The latest PLP News and events

September 2026 Newsletter

September 2026

Hello Friends!

Our Annual Fallfest is only a few weeks away!  Look for details in this newsletter.

Federal:
CRITICAL MINERALS DOMINANCE ACT HEARD IN SENATE COMMITTEE — American Exploration & Mining Association.
On July 15, the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources'(ENR) Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests and Mining held a hearing to receive testimony on a long list of bills.  H.R. 4090, Rep. Pete Stauber’s Critical Mineral Dominance Act, was one piece of legislation included on the agenda.

H.R. 4090 would codify certain provisions of President Trump’s Executive Orders relating to domestic hardrock mining.  AEMA was privileged to work with Chairman of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, Pete Stauber’s staff to develop and refine H.R. 4090, and we are encouraged to see it continue through the legislative process in the Senate.  AEMA Executive Director Mark Compton provided ENR committee staff with a statement for the record in support of the bill.

TRUMP ORDER PRIORITIZES DOMESTIC MINERAL SOURCING — American Exploration & Mining Association.
July 20, President Trump signed an executive order – Securing America’s Defense Supply Chains and Ensuring Domestic Acquisition of Critical Materials – to ensure a reliable, independent critical mineral supply chain for military equipment.  The order requires the U.S. to source critical minerals used in key defense systems from domestic or allied nation suppliers to avoid potential economic subversion by China.

PRESIDENT TRUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDERS — American Exploration & Mining Association.
Executive Order 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation, to alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens,
Executive Order 14225, Immediate Expansion of American Timber Production,
Executive Order 14154, Unleashing American Energy,
Executive Order 14153, Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential.

USDA ACTS TO REMOVE ROADLESS RULE RESTRICTIONS ON ALL NATIONAL FORESTS (Washington, D.C., Aug. 18, 2026) – Today, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the U.S. Forest Service has filed a proposed rule to rescind in its entirety the national 2001 Roadless Area Conversation Rule, a one-size-fits-all restriction that has frustrated land managers and served as a barrier to wildfire risk reduction work across large swaths of America’s national forest.  “Our forests can’t afford another decade of inaction.  Across the country, we’ve watched preventable conditions – overgrown stands, insect outbreaks and disease – turn healthy landscapes into tinderboxes,” said Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.  “For too long, outdated restrictions have kept tens of millions of forested acres off-limits to the very treatments that improve forest health and reduce wildfire risk to our communities.  Today, we filed a proposal to restore authority to local forest managers who know the land best, removing the barriers that have kept them from doing the work the land demands.  It’s time to turn the page on the failed roadless rule and return our forests to health and productivity.”

For 25 years, the 2001 Roadless Rule restricted road construction and limited the Forest Service’s ability to carry out critical active management work within inventoried roadless areas.  Today, that includes more than 44 million acres of the 193-million-acre National Forest System.  The rescission is intended to prioritize local agency decision-making over regulatory rules that are the same across the country, regardless of specific land management issues and needs.  “This proposed rule is commonsense policy sought since the first Trump administration.  In the years since, the need for it has only become more apparent,” said Deputy Secretary Stephen A. Vaden.  “It is a credit to President Trump that we can begin to put into place a rule that will allow us to properly manage our national forests, because the first step to managing forests is to have access to them.”

The agency will seek public comment on the proposal and on a draft of the environmental impact statement filed today in the Federal Register.  The rescission removes national designation of roadless areas but does not mandate timber cutting or road construction. The action removes regulatory burden and sends decisions about roadless areas to the local national forest managers.  “Active forest management is not an option.  It’s essential,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz.  “More than 40% of inventoried roadless areas, primarily in the West, have high or very high wildfire hazard potential.  And only 5% of those areas have received hazardous fuels reduction treatments since 2014.  At the same time, more than a quarter of these lands — 11.3 million acres— are already near existing roads.  Acting now, thoughtfully and decisively, is the best way to restore the balance, reduce wildfire risk, and secure the long-term health of our forests and neighboring communities.”

Send your comments in favor of rescinding the Roadless Rule to:
https://www.regulations.gov/docket/FS-2025-0001

California:
Ongoing Legal Battles by Dave McCracken, General Manager of the New 49ers

As many of you will be aware, we have been going head-to-head against California State over-regulation of small-scale gold mining for more than ten years.  These battles have taken place in Siskiyou County, Plumas, Alameda and San Bernardino Superior Courts, the Third and Forth Appellate Courts and even the Supreme Court of California.

Last year, we made a major breakthrough when the Third Appellate Court Ruled unanimously https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/opinion-9-23-14.pdf, that the State’s scheme of requiring gold miners to obtain a State permit, and then refusing to make such permits available, is an non-enforceable scheme which is preempted by federal law.  This Ruling is now being reviewed by the California Supreme Court https://goldgold.com/rinehart-decision-california-supreme-court.html.

We were given an even larger win by the San Bernardino Court this past summer when the Court issued a lengthy Ruling https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/113806-1-Ruling.pdf that the State does not have the authority to first pass a law that requires small-scale miners to obtain a State permit, and then pass a second law that forbids the issuance of such permits.

When we motioned San Bernardino Court to Order State agencies to begin issuing permits again; or in the alternative, stop harassing small-scale miners operating on the public lands without a permit, the judge refused to do so https://www.goldgold.com/wpcontent/uploads/2015/07/06232015-SUCTION-DREDGE.pdf.  

We are actively appealing this to the Forth Appellate Court https://goldgold.com/motion-for-summary-reversal.html.  Imagine a California court Ruling that State actions are unconstitutional, and then basically issuing a Ruling that continues to allow the unconstitutional activity.

Since we were not being provided meaningful relief from San Bernardino, early this past season, several brave individuals began suction dredging along the Klamath River in hopes of getting arrested by State law enforcement officials.  If the State arrest you, you have a right to be brought in front of an impartial judge within 48 hours, Sundays & holidays excluded.

The result was that several of our members were arrested.  Mining gear was seized from these guys and from others who were not arrested.  Even though Dyton Gilliland was arrested and held in jail, rather than being brought in front of a judge according to the law, he was eventually kicked out of jail with no further explanation.  Individual stories can be found in the Declarations below, and in the briefing documents.

Now the State has filed criminal charges against two of our small-scale miners in Siskiyou County.  The first hearing is scheduled for November 5 at 8:30 AM in the Siskiyou County courthouse in Yreka, California.  We hope you will pass the word around so we can flood the courthouse with Americans who want to see the insanity put to an end.

We see this as a hugely important case.  To a large extent, this case is very similar to the Rinehart case several years ago which won our industry a unanimous win in the Third Appellate court – the very same place this case will likely end up!  The difference here is that we have several additional important wins which have supported our side since Rinehart was decided.

The really important matter at stake here is whether or not State officials, who swear an oath to support and defend the constitution in order to become State officials in the first place, are going to be allowed by the judicial system to continue to enforce unconstitutional laws upon the people.  This case has ramifications far beyond small-scale gold miners.  It has more to do with whether or not we live in a totalitarian State where the people no longer have a civil remedy against the unlawful actions of the ruling class.

These ongoing legal challenges have raised another important question:  What is the use of devoting 10 years in the court system, and over a million dollar in legal fees, if State authorities are going to completely ignore the outcome if it does not support their side?

🔶 State’s Complaint – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/FAX-10-29-2015.pdf

🔶 Defendant’s Motion to Dismiss – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Notice-of-Motion-Motion-to-Dismiss-and-Suppress-Evidence-10-21-15.pdf

🔶 Defendant’s Memorandum of Points and Authorities – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Memorandum-Support-Motion-Dismiss-10-21-15.pdf

🔶 Declaration from Dyton Gilliland – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Dec-Gilliland-10-21-15.pdf

🔶 Declaration from Derick Eimer – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Dec-Eimer-10-20-15-Final.pdf

🔶 Declaration from Dave McCracken – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Dec-McCracken-10-21-15.pdf

🔶 State’s Answer on Gilliland – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Peoples-Opp-Motion-Suppress-Dismiss-Gilliland-10-29-15.pdf

🔶 Reply by Dyton Gilliland – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Reply-Gilliland-11-3-15.pdf

🔶 State’s Answer on Eimer – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Peoples-Opp-Motion-Suppress-Dismiss-Eimer-10-29-15.pdf

🔶 Reply by Derick Eimer – https://www.goldgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Reply-Eimer-11-3-15.pdf

Oregon
UPDATE ON DEQ 600 PERMIT-Jan Alexander, Eastern Oregon Mining Association
EOMA member Johnny West contacted David Feldman of DEQ and reiterated EOMA’s concerns about the draft permit.  DEQ replied that they were working on a permit that miners could view and comment on.  They had no date for the release of that draft permit.  DEQ did express an interest in making a site visit to a small scale mining operation.  If any miners would agree to facilitate DEQ personnel, please let me know.

We are still looking for content from other states.  Feel free to reach out if you have something important to share, especially if it involves mining or land rights!

CAMPFIRE WOOD NEEDED!  Our supply for the upcoming Fall Fest has run out.  That thoughtful and considerate donor will not be attending.  Please consider bringing some so we can have campfires Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights!

Our annual Fall Fest is scheduled for:
Thursday, October 8th through Sunday, October 11th
at the LDMA Duisenburg Camp in Southern California, off Highway 395.  
This is a joint venture with the Antelope Valley Gold Prospectors, a GPAA Chapter.

The cost is still $75, which includes a free PLP membership, camping, common dig pile (personal piles can be purchased for $50), and Saturday night dinner (must bring a potluck item).    Antelope Valley will provide breakfast and lunch on Saturday for $10 each.  There will also be a Spaghetti Feast on Friday night for $10.Classes will include Metal Detecting (Beginning & Advanced), the Importance of Classification, and Fine Gold Recovery, taught by Mr. Gold Cube himself, Mike Pung.  A tour of the Owl Café and Prospecting Store, plus the Rand Mining District, is planned for Friday morning.  The Metal Detecting Contest will be held on Saturday afternoon.

There will be daily Panning contests.  Every night provides fellowship by the campfire.  Miners Church will be Sunday morning.  Antelope Valley’s Raffle and Metal Detecting hunt will also be on Sunday.  PLP’s Grand Raffle will be Saturday night after dinner. We hope you can make it!

Watch the preview video here: 
https://youtu.be/yDyYOLyiqNs?is=qCZFBsoq0uDD71cp

ONLY THREE WEEKS LEFT TO PURCHASE TICKETS!

Thank you for standing with PLP and supporting the protection of our public lands.
Your support strengthens our mission – Thank you for being part of PLP

August 2026 Newsletter

A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Corporation

PLP exists to “Represent and assist outdoor user groups and individuals interested in keeping public and private lands open to prospecting, mining and outdoor recreation through education, scientific data and legal means.”

August 2026

Hello Friends!

We are still looking for content from other states.  Feel free to reach out if you have something important!

Federal
Trump announces $180 million to boost Mining Education (CBS News)
President Trump on Friday announced more than $180 million in grants to boost educational and trade programs for the mining industry, part of a bid to increase critical mineral production.

The Department of Energy is launching a $100 million grant program aimed at expanding the mining and critical mineral workforce by dramatically increasing the number of people with degrees in those areas over the next two years.  The program is expected to financially support scholarships and other programs, an official said.  Universities, community colleges, trade schools, industry groups and other partners will be eligible to apply.

The military is also offering more than $80 million in additional funding to three universities.  The Colorado School of Mines is expected to get $32.7 million for a tech development hub, the South Dakota School of Mines will get $25 million to set up workforce development programs, and Johns Hopkins University will get $23.6 million for a recycling-focused program.

The hub at the Colorado School of Mines will “test and scale new technologies for mineral processing, recovery, refining, recycling and advanced materials – and ultimately move those technologies into the domestic supply chain,” the school said in a statement.

During Friday’s event, Mr. Trump said the grants were aimed at reversing a longstanding decline in the number of U.S. mining students.  Fewer than 600 people were enrolled in mining engineering programs nationwide in 2023, down from just under $1,500 eight years earlier, according to data compiled by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration and the Society of Mining Professors, https://www.nationalacademies.org/read/27733/chapter/4.

“For years, mining schools and colleges that are essential to training the future leaders of this industry have been absolutely and sadly disappearing,” the president said.

The White House also announced a series of investments by the military in mining companies, battery manufacturers and other firms that work with critical minerals, more information in this link: https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/08/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-announces-billions-in-new-deals-and-investments-to-power-american-mining/?ftag=MSFd61514f.

The grants come as the Trump administration pushes to increase U.S. production of critical minerals like lithium, silicon, graphite and rare-earth elements.  Those materials are essential for making semiconductors, aerospace equipment and many other modern technologies, but China mines and refines an outsized share of the world’s critical minerals… https://www.cbsnews.com/news/china-dominates-rare-earths-american-company-hopes-to-challenge-60-minutes-transcript/?ftag=MSFd61514f.

Mr. Trump has also sought to boost the coal mining industry.  His administration pledged $700 million in grants (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-coal-industry-funding-boost/?ftag=MSFd61514f), to coal plants and a coal export terminal in June, and it has eased environmental regulations that restricted the coal industry as informed here: https://apnews.com/article/trump-coal-zeldin-mercury-epa-emissions-b770d6efd05f19ed24b179511c726196?ftag=MSFd61514f.

“Critical minerals are the raw materials of American strength that power everything from advanced weaponry to automobiles.  We want these essential products to be mined, refined and made right here in the USA,” Mr. Trump said.

President Trump announces $180 million to boost mining education, read the complete story here:  
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/trump-to-announce-180-million-to-boost-mining-education/ar-AA29B2Cl?ocid=BingNewsSerp

California:
Recent communications from Dave Mack of the New 49ers report that all is quiet in Siskiyou County. 

However, we received an email from one of our members who was cited in Yuba County, and his equipment was confiscated.  We interviewed him and found that he did not have a Notarized Partnership Agreement.  He was testing a modified dredge box and not performing Stream Reclamation. 

The Partnership Agreement is the foundation of our program.  It triggers subsection 8 of the California Fish and Wildlife Code, allowing someone to do so as a partner rather than an individual.  Most of 5653 is written for an individual.  His only option is to retain a Public Defender and request diversion.  

Oregon:
PROBLEMS WITH THE DRAFT DEQ 600 PERMIT by Jan Alexander – Eastern Oregon Mining Association

DEQ has completely forgotten their mission, which, according to their website, is to “protect and improve Oregon’s water quality.”  Their mission is not to administer mining, nor is it to stop small-scale mining in Oregon; however, that is exactly what this draft permit will do.  It’s sad because EOMA has been working to get this new general permit available to miners, many of whom have been waiting since 2017 to apply and obtain a permit that allows them to process ore using water.  There were 12 miners at the meeting DEQ held in Baker.  They and other EOMA members I have contacted agree that the entire draft permit is unworkable.  Our members all seem to agree; if DEQ put this document together to stop small-scale mining in Oregon, they have accomplished their goal.  

The draft permit is 23 pages, is confusing and disorganized, so it is nearly impossible to see what a miner is expected to do to comply.  Sections are repeated.  It is very difficult to readd and more difficult to understand.  But wading through, page by page, I was able to compile a list of the compliance parameters that would protect water quality.  Also, the requirement to submit pictures and drawings, and the ability to sign everything online.  But DEQ clearly forgot what their mission is. 

From the DEQ website, we see, “The Water Quality Program’s mission is to protect and improve Oregon’s water quality.”  It’s really very simple: control processed water in ponds, recycle it, and don’t discharge it.  The only important things are those pertaining to protecting water quality.  In addition, DEQ is proposing to administer mining.  How they thought they could do this is beyond me.  They are a WATER QUALITY agency.  The mining administration parts of permit must be deleted.  All miners’ operations that use mechanized equipment are already administered by either BLM or the Forest Service.  Some are administered by DOGAMI.  DEQ needs to take another look at the draft permit and ask itself:  Is this requirement under the authority of my agency, and how will it protect water quality?  If they had done that, this permit might just have been workable.  EOMA is preparing a response to the draft permit.  I have send my draft to the miners who were at the DEQ meeting, and others who are interested, and have had responses to my draft ranging from the fact that every miner would need to hire a secretary just to keep up with the paperwork, (which has to be recorded daily and submitted to DEQ quarterly and annually), to it would not be possible to comply and the only alternative is to quit mining or become a law breaker.  And the manner of submittal is through DEQ’s “YDO”, (Your DEQ Online).  This system is totally unworkable.  My husband Ken tried to find out what would happen if a miner submitted an application for a new permit, and he spent two days trying to get an application approved, working with the “help desk”, and trying whatever actions the consultant suggested, only to get an answer in the end saying, “your application is disapproved”.  At the meeting with DEQ, we asked that miners not have to try and use the YDO online portal.  The DEQ personnel at the meeting agreed that the portal was not easy to use but told us the Governor is requiring DEQ to make all miners submit all paperwork via the portal.  When you vote this time, see if we can get new leadership instead of Tina Kotec.  Perhaps with a new governor, this mandate to use the YDO portal will be dropped.

Geologist Services Available:
My name is Keaton Dinan.  I’m a younger contract geologist trying to build a name in small-scale hard-rock mining. 

I’m trying to move out of the corporate mineral exploration world and focus more on real small-mine, lode claim, historic mine, stockpile, and ore-dump project.  My interest is practical:  helping owners organize old assays, reports, maps, samples, and mine records into realistic next-step plans. 

I can help with assay/document review, sampling gaps, QA/QC planning, field inspection, claim/access context, lab/metallurgy routing, toll-mill readiness, and clear technical writing.  I’ve also been working on a documentation modernization pipeline for older mine projects and would like to help revive some projects that may have slipped through the cracks.

I’m not trying to sell a consulting package or anything.  I’m looking for projects where I can be useful, including field work, sweat equity, success-based compensation, or longer-term involvement where the fit is right.  I don’t mind getting dirty or helping with practical mine-site work.

Is there a good way to share a short notice with PLP members or connect with small mine owners who my need this kind of help?

Thanks, 
Keaton Dinan
KeatonDinan@gmail.com
(850) 387-6407

A Note to Facebook Users, Influencers, and YouTube Channels:
New miners are constantly searching for information, including legalities, regulations, and permits. 

Social Media and video channels are their main sources.  One thing I see is people showing equipment working that may not be legal in all states.  Even if the Group is for Oregon or Northern California, people from anywhere can post so long as they are a member.

A simple disclaimer could reduce confusion by prompting viewers to read and study their state’s regs.  If you are unfamiliar with them, don’t be upset with someone who replies that it’s not legal.  They are simply trying to help keep you out of trouble.
 

The Comstock Gold Prospectors invite you to
Downieville Gold Rush Days 2026

Showcase Your Brand at Downieville Gold Rush Days!
Gold panning, local history, and great company,
it’s almost time for Downieville Gold Rush Days! ⚒️🌲
 

We are getting everything ready for September 18th-20th, and we’d love to have you join us.  We are staying true to our roots this year while slowly growing to include our friends in Sierra City and at the Kentucky Mine.

We still have a few booth spaces available, and we are especially looking to fill our ranks with:

  • Gold Mining & Heritage:  Prospecting gear, mineral displays, and historical enthusiasts.
  • Artisans & Mercantile:  Leatherwork, blacksmithing, woodcraft, and apothecary.
  • Western Wear:  Period-style hats, boots, and clothing.
  • The Grub:  Dutch oven cooking, hearty stews, and old-fashioned treats.
It’s all about keeping our Sierra County traditions alive.  If you’d like to set up a booth and be part of the weekend, we’d love to hear from you.

📥 TO APPLY:  Just send Comstock Gold Prospectors a DM with your email address, and they will send the vendor’s information right over to you!

#GoldMining, #Downieville, #GoldRushDays, #SierraCounty, #SupportLocal, #DiscoverDownieville, #GoldRushHistory, #SierraCity, #KentuckyMine.

Our annual Fall Fest is scheduled for:
Thursday, October 8th through Sunday, October 11th
at the LDMA Duisenburg Camp in Southern California, off Highway 395.  
This is a joint venture with the Antelope Valley Gold Prospectors, a GPAA Chapter.
The cost is still $75, which includes a free PLP membership, camping, common dig pile (personal piles can be purchased for $50), and Saturday night dinner (must bring a potluck item).    Antelope Valley will provide breakfast and lunch on Saturday for $10 each.  There will also be a Spaghetti Feast on Friday night for $10.

Classes will include Metal Detecting (Beginning & Advanced), the Importance of Classification, and Fine Gold Recovery, taught by Mr. Gold Cube himself, Mike Pung.  A tour of the Owl Café and Prospecting Store, plus the Rand Mining District, is planned for Friday morning.  The Metal Detecting Contest will be held on Saturday afternoon.

There will be daily Panning contests.  Every night provides fellowship by the campfire.  Miners Church will be Sunday morning.  Antelope Valley’s Raffle and Metal Detecting hunt will also be on Sunday.  PLP’s Grand Raffle will be Saturday night after dinner. We hope you can make it!
 

ONLY SIX WEEKS LEFT TO PURCHASE TICKETS!

Thank you for standing with PLP and supporting the protection of our public lands.
Your support strengthens our mission – Thank you for being part of PLP

April 2026 Newsletter

Hello Friends! 

Public Lands for the People has a new mailing address: P. O. Box 39202 Downey, CA 90239-0202 

Please be patient with us as we reorganize. Patty Acevedo is taking over as membership chairman, so our 2-week turnaround for memberships and renewals, along with answering calls/emails during this transition, will take a few  weeks to catch up.

The PLP board of directors wants to take this moment to thank every volunteer and member who is part of our story. Your support and engagement means the world to us!  We want to extend our deepest appreciation for your trust and partnership throughout the years.
Two of our long-time working members are retiring: Clark Pearson and Walt Wegner 

 
Clark Pearson

 

 

Clark Pearson, PLP’s senior legal research consultant and membership chairman, has retired. He has dedicated thousands of hours to research, taken countless calls and emails, answered mining questions, and coached scores of small-scale miners using his knowledge and experience. When going to court with many miners to assist them in their cases, he would draw on his knowledge of Federal and State case law, often using his research and development strategy to shift the burden of proof to the government. Clark has a personal library of mining and mining law books and is skilled at using legal law libraries. He worked for the betterment of all small scale miners across the country, even going as far as lobbying in Washington, DC.  

Having lived in Northern California most of his life, he knew many local professional miners, biologists,  geologists, forestry and agency officers, sheriffs, and judges. Clark traveled to Washington, D.C. many times for PLP to submit proposed legislation to benefit small-scale miners. Over the years, he worked with think tanks, public policy researchers, agency and government officials to provide educational materials that guide improvements to  existing regulations.  He also tracked the think-tank news for anything related to mining law with the EPA, the Army Corps, the DOI (BLM), the USDA (Forest Service), and MSHA. In his last trip to D.C., he met with 65 legislative directors in a week. You can read some of PLP’s accomplishments that Clark supported on our website:
//www.https://www.publiclandsforthepeople.org/accomplishments

Clark spearheaded PLP’s Reclamation Dredging Guide Cards and Ron Kliewer designed the Partnership Agreement which have protected reclamation dredgers over the last 5 years through this legal path. Sending a big, heartfelt thank-you to Clark and wishing him the very best!

While it may seem impossible to replace Clark, PLP is seeking other Legal Research Specialists to continue providing its members with the best protection available.

 
 

Walt Wegner, who has served in every position: president, vice president, secretary treasurer, and membership chairman. He has been with PLP from very near the beginning, facilitating for years at the GPAA gold shows and the Quartzite gold shows, speaking, and fundraising. He has worked at all the PLP events, and his awesome BBQ meals at our Fall Fests were a big hit! Walt’s wife, Myrl, has also done so much to keep PLP going as well, such as clerical, potluck  and sending out the newsletters.

PLP wish you both the very best and many thanks!  

 

There are many other valuable volunteers who have poured their hearts and time into making PLP great, and we sincerely thank Walt Wegner as the king of volunteers!

New Vice-President: Last year the board elected Walt Evens of Oregon as VP. He has been a long-time PLP member who even stood up to some cases in Oregon, such as Bohmker et al. vs. State of Oregon. He is often the face of PLP at the Oregon clubs, and shows. Walt knows a great deal about mining and its regulations and is available  to address mining issues specifically in Oregon. Over the years, he has been very involved with the GPAA clubs in Southern  California, Oregon, and Washington, often contributing to the Gold Prospector Magazine. He continues to be a great asset to PLP. Thank you, Walt Evens!

New Regulations Update: Mining is the most heavily regulated business in the United States. Clark saw these new changes coming and has been warning about them.

All PLP presidents including Jerry Hobbs, Dee Stapp, Walt Wegner and Ron Kliewer have always emphasized that there has never been a provision in the mining laws for “recreational mining.” Extra-curricular activities are not incident to mining under the Mining Law as we found out recently when Ron Kliewer appealed BLM’s ruling ‘requiring a recreation permit’ for Fallfest on his mining claim (with Clark’s expert guidance). This is because the agencies consider the group activities at the claims to be purposes other than, and not incident to, mining. Clubs will need to go to their claims to mine during the day and camp in nearby designated campgrounds for activities such as raffles and potlucks, rather than dispersed camping on their claims. Clubs will need to perhaps become “for-profit” private mining groups. And need pre-emption permits for their claims, such as a Plan of Operation permit, an NOI, and, for stream claims, a stream alteration permit (California), each of which is location-specific. Also, read the table of authorities in the regulations.

As a claim owner and miner, it is essential that you get familiar with mining law, regulations, and rules of procedure.  All PLP members have been given Challenge Cards to guide you with links, so be brave and follow through.

If you have not yet received your updated 2026 Reclamation Guide Cards, please request them. But due to the new proposed USFS regulations, they may only be valid for a few more months before becoming obsolete, unless your  claim is on BLM managed lands.

Regarding the road closures, you have the right to access your mining claim; it must remain open and free, per the  General Mining Law of 1872. Be ready to inform the officer if confronted, he/she may not know mining laws. Please be polite. If your road is closed and destroyed by BLM without giving any claim owners notice in violation of the Mining Law, like what happened in the U.S. v. Lex case, and U.S. v. Hicks (mining claimant is a landowner), use the PLP Orange Challenge Card procedure for filing. PLP has said from the beginning that if you don’t know and exercise your rights, you don’t have them. As a small-scale mining claim owner, you must learn and exercise your rights.

There are many informative links on the PLP website for you to read and get familiar with. Download and print them, such as mining laws https://www.publiclandsforthepeople.org/mining-laws/
legal documents https://www.publiclandsforthepeople.org/mining-documents/
a mining reference library under documents, mining & reclamation documents, and many case law precedence arguments for a public defender to use in court.

Your PLP Board of Directors 
The original. No compromise.
Standing 36 years strong for Multiple Use on Public Land “RIGHTS”!

 

2026 Raffle Tickets are now available! Supporting PLP’s Grand Raffle also helps us continue to fight for your rights. A book of 12 tickets is STILL only $10! We have a lot of great high value prizes. You can’t win if you don’t enter! The growing list of the prizes for the 2026 Grand Raffle is published on our PLP Facebook site. You can call our toll-free number (844)-PLP-1990 which is (844) 757-1990 or Mail a Check P. O. Box 39202, Downey, CA 90239-0202 and specify the number of ticket books you wish to have mailed to you. The drawing date and location is October 10th at the 2026 PLP Fallfest event.

Newsletter March 2026

How to Defeat the Road Closures in the Mojave

Hello Friends!

Public Lands for the People (PLP) recently learned that the Mojave road closure plan, WEMO, which affects 2,200

miles of unpaved roads, was challenged in court by the Center for Biological Diversity 5 years ago. We’ve known

for years that they won’t stop until everything is closed, and we must not give up on this fight to get to our claims.

Miners already have a statutory right of access, and the government cannot unreasonably alter that, because it

violates the federal mining law.

In dealing with the road closures by this court judgement in the desert, the government failed to raise those that

have statutory right of access to the mining claims.

In an example of how this type of sweetheart lawsuit was defeated in the past by PLP was the use of the Ron Lex

case. The sweetheart Siskiyou Regional Environmental Project v. USDA said that the Forest should require an

approved PO in order miners to operate in a riparian zone. Overturning this lawsuit did not involve an expensive

civil suit, nor was it overturned by crying tyranny with petition drives. The sweetheart lawsuit Siskiyou Regional

Environmental Project, was simply overturned by a misdemeanor citation of a miner. The Forest Service, which

pushed the plan of operation in waterways with endangered species was not consistent with existing regulations, is

not unlike the desert tortoise situation.

Ronald Lex took a ticket and lost in lower court. On appeal he contacted PLP where Clark Pearson contacted the

public defender’s office and told them Lex was not a special use permittee and the existing regulations do not

require a PO and explained the 36 CFR 228.4 Forest Service mineral regulations. Ultimately, Lex exerted his rights

to use his claim, and his case in the appellant court reversed the lower court decision that was inconsistent with the

228 mineral regulations and the mining law. Most importantly it reversed the application of the sweetheart Siskiyou

regional environmental project case. So PLP sees a path just like the lesson of Lex to reverse the road closures in

the desert that are not consistent with existing BLM mineral regulations and the mining law.

If your road is closed and destroyed by BLM without giving any claim owners notice in violation of the Mining

Law, then you may need to take a ticket like what happened in the Lex case, or you can use the PLP orange

challenge card procedure for filing an actual claim for damages with the BLM.

You can find the Lex case on PLP’s list of accomplishments on our website.

PLP supported miner Ronald Lex on appeal from his conviction in federal court. PLP provided the winning

legal arguments to his attorney that led to the limitations of the Forest Service regarding mine occupancy and the

trigger on when a NOI or PO was required. U.S. v. Lex (miner not a special use permittee). A watershed case that

led to the Forest Service attempting to overturn the decision by promulgating new regulations that failed to have a

real legal effect. The decision still stands that a miner is not a special use permittee within the total discretionary

control of the Forest Service.

Oregon News from Walt Evens – Close Call for Oregon Member

Last summer, one of our members was performing Stream Reclamation per PLP’s Guide card, with one exception:

he was working in a public area owned by the Oregon Department of Transportation. This popular spot is regularly

visited by Gold Prospectors from around the state and beyond.

The neighbors turned him in, and he was visited by Oregon State Police, the agency tasked with enforcing the

dredge ban. The member showed his paperwork. The officer was not familiar with Reclamation Dredging. The

final decision was that he was asked to leave and to never return with his dredge. He got off with just a warning!

Please revisit the Guide Card. “Respect Private Property and dredge only where one has permission, private

ownership, or unpatented mining claim.” No Public Areas!

Proposed updates to USFS Regulations:

The Forest Service is requesting comments from the public regarding the need to clarify or to otherwise enhance its

regulations that minimize adverse environmental impacts on National Forest System surface resources in connection

with operations authorized by the United States mining laws. These rules and procedures, govern prospecting,

exploration, development, mining, and processing operations conducted on National Forest System lands authorized

by the Mining Law of 1872, as amended, subsequent reclamation of the land, and any necessary long-term post-

closure resource management. The goals of the regulatory revision is to expedite Forest Service review of certain

proposed mineral operations authorized by the United States mining laws, and, where applicable, Forest Service

approval of some of these proposals.

Here’s the link:

Regulations.gov

To read the proposed rule changes, click on the blue “Locatable Minerals” link.

To make your public comment, click on the “Comment” button.

The deadline is April 21. 2026!

One critical change is the requirement for a Plan of Operation for Dredging, which is still legal in most states. Another

is having a special use permit for claims that will involve more than 10 people (Club Outings).

 

Attention PLP Members

PLP is making changes to its Legal and Membership departments. Please be

patient through this important transition.

 

When calling the number on the website your voicemail is forwarded to

the info@publiclandsforthepeople.org email, and you will get a call back.

 

!! Stay tuned as the ICMJ Prospectors and Mining Journal returns !!

 

Downieville Gold Rush Days 2026

Dust off your boots and grab your pans!

Downieville Gold Rush Days is back and bigger than ever in 2026! We are officially counting down the days for 2

days of wild west history and family fun from September 18th

-20th. This year the celebration stretches across the

canyon to include Sierra City’s historic Kentucky Mine.

Action packed entertainment, Wild West shows and live music. Gold panning, Historic tours, and gold mining

vendors.

Kids games, craft vendors, and delicious local food. A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor, Comstock Gold

Prospectors- Reno NV, for helping us keep this heritage of Sierra County alive.Showcase Your Brand at Downieville Gold Rush Days

Gold panning, local history, and great company, it’s almost time for Downieville Gold Rush Days!

We are getting everything ready for September 18th–20th, and we’d love to have you join us. We are

staying true to our roots this year while slowly growing to include our friends in Sierra City and at the

Kentucky Mine.

We still have a few booth spaces available and we are especially looking to fill our ranks with:

Gold Mining & Heritage: Prospecting gear, mineral displays, and historical enthusiasts.

Artisans & Mercantile: Leatherwork, blacksmithing, woodcraft, and apothecary.

Western Wear: Period-style hats, boots, and clothing.

The Grub: Dutch oven cooking, hearty stews, and old-fashioned treats.

It’s all about keeping our Sierra County traditions alive. If you’d like to set up a booth and be part of the

weekend, we’d love to hear from you.

TO APPLY: Just contact us with your email address and we’ll send the vendor information right over to

you!

Contact Discover Downieville: 530.289.1000

Carriage House Inn: 530.289.3573

info@discoverdownieville.com

gary@downieville.us

 

If you like the work PLP does, please help PLP help you, and join or renew today to know how to effectively and

professionally counter the agencies while making Prospecting, Mining and Reclamation Great Again!

Your PLP Board of Directors

The original. No compromise. Standing 36 years strong for Multiple Use on Public Land “RIGHTS”!

Jan/Feb 2026 Newsletter

 

PLP Has Cool New Shirts!  Get them at Quartzsite!
The show everyone’s been waiting for!!
PLP will be at the Quartzsite Gold Show with new shirts!
WHEN:  Friday February 13th, Saturday the 14th and Sunday the 15th 2026  https://quartzsitegoldshow.com/

Once again, we’ll have metal detecting hunts Friday and Saturday, XRF instant assays, gold bags, PLP T-Shirts, Memberships and more! Renew or sign up at the show and get bonus Grand Raffle tickets and pick up your T-shirt right there. We’ll be answering mining rights questions, talking about PLP’s accomplishments in the last few years and other controversial topics. Come say hello and learn more about things like how successful Reclamation Dredging has been the last 5 years. We’ll also have 2026 Grand Raffle tickets on hand. Prizes include thousands of dollars worth of gold, silver, a mining claim, Garrett gold detector, Riverdance Jig, Alaska trip at Skookum Gold Camp, Gold Cube and so much more!

QUICK NOTES:

Well, the lockup of 624,000 acres creating the Chuckwalla National Monument is not going unchallenged. PLP President Ron Kliewer recently joined several other key people in the fight to keep public lands open to multiple use in a meeting to brainstorm strategies and meet with the miner and their attorney who is challenging this fake monument in court. Godspeed my friend!

Once again the move is afoot to annex 17,000 acres of the mineral rich Eagle Mountains into Joshua Tree National Park (JTNP). The area was left out of any new land designations last year, but Congressman Alex Padilla has a bee in his bonnet to close this area besides the already massive closures such as the Chuckwalla, Sand to Snow and other recently formed national monuments by the stroke of out-of-control presidential pens. The area is home to the nearby historic Kaiser steel mine and some mining claims, both patented and unpatented. The only access is on a very primitive 4×4 dirt road. There isn’t much human activity there now except a few miners working their claims, and many are Veterans using the activity as therapy for PTSD. The bighorn sheep are thriving. They hang out near the miners without a care in the world. If you want to prospect a little-known area, get out there and file your claims now before the National Park takes any more steps to annex this area into the JTNP.

This week we learned that the Mojave road closure plan finally cleared the court system after 5 years. This affects 2,200 miles of unpaved roads. We’ve known for years that they won’t stop the land and road closures until everything is closed, PERIOD. We must not give up the fight! PLP’s legal team is reviewing the documents to inform PLP members of the best way to proceed. View the court order here: Federal Court Orders OHV Route Closures in Mojave Desert – Friends Of Jawbone  Get involved or you will lose your rights!

Ron Kliewer
President
www.PublicLandsforthePeople.org
Mission Statement: Dedicated to Preserving the Rights of the Public to the Access and Use of Public Land

Come see us at the Quartzite Gold Show Feb. 13th, 14th and 15th 2026    https://quartzsitegoldshow.com/

P.S. 2026 Raffle Tickets are now available! Supporting PLP’s Grand Raffle also helps us continue to fight for your rights.  A book of 12 tickets is STILL only $10! We have a lot of great high value prizes.  You can’t win if you don’t enter! Tickets will be available in January to purchase by phone for the 2026 Grand Raffle Drawing. The growing list of the prizes for the 2026 Grand Raffle is published on our PLP Facebook site.  You can call our toll-free number (844)-PLP-1990 which is (844) 757-1990 or Mail a Check (to the address below) and specify the number of ticket books you wish to have mailed to you.  The drawing date and location is October 10th at the 2026 PLP Fallfest event.

PLP…The original. No compromise.  Standing 36 years strong for Multiple Use on Public Land “RIGHTS”!

PLP Year-End Newsletter 2025

 

Public Lands for the People – Keeping the Dream Alive!

Dear Friends, Members, and Fellow Prospectors,

As 2025 draws to a close, we want to start with a heartfelt THANK YOU. None of what we accomplished this year would have been possible without your unwavering support, membership, donations, and the countless hours so many of you put in on the ground. You are the backbone of PLP, and we are deeply grateful.

2025 – A Year of Action and Victories

We were busy representing you at every opportunity:

  • Quartzsite Gold Show – Our booth was packed full for 3 days as we signed up new members, sold raffle tickets and spread the word about Reclamation Dredging, gold mining rights, mineral access on public lands etc. The coin hunt was a big hit again! Quartzite 2026 is coming the second weekend of February (Fri.Sat.Sun.) You don’t want to miss this one! This is one of the BEST GOLD SHOWS in the country!
  • Gumboot Blast in Angels Camp – a thrilling day of gold mining, hard rock mining demonstrations, and camaraderie!
  • Fighting the creation of the Chuckwalla National Monument…Which is still ongoing
  • Fallfest at Duisenberg CA- Lots of classes, food, raffle prizes, finding gold, coins and amazing entertainment around the campfire…great fellowship with friends old and new!
  • Clark Pearson – Our legal reseacher, took another trip to Washington DC to fight for mining legislation for regulatory relief in Congress! Thank you, Clark, we couldn’t do it without you!

Major Legal Wins on Reclamation Dredging

This year PLP stepped up big when several of our members faced aggressive enforcement actions over reclamation dredging standards. With your support, we provided expert testimony, technical reports, and legal coordination that helped secure clear victories in court. These wins not only protected the individuals involved but set important precedents that benefit every small miner and prospector in the state.

The Best Grand Raffle Yet – And an Even Bigger One Coming!

Our 2025 Grand Raffle was the most successful in PLP history – thank you to everyone who bought tickets and to the generous donors who made it spectacular.

And we’re already gearing up for the 2026 Grand Raffle, which promises to be bigger and better. A huge shout-out to one very special donor who just contributed an absolutely stunning high-grade crystalline specimen gold that will be one of the centerpiece prizes. (Photo below – prepare to drool!)

 

Gold, silver, detectors, mining equipment, a week at Skookum Camp Alaska, Roaring Camp trip and MUCH MORE! Raffle Tickets for the 2026 raffle will go on sale in January.

Looking Ahead:

In January we are issuing NEW, very improved California Reclamation Dredging cards!

Your membership and contributions are the backbone of our cause!  Without generous and committed members, PLP would be unable to continue to have the reach and influence that we do.  Our ability to take legal action and stand up for your rights is directly related to your contributions. With your continued support, PLP will be right there in the trenches – in the field, in the courts, and in the halls of government – defending your rights in 2026 and beyond.

Thank you in advance for including PLP in your year-end giving and your estate planning.

From all of us at Public Lands for the People – thank you again for an incredible year. Wishing you heavy pans, and rich pockets in the New Year!

See you on the waterways and in the tunnels, The PLP Board!

P.S. Renew your membership or join today www.publiclandsforthepeople.org  – every dollar goes straight to the fight!

 

Newsletter November 2025

Reclamation Suction Dredging Change in 2026?

Hello Friends!

Public Lands for the People (PLP) wants to give a heads up to its members of the very real possibility that the California State laws surrounding dredging will be changing in 2026.  Right now, as of this writing PLP has heard several rumors that the State may repeal Fish & Game code 5653.8 if some miners continue misusing it for mining purposes.  As you may recall the Clements case was voluntarily dismissed earlier this year in April by the Siskiyou District Attorney and the Superior court Judge after Clements provided his partnership agreement for reclamation purposes and Fish & Game code 5653.8.  Clements was then recharged for the same violation a couple months later.  While PLP believes that he will prevail once again, we have some reservations about his new legal approach with an unnamed mining club.  Clements has finally filed a motion to dismiss using Fish & Game code 5653.8 along with his partnership agreement, but now the moving legal papers sets forth that it was for mining purposes – which is exactly what PLP warns its members not to do.  Doing so will motivate the State to repeal Fish & Game code 5653.8.  We fear that even if Clements wins, the State will then repeal Fish & Game code 5653.8.  So far, the CA Fish & Wildlife has not posted a proposed rulemaking change to 5653.8 on their website.  In order to better protect our PLP members going forward starting January, PLP may discontinue issuing the existing suction dredge guide cards for California or Oregon members.  PLP is working on a new and better legal pathway that will roll out in the summer of 2026 that will not be so subject to the whims of State agencies and should work for CA, OR, WA, and ID if they continue to regulate in a prohibitive manner.

 

PLP has seen a couple articles recently that purport to be able to explain PLP’s reclamation dredging guidelines.  Unfortunately, both articles were written without even reaching out to PLP but instead switched to the CA Fish & Wildlife narrative that all dredging has been banned in the state of CA – which is patently false.

If both reporters had reached out to PLP or simply typed into AI on the subject of PLP dredge guide they would have found a rather good overview of the subject.  Here is what AI says on PLP’s dredge guide:

 

“PLP suction dredge reclamation” refers to the advocacy and guidance provided by the organization Public Lands For The People (PLP) for responsible, legal gold mining using suction dredges, with a focus on incorporating reclamation (land improvement) as a recognized part of the mining process and federal law. PLP promotes a specific guide for using suction dredges in a way that is less harmful to the environment, aiming to demonstrate that such activities can be done legally and without “cut[ting] corners” in reclamation.

What is PLP?

  • Public Lands For The People (PLP): is an organization that advocates for miners’ rights and promotes the legal and responsible use of mining equipment.
  • PLP believes in integrating reclamation (improving the land after mining) as an essential component of mining, aligning with the U.S. Mineral Policy Act of 1970.
  • They have developed and distributed a CA Suction Dredge Guide that provides guidance to members on how to legally and responsibly operate suction dredges in California.

Why “Reclamation”?

  • Legality and Policy:

The U.S. Mineral Policy Act of 1970 promotes both mining and reclamation industries, stating that reclamation is an “improvement of labor to the land” and qualifies as assessment work under the 1872 Mining Law.

  • Responsible Mining:

PLP stresses that responsible mining includes reclamation and discourages shortcuts that lead to citations and penalties.

Current Legal Status in California

  • Prohibition:

Suction dredging is unlawful in California’s rivers, streams, and lakes under state law, enacted in 2016.

  • Federal vs. State Jurisdiction:

PLP has been working to establish federal preemption over dredging on federal lands, arguing that state laws, such as California’s, create a de facto ban and conflict with federal mining laws.

  • Legal Challenges:

PLP has won federal preemption lawsuits, and its members are attempting to pursue legal avenues to resume suction dredge mining through the framework of reclamation.

The “PLP Suction Dredge Reclamation” Concept

  • Demonstrating Legal Use:

PLP aims to demonstrate to the public and government agencies how to use suction dredges responsibly for the specific purpose of reclamation, which could involve using dredged material for erosion control or land restoration.

  • Member Support:

The organization supports its members, who are attempting to legally resume suction dredging by emphasizing the importance of following the PLP guide and adhering to reclamation practices to avoid penalties.

  • Focus on the Future:

PLP continues to work in Washington, D.C., to pass legislation that would codify the Trump administration’s agenda for streamlining mining regulations and provide a more permanent solution for the mining community.

  • Legally dredging in California waterways through reclamation

May 13, 2025 — success of PLP’s guide cards, and it is not a reason to cut corners and just suction dredge mine and not do the reclamation.

Dive deeper in AI Mode

Public Lands for the People (PLP) uses the term “reclamation” to advocate for a form of suction dredging they claim legally removes pollutants like mercury and debris from waterways without requiring a state permit. This reclamation dredging is a contentious legal strategy aimed at allowing suction dredging, which is otherwise prohibited in California.

How PLP defines “reclamation”

  • Removal of pollutants: PLP’s definition of reclamation is the removal of materials lost during older, less efficient mining practices, including mercury, lead weights, and other debris. They contend that by cleaning the environment, their dredging efforts do not fall under the typical regulations for mining activities.
  • Compliance with federal law: PLP argues their reclamation dredging is in compliance with the Clean Water Act (CWA) and does not constitute a discharge of pollutants that requires a permit from California agencies.

The legal strategy

The PLP’s approach is designed to navigate California’s strict laws that ban motorized suction dredging. The legal basis for their strategy includes:

  • Contesting state authority: By framing suction dredging as reclamation, PLP challenges California’s ability to regulate or prohibit the activity on federal lands.
  • Focusing on federal regulations: PLP has pursued federal preemption, arguing that federal regulations should supersede state laws that are prohibitive to small-scale mining.
  • Achieving legal victories: PLP publicizes legal victories for its members. For instance, in April 2025, a PLP member won a case involving a citation for reclamation suction dredging, which PLP presented as a successful test of its strategy.

The controversy

Despite PLP’s legal wins and claims of environmental cleanup, the practice of suction dredge reclamation remains controversial.

  • Opposing viewpoints: Environmental groups, such as the Sierra Fund, have argued that suction dredging can release toxins like mercury that settle on the riverbed, posing a threat to both wildlife and humans.
  • State opposition: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has maintained a statewide prohibition on suction dredging and does not authorize permits for the activity.
  • Misuse of guidance: PLP warns its members that those who misuse its reclamation dredging guide could still face citations and have their equipment confiscated, especially if their actions are perceived as mining rather than reclamation.

 

 

 

 

PLP helps member get their dredge back here is his story

During my 2025 river reclamation dredging season, I had my dredge confiscated by the USFS. I did not know at the time that the USFS had absconded with it until the local Dept. of Fish and Game warden called me to tell me it was USFS who took it. The DFG warden did not want to talk about the “case”, but I did manage to tell him that I was in a reclamation partnership (using the PLP guide) and that I was removing garbage from the river and not “mining” for gold or other minerals. When I was speaking with the DFG warden, I maintained a calm and reasonable tone and we had a nice chat. I let him know of the Siskiyou County precedent where a dredger was cited for violating CDF code 5653 and the fact it was dismissed as the dredger was complying with 5653.8.

After speaking to the DFG warden, I called the USFS office in the Northern California county I was working in and tried to get an answer as to why and under what authority did the USFS take my equipment from a 22-year-old mining claim and a 20-year-old Notice of Intent I had filed with USFS? The minerals officer told me that the LEO took it thinking it was abandoned—despite my name on the mining claim sign near where the dredge was located! I said it was not abandoned, and I was cleaning up the river with the dredge. Also, the dredge had a large sign on the pontoon that said RECLAMATION IN PROGRESS. The minerals officer had heard of reclamation dredging but was never contacted by the LEO before the dredge was taken. I had to call and text the minerals officer and various other USFS personnel to try to get this dredge back as the LEO had no legal authority to remove it from my mining claim. This process took a month and even though the USFS District ranger from another area said that there was a meeting and it was agreed that my dredge would be returned to me, the LEO would not return my phone calls. It took me flagging down a USFS truck on the street to get him to call the LEO who took it. I was escorted to the holding yard where this LEO was waiting. We had a 30-minute chat about what I was doing and what happened, and he let me pick up the dredge. During this conversation, I was calm and respectful to the USFS personnel. Our chat was very professional in tone. So, I took the dredge and promptly dropped back on my claim and finished the reclamation season.

Throughout this ordeal, I was in contact with PLP Northern Director Clark Pearson and his advice was very helpful in navigating the quagmire I was in. I notified Clark after every conversation with the USFS and the DFG warden. I tried my best to follow his advice and listen to his direction on how to deal with these government entities. The main takeaway from Clark was that we need to be respectful and calm when talking with the USFS and DFG people.

The other idea Clark imparted to me was that if we do not know our rights, we will lose them. Throughout this situation, I became aware of the USFS regulations and was very comfortable telling the USFS personnel about their own regulations that they failed to follow.

 

If you like the work PLP does, please help PLP help you, and join or renew today to know how to effectively and professionally counter the agencies while making Prospecting, Mining and Reclamation Great Again!

 

 

 

Your PLP Board of Directors

 

The original. No compromise.  Standing 35 years strong for Multiple Use on Public Land “RIGHTS”!

 

 

Oct 2025 Newsletter Grand Raffle Winners

Oct 2025 PLP’s 35th Anniversary Fallfest Celebration at LDMA Duisenburg

Hello Friends!

For PLP’s 35th Anniversary, we held Fallfest at LDMA Duisenburg.  Everyone had a great time and it was a huge success!  Lots of fun and activities.  Having it at the LDMA Duisenburg property made it especially great, with the easy access, use of their clubhouse, great camp host, etc.  Antelope Valley Prospectors joined with us, providing many activities including another detector hunt and fundraising meals. Also, San Diego Treasure Seekers club opened their South Freedom Claim down the road for folks to prospect. A big shout out “Thank You” to Antelope Valley Prospectors and San Diego Treasure Seekers!!  We had a better outing because of your participation!

The festivities began Thursday with registration (sadly without Judy Lepper who couldn’t make it, but blessed to have Linda Starr step in!) and sign-up sheets for the various activities:  PLP detector hunt, Peggy’s tasty Spaghetti Dinner for Friday night, selling tickets for the Grand Raffle, gold bags, T-Shirts, etc.  We also had Antelope Valley Prospectors sign-up sheets for breakfast and lunch Saturday and Sunday, their raffle and detector hunt. Marcia Betts was ill, so we had to cancel Ladies Crafts.  Roger Plata taught his Fine Gold Recovery class in the clubhouse.  Folks already started digging their paydirt piles, and began metal detecting. Fiddling Farley performed at the campfire Thursday night for an hour and a half, which is always a special treat!

Friday we had beautiful weather for digging gold, and more folks showed up. A crowd went to the Owl Café and Museum in Red Mountain for the Randsburg Mining District tour. Jerry Marquez’s Metal Detector Class was a hit, especially with his new book on metal detecting! Jeff Runnells small scale hard rock class had to cancel because they broke down on the way and had to get towed back home. Peggy Schlichter the LDMA camp caretaker made her yummy spaghetti dinner and then everyone gathered around the campfire for Brad the Juggler’s amazing performance, juggling knives, fire and light-up bowling pins!

Saturday was a full day, starting with the Antelope Valley Prospectors huge fundraiser breakfast. Folks continued at the common dig even though the wind picked up, but not enough to stop any activities, although a big gust took off the top of the registration canopy. Then Miner Ma Gold had her very informative presentation in the clubhouse called “Gold and Beginning Prospecting for Ladies and how to use Lidar Program”. It was a treat to have her this year!  Antelope Valley Prospectors prepared a great taco fundraiser lunch! After lunch was the Gold Panning Contest run by volunteers Greg Herring and Diana Drake. Thank you! Following the Panning Contest, where Roger Plata extended his winning streak to 2 years, the PLP Metal Detector Hunt got underway. There were tokens for nuggets and other prizes, as well as tons of buffalo nickels, Indian head pennies, silver coins, wheat cents, 60 copper rounds etc.  Saturday evening kicked off with the outstanding BBQ and Potluck Dinner that everyone enjoyed and got very full. Afterwards was the PLP Grand Raffle Drawing with really fantastic prizes. Fiddling Farley performed in the clubhouse that evening along with a surprise banjo player – Anthony!  A very full and wonderful day!

Sunday morning started off with an informal Miner’s church gathering after the Antelope Valley Prospectors huge breakfast in the clubhouse. Antelope Valley then had their detector hunt and club raffle.  A big shout out to President of Antelope Valley Prospectors President Kim Holmes and all of their volunteers! Also thank you to Peggy Schlichter, the LDMA caretaker, for the many back hoe buckets of dirt she scooped and put at the dig area, her spaghetti dinner and so much more. Another shout out to Walt Wegner for the delicious BBQ tri tip, pulled pork, sausage, chicken, and for keeping our campfire going each night. A very big thank you to all of the volunteers in the kitchen, at Registration, the field activities, campfire, road work, trash patrol, you all made this Fallfest the best yet!  We couldn’t do it at all without many people volunteering to help!  The friendships that have grown here each year make it all worth the while!

Grand Raffle Winners:
Gold Quartz Specimen donated by Meeting of the Mines/Goldstrike Corp – Willamette Valley Pros.
Gold Quartz Specimen donated by Meeting of the Mines/Goldstrike Corp – Tim Trask
Gold Quartz Specimen donated by Meeting of the Mines/Goldstrike Corp – Woods
Gold Quartz Specimen donated by Meeting of the Mines/Goldstrike Corp – Valley Prospectors
Dredge cutout custom Handsaw donated by Skookum Gold Camp – Ronnie McCoy
Detector cutout custom Handsaw donated by Skookum Gold Camp – Tim Trask
20 Acre placer claim donated by Mac cerberusminingsolutions@gmail.com – Tim Trask
1 Oz Silver Rounds, 35 prizes! www.publiclandsforthepeople.org – winners contacted (see below)
1/4”x24”x48” Rock Harness www.MoveitCableSystem.com – Cassy F
Lifetime PLP Membership www.publiclandsforthepeople.org  – Douglas County Prospectors Association
Minelab Xterra Metal Detector www.minelab.com – Ronnie McCoy
(2 prizes) 1 Year Membership to www.ReinkeGoldMining.com – Kevin Hoch / Natalie
Paid admission for 2 to the next PLP FallFest – Dino
Garrett AXIOM Pulse Gold Detector www.garrett.com – Linda Starr
Thompson II Puffer Drywasher manufactured by Mad Mining – James Jupena
PLP Golden Paydirt Bag – Jason Lonsford
Roaring Camp 4 days/ 3 nights donated by www.roaringcampgold.com – Kevin Hach
Gold Cube 4-Stack donated by www.goldcube.net – Del W
1 Week Alaska Mining donated by www.SkookumGoldCamp.com – Kris Jones
1 Yr MineOperator Pure Au Membership – Roger Sims
$300 Gift Certificate to the Carraige House Inn Downieville – Tim Trask
$300 Gift Certificate to the Riverside Mt. Lodge Downieville – Kim Holmes
$50 Gift Certificate to the Cold Rush Café Downieville – Mary Mitchell
Riverdance Mini-Jig Donated by Riverdance Gold Mining – M. Paylen
(2) Coarsegold Prospectors One Year Membership – Thomas Heflin & Trish King
Golden Rule Classifier www.goldcube.net – Rick Mitchell
Hand painted gold display case donated by Mad Mining – Sam Alexander
Custom Skinning Knife Donated by LDMA Camp – number only ticket/given out at raffle
Metal Detecting Book (1st Edition) by Jerry Marquez – Ward
AKAU Paydirt Bag Donated by AKAU – Roger Sims
Sniping Tool donated by Gold Cube /Mike Pung – Tom Jimenez
Handmade leather Horseback bottle carrier – Casey F
Tow strap for 4×4 – number only ticket/given out at raffle
Handmade necklace made and donated by Marcia Betts – Willamette Vally Prospectors
Hand painted Round Mirror donated by Mike and Mindy – Wilson
2 antique metal signs – Joe Green

35 ONE OUNCE SILVER ROUNDS
1.   Ryan C
2.   Ronnie McCoy
3.   Gary Emmons
4.   Frenchie FCM
5.   Waldo Mining District c/o Tom Kitchar
6.   William Lieberman
7.   Adam Sauceda
8.   Hampton
9.   Del W.
10.  Dean Anderson
11.  Robert Thurber
12.  Steve Sannes
13.  Christin Isakson
14.  Adam Sauseda
15.  Frank and Tammy Serroni
16.  Roger Plata
17.  Alan Hurt
18.  Mike and Mindy
19.  Kim Holmes
20.  Robert Thurber
21.  Ed Pate
22.  Number only ticket – given out at raffle
23.  Waldo Mining District c/o Tom Kitchar
24.  Terry Wright
25.  Scotty Ingle
26.  Art and Rosie
27.  Willamette Valley Miners
28.  Kris Jones
29.  Ronnie McCoy
30.  Tim Trask
31.  Kris Jones
32.  Ronnie McCoy
33.  Tim Trask
34.  Number only ticket – given out at raffle
35.  Fred A

Your PLP volunteer Board of Directors… are working hard for you!
The original. No compromise.  Standing 35 years strong for Multiple Use on Public Land “RIGHTS”!

July Newsletter- Beware of Bootleggers!

July 2025
BEWARE OF BOOTLEGGERS !!
Hello Friends!

Public Lands for the People (PLP) warned that the Tucker Clements case proves the “…success of PLP’s guide cards, and it is not a reason to cut corners and just suction dredge mine and not do the reclamation.  Mining alone without cleaning the waterway is a good way to have the state pass another law kicking us out of the water.  So do your part.  Do it right and keep reclamation dredging RESPONSIBLY!.“

Apparently, a relatively new PLP member who is also a member of the New 49ers was misusing our sample partnership agreement by altering it for mining purposes (directly in conflict with the PLP issued CA guide cards and the sample partnership agreement guidelines) and he shared this with Dave McCracken (Mack), of the New 49ers mining club.  Dave Mack amplified this misuse to his New 49er members through an online newsletter by displaying a bootleg version of PLP’s document, encouraging people to copy it, and come dredge mine on the New 49er claims.

Keep in mind, PLP had a disclaimer on our sample partnership agreement (not to be confused with the PLP membership), that says “Disclaimer: Please be advised that this sample is not intended for use for exclusively prospecting and mining purposes. It is also not intended for exclusive use by prospecting and mining clubs and associations. Individuals are encouraged to consult with a competent attorney.” The language and disclaimer on the sample partnership agreement on our CA dredge guide cards was there for a very good reason.  The “reclamation” term on our sample reclamation agreement means to remove that which was previously lost in the context of an old and often inefficient mining practice.  The reclamation term is also often used to clean up and remove toxins from the environment. PLP’s use of the term Suction Dredging for Reclamation purposes was not used for purposes of 5653.8 exemption of the CA Fish & Game code as Dave Mack believes, it is for compliance with the Clean Water Act (CWA) policies, actions and exemptions.  He should know this because his attorney was directly involved in the litigation in Oregon that found that suction dredge MINING requires a 402-discharge permit from DEQ in OR (or the Water Quality Control Board in CA).

Thus far, Dave Mack of the New 49ers has refused to retract the bootleg sample partnership agreement by printing a retraction in a supplemental New 49er newsletter. Dave has modified this bootleg form twice at the time of this writing without consultation with his attorney.  We know this because we asked his attorney about his involvement.  Dave Mack misused the PLP sample partnership agreement where it was never intended by PLP or CA State legislative intent.

PLP’s President, through numerous warnings via email has told Dave Mack not to do this because it will get miners in deep trouble and will hurt PLP’s ongoing 5-year successful effort to get them back in the water legally, while at the same time PLP is seeking a more permanent federal legislative solution.  PLP has even offered Dave Mack an administrative solution using our contacts in the Trump administration to force the hand of the State at a club level which could be a wonderful thing — It would not require mass letter writing campaigns by the small mining clubs.  Quite frankly, Dave Mack is playing with fire, and he never should have rolled this out without talking to PLP and a competent attorney first.  This misuse of the PLP partnership agreement for mining purposes could very well motivate the state to repeal the 5653.8 exemption and put another nail in the dredge miner’s coffin.  Dave Mack is also knowingly, or unknowingly, exposing his membership to the $51,000 per day fines the Clean Water Act has placed on mining operators.  To make matters worse, the CA State Water Board are not the only code enforcers.  The Clean Water Act is also enforced by the citizen suit provision whereby any private environmental law firm (private attorney general) can act to sue the New 49ers, Dave Mack, or his members personally.  If you don’t believe PLP, just ask Shannon Poe of AMRA.  See ICL v. Poe (citation 86 F.4th 1243).  AMRA and AMRA’s membership are paying Shannon Poe’s $150,000 court ordered fine when the Idaho Conservation League (ICL) sued him in Idaho federal court a few years ago for protesting the required discharge permits for recreational dredge mining operators.  Shannon failed to heed PLP’s warnings, went ahead with his protest, and it blew up in his face (he failed to properly argue the PLP no addition argument), and set a horrible precedent against dredge mining.  Poe’s case went to the 9th circuit and set the 2nd precedent after the Oregon DEQ case that suction dredging for mining purposes requires an NPDES wastewater discharge permit.  Failure to do so may result in the MINING dredge operators facing $51,000 daily fines.  Recreational dredge mining caselaw (court decisions in the 9th circuit), decisions found that mining dredge operators are required to obtain the 402 NPDES discharge permit, while reclamation and restoration dredging can be exempt from the 402 permits when certain criteria are met – and PLP’s researchers know these criteria.  So, if you do not wish to be sued by environmentalist lawyers looking for deep pockets – don’t follow Dave Mack’s version of a partnership agreement and don’t be an easy target like Shannon Poe was to ICL.

Background

There are some on social media that say it’s not fair to have to join PLP (for a measly $75 dollars to support the cause and pay for our legal research work) to learn how to suction dredge without the need for a State permit and the NPDES discharge permit and they claim reclamation is not part of the U.S. Mining Law.

PLP has expended and continues to expend money on research into the Clean Water Act and other laws negatively impacting the miner’s ability to exercise his/her rights to own minerals upon public and private lands.  The state dredging laws, and its policies are rather complex and convoluted.  Because of the complexity of the Clean Water Act and the State laws, some people that do not do a deep dive and thoroughly understand them eventually get burned.  PLP is trying to keep the dredging community from getting needlessly burned if they follow our carefully crafted guidance so they may avoid severe financial harm. This expense has to be passed on to the users of our non-profit.  PLP’s board is not made up of the likes of Bill Gates and his wealthy friends and we have not received grants so we can just give away our research results.  So, for the cost of one nice dine out meal for the average couple, that is what PLP charges for a one year’s membership – it is cheap considering the cutting-edge research work that has been produced and the legal wins in court that are more successful than all other mining associations combined.  Unlike all the others, PLP has proven not once but twice in court cases that we can win water pollution cases such as in Godfrey and Osterbrink and it’s not by accident – it was by hard research and knowing the court rules of evidence.  We can only help dredgers if they follow our directions and do not alter our document templates.  Thank you for that respect.
Accomplishments | Public Lands For The People

Some people think they are all knowing about the Mining law, and that PLP is wrong to promote reclamation; thinking reclamation is not part of the mining law.  We say hogwash! The 1970 U.S. Mineral Policy Act (30 U.S.C. section 21(a) specifically states it is the U.S. mineral policy to promote mining and reclamation industries (see quote below) and because reclamation is considered an improvement of labor to the land and the unpatented mining claim, it qualifies as assessment work under 30 U.S.C section 28 of the 1872 Mining Law. “The Congress declares that it is the continuing policy of the Federal Government in the national interest to foster and encourage private enterprise in (1) the development of economically sound and stable domestic mining, minerals, metal and mineral reclamation industries, (2) the orderly and economic development of domestic mineral resources, reserves, and reclamation of metals and minerals to help assure satisfaction of industrial, security and environmental needs…”

Legislative Push update in D.C.

PLP legal researchers, Jann Higdem and Clark Pearson are still working with Congressman Fulcher’s legislative staff, Senator Risch & Crapo’s legislative staff and they are expanding to two new senators in another western state, while seeking more potential sponsors for our small miner relief bill and critical minerals push.  Unfortunately, AEMA is not on board with us and is working in another direction on Forest Service mineral regulatory changes – not at the Congressional level like PLP is doing to provide a more permanent solution that codifies the Trump administration agenda and the Trump minerals/mining related executive orders to streamline and cut over-regulation.  Every trip to the White House, Pearson has given his progress report to President Trump’s resource / energy advisors on PLP’s proposed legislation consistent with the President’s wishes for the domestic mining industry.  Pearson’s last update along with Higdem was just this last April 2025.

PLP has raised over $10,000 towards our $10,000 goal to fund our trips this year to D.C., PLP greatly appreciates your support! We plan to make a second trip soon to help move it along, please dig deep to help us cross the finish line for the mining community!

2025 FALLFEST

PLP has moved the 2025 Fallfest to a new location at LDMA in Duisenberg, California and will be held Oct. 9-12th, 2025. Attendees will enjoy access to additional nearby claims that will be available to prospect on! Sign-ups start in a few weeks on www.publiclandsforthepeople.org

If you like the work PLP does, please help PLP help you, and join or renew today to know how to effectively and professionally counter the agencies while making Prospecting, Mining and Reclamation Great Again!

Supporting PLP’s Grand Raffle also helps us continue to fight for your rights.  A book of 12 tickets is STILL only $10! We have a lot of great high value prizes, including amazing quartz-gold specimens!  You can’t win if you don’t enter! Tickets are available to purchase by phone for the 2025 Grand Raffle Drawing. The growing list of the prizes for the 2025 Grand Raffle is published on our PLP Facebook site.  You can call our toll-free number (844)-PLP-1990 which is (844) 757-1990 or Mail a Check (to the address below) and specify the number of ticket books you wish to have mailed to you.  The drawing date and location is October 11th at the 2025 Duisenberg, California PLP Fallfest event.

Your PLP Board of Directors

The original.  No compromise.  Standing 35 years strong for Multiple Use on Public Land “RIGHTS”!
Updating Our Mailing List:

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