guide to conduct for hobby collectors of minerals rocks and fossils

This site wishes to discourage indiscriminate hammering at geological locations.

Guide to Conduct While Collecting
Geological Specimens in the Field
for Amateur Geologists
and Hobby Collectors

Disclaimer
The guide below is intended for use in the UK. This is not a comprehensive guide and does not cover all aspects of field collecting. Following the guide set out below in no way guarantees your personal safety. Persons collecting specimens do so at their own risk whether they follow the points below or not. We cannot accept any responsibility for injury resulting from activity inspired by this site or as a result of persons relying solely on this guide. We do not guarantee the accuracy of information in the following guide. Observe local By-Laws.

The list below is only intended to convey this site's
views with regard to behaviour in the field while
collecting rock, mineral or fossil specimens
as a hobby in the UK. It is suggested that persons who
collect or intend to collect such specimens should obtain and read the
GEOLOGICAL FIELDWORK CODE
by the Geologist's Association.

Part I - Preservation | Part II - Self-Preservation*

Part I - Preservation

The amount of good outcrops, especially fossil and mineral bearing
outcrops in the UK is limited. For this reason it is important to be
considerate towards both others who may wish to visit the site
and landowners or those who are responsible for working or
maintaining the site:

1. restrict collecting of 'in situ' specimens from sites to preserve the
quality of existing outcrops.

2. behave responsibly at geological sites, whether private or public land,
to help maintain access for all to such locations. Always close gates
behind you. Never leave litter.

3. collect from fallen blocks, spoil heaps, scree or locations where there is an
abundant supply of specimens which are not of a particular scientific importance.

4. Always obtain prior permission before entering private land. Be careful not to
leave discarded rock fragments where they could be a hazard to people,
livestock or vehicles.

5. Take care not to damage walls, fences or other structures. Never collect from
walls. Take care not to damage vegetation or displace wildlife.

Part II - Self-Preservation*
*please read disclaimer.

Many geological locations are potentially hazardous. It is important to
take great care when collecting at such locations:

6. Avoid going collecting alone. If alone or with a small group in a remote or
hazardous area then always inform someone of your location and report
to them your departure and return.

7. If visiting coastal sites always check for information such as tides and
other hazards from the coastguard service

8. Do not explore underground unless you have appropriate experience
and equipment. Refer to item no.6 in this list.

9. Do not attempt to climb cliff faces or other dangerous outcrops

10. The booklet 'Safety on Mountains' by the British Mountaineering
Council should be read prior to visiting mountainous or remote
areas. Refer to item no.6 in this list.

11. Do not enter working or disused quarries without permission.

Disclaimer
This guide is intended for use in the UK. This is not a comprehensive guide and does not cover all aspects of field collecting. Following the guide set out above in no way guarantees your personal safety. Persons collecting specimens do so at their own risk whether they follow the points above or not. We cannot accept any responsibility for injury resulting from activity inspired by this site or as a result of persons relying solely on this guide. We do not guarantee the accuracy of information in the above guide. Observe local By-Laws.

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