Before you dig
Mining claims vs casual collecting
BLM on the ownership layer means the United States manages the surface. An active lode or placer claim can still cover that section. Casual float is a different problem from prying the mineral the claim was staked for.
How to look it up: MLRS, by township and section, the week you go. If the register shows an active claim on the spot you want to dig, ask the claimant or move. This page does not interpret claim law for a dispute.
Informational only — not legal advice. Confirm with the managing agency before you dig or hunt.