DANGER-Stay Out-Stay Alive:
Abandoned Mines on Public Land

---

Over the last 140 years approximately 5,700 known prospects, shafts, tunnels and adits, or other mine features were developed on lands within the California Desert District (CDD) to advance the development of mineral resources in southern California. Abandoned mine features and facilities have always been an attraction to public land users, often resulting in injury or death as a result of falls, impacts, suffocation and other hazards because of ill-advised and ill-equipped entry into mine workings.

The Bureau of Land Management’s Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) program enhances public safety and improves water quality by reducing or eliminating the effects of past hardrock mining in the western United States. BLM and its’ "Cooperative Conservation" partners mitigate hazards to protect public health and safety, and restore watersheds for resources, recreation, fish, and wildlife. The AML program helps restore the environment and improve safety for visitors and users of public lands.  Another site pertains to a public awareness campaign by the BLM and Mine Safety and Health Administration warning people to stay our of abandoned mines. The campaign is :"Stay Out-Stay Alive".  Also please visit the State of California, Office of Mine Reclamation AML site for more Calfiornia abandoned mine information.