areas is prohibited. Archaeological resources are prohibited from collection or disturbance. All limitations listed are needed to minimize disturbance and effects on other forest resources.

Rock can only be used for personal use. Rock cannot be sold or bartered. Collection by hand or hand tools is the only collection methodology approved. This tools limitation is needed to minimize disturbance and effects on other forest resources. No vehicular or all-terrain vehicle overland travel is allowed.

More Information

Contact your local Ranger Station for more information and guidance or contact the Forest Geologist at (304) 635-4491