Anyone gathering minerals materials in excess of what would be considered recreational rock gathering needs a permit.  Gathering large quantities of rock (more than what would fit into a 5-gallon container) is allowed within the GJFO management boundaries, so long as the area is not restricted to rock gathering and a permit to do so is obtained.  There are many areas within the GJFO area that are closed to rock gathering.  Use the restricted area map to determine which areas are opened to, or restricted from, rock gathering.  Permits are typically issued from late April (weather dependent)  through November 30th, with all permits expiring on November 30th of each year.  Permits are not issued during winter months because of inaccessibility to the areas, and for wildlife habitat purposes. The information below pertains to the Grand Junction Field Office management area only.  To obtain mineral material outside the GJFO management area, contact the BLM office that manages the area you are interested in.

Common use area and open rock gathering areas are limited to one ton per household per year.

No heavy equipment may be used to remove decorative rock from BLM land.  Removal of decorative rock is limited to surface collecting by hand or using hand tools such as pry bars, picks and shovels.

Cross country travel is prohibited.  Vehicles are required to stay on existing roads.

Open Rock Gathering Areas  - Open areas that are outside a community pit or common use area.  In these areas rock can be gathered from the surface only, no surface disturbance can occur.

Areas Open to Rock Gathering ($17.00 a ton)

Common Use Area - a common use area generally covers a broad geographic area from which the BLM sells small amounts of rock.  In these areas rock can be gathered from the surface only, no surface disturbance can occur.

Bridgeport Lava Rock Site ($17.00 a ton)