Researching and Locating Metal Detecting Parks
Locating ideal dig sites can be a challenge, depending on where you live and what desirable destinations are nearby. If there’s a shortage of private properties or shorelines in your area, you might be thinking about metal detecting parks nearby. While this may seem like an ideal location to set out and investigate, the reality is that it can get a bit tricky. First of all, if the local park is a historical park of any kind, metal detecting is more than likely off-limits. In the event that you are close to one of the permissible metal detecting parks, you’ll more than likely need a metal detecting permit to be totally legit. Usually, these parks offer the permits for sale in their front office at an affordable rate, along with detailed information that can aid you if and when you come across a major find.
If you’re seeking comprehensive information on locating metal detecting parks in your immediate area, the FMDAC (Federation of Metal Detector and Archaeological Clubs Inc.) has created a comprehensive web page that gives a brief overview of each state’s laws and regulations regarding metal detecting and digging, links to applicable web sites for additional information and, at the bottom of the page, more in-depth information about each state’s legal restrictions and requirements. The web page can be viewed free of charge by visiting http://www.fmdac.org/parks/parks.htm .
If you’re ever in doubt about whether a particular park or site is considered metal detector friendly, call your local Parks & Recreation department to gain greater clarity. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and in some instances, metal detecting and digging in certain parks could be a violation of either state or federal laws, with considerable penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment or a combination of both.
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That said, gaining permission for small, local parks is often much easier. And while there may not be an abundance of buried treasures in these metal detecting parks, all “tot lots” are great potential sources for lost necklaces, watches, rings, earrings and other valuables. Sites like swing sets, see saws, jungle gyms, park benches and shaded tree areas are all hot spots for loot just waiting to be uncovered. Although these treasures may not be as monumental as digging up a bag of gold buried by a soldier before heading into battle, with gold at all-time record highs, the rewards can still be fairly considerable!
While locating metal detecting parks isn’t always easy, it’s almost always worth it. Not only are you presented with a chance to unearth a variety of potential treasures, you can also meet other metal detecting enthusiasts, perform random acts of kindness (by reconnecting those who have lost something with their missing objects) or perhaps even find a protege of your own. Regardless of what you unearth in metal detecting parks, you’re virtually guaranteed at least one good story to share!
