new members suffer - Gold Prospectors Association of America -

Last Post 21 May 2021 08:35 AM by Mark Taylor

new members suffer

75 Replies

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Greg Miller

Greenhorn
Posts:2

11 Dec 2019 01:27 AM
I am a new LDMA and GPAA member and I have to say this is the one of the most lame forums I have ever seen. There is virtually no new information about claims either GPAA or LDMA. The catalog of information is about worthless as no new information has been published in what appears to be months to mostly years. I want to get started prospecting, but most of the information is out dated or non existent. Why is there so little information for new members? As it stands for newbie on the east side of the us, the locations are limited and no new information is shared with anyone. In fact, I was interested in going to GA, SC, or AL for a 3 day stay and could hardly find any information for me to feel comfortable with going as as a new prospector with new gear not used before due to weather in Michigan not allowing me to test my equipment prior to snow flying. So how does one go about this new adventure without feeling like a fool? I thought that forums were around for people to learn. If that is the case why would anyone spend the money to access the claims without any help or assistance from these forums. Knowing what i know now about this "wealth" of knowledge from these forums I would have reconsidered my purchase. This is ridiculous. How do we as "members" that have paid thousands of dollars get information that will actually help us in our efforts? I do not want to drive to a site that this worthless. Lets take three from the SE USA as an example. The most recent post from Vein Mountain was in November of 2018, the most recent from Oconee was a post in 9/19 that no one responded to, and the Loud Mine was also in 9/19 which had a few responses. How does this help anyone? Why is no one posting? Why are there so few willing to help? Why did we pay so much for no assistance? Guidance please for the SE USA? We all want to learn to be successful and have fun, but it is difficult with this "membership" that appears to be unwilling to help and guide. I am not looking to get rich, but I am looking to find people willing to have fun and help those around them learn how to enjoy themselves looking for the allusive gold in ground. I am interested to hear from new and old how we can assist all of us in this common goal?

Leo Lorenz

Basic Member
Posts:486

11 Dec 2019 09:36 AM
I really think that prospectors that have been doing this for awhile do not want to give up information on the location of their favorite fishing hole. And the organization in of itself, is TOO occupied with running the business portion of the club. They basically leave the updating in the forums to the members to do. If no members post, then that is what we get, nothing.

William Hall
Buzzard

Buzzard
Posts:650

11 Dec 2019 06:46 PM
Greg, I'm surprised someone would lay down thousands of dollars to join a "club" without doing any research on that club Did you expect to have a GPAA representative take you out somewhere and say dig here ? If you would read the forums here, you would find a plethora of information, more than you will remember, its there Forums are a dying thing, it's face space, twittel, texting, only us dinosaurs come to the ole forums and as Leo suggests, no one here will hold your hand out to the creek side and say pan here YOU have to do the research, the info is out there you just gotta go get it yourself Belonging to the LDMA, they have many common digs and other outings, join in, join a chapter, great people, good info Joining a club is just the first step of gold prospecting/mining Research and hard work is the only way to get that flash in the pan, even if you buy cons, it takes research Or, go sit in the corner and be mad at yourself, your choice... Bill

Christopher Satkowski

Highbanker
Posts:112

12 Dec 2019 01:17 PM
I would recommend you go to the local chapters part of the website, and contact the state director, or better yet, attend a local chapter meeting. I've found gold mining you really need to "pull" information, rather than having it "pushed" to you. Also recommend you attend a Gold and Treasure show near you. The GPAA is listed here: www .goldprospectors. org/Store/Events. Does not have to be the GPAA show. All show's I've been have had a club or two where you can make contacts and sign up for meetings. As far as learning how to mine, IMO nearly everyone on this forum is waiting to get their first ounce and certainly not making a living out of this. In the state of AZ, there is something like 5 people who earn a living consistently by mining gold, out of a population of 4 million. Those 5 are probably spending a lot of time in the field and not on the forums. There's probably a lot more that make something, but not enough to live off. There's definitely many more that have spent more than they will ever get back. Out of the 100,000 people who went to the Klondike Gold Rush, only a little over 100 found it worthwhile. Really can't do much about # of people on this forum. There are other forums out there much more active than this, but they are regionalized. Another forum I am on in nuggetshooter, but that is specific to AZ. Lastly, if its that bad, contact the GPAA about returning the membership, at a discounted price if you need to. Take my "free" advice for what it is worth.

ARTHUR WAUGH

Advanced Member
Posts:967

12 Dec 2019 02:57 PM
Greg- The advice about contacting/joining chapters is spot on. There is a wealth of knowlege about equipment and it's use to be had for asking. Many, many members are willing and able to help someone new learn, all you have to do is show up and ask. Contact the state directors for the areas you want to go to. As you might be aware, you can't file claims in the eastern part of the US. Therefore the properties listed are either private land owned by LDMA, or leases of other property by GPAA/LDMA. As to what is out there, look at the online guide and see what members are posting about various claims/properties.

Bill McCoy

New Member
Posts:42

12 Dec 2019 11:18 PM
If you can get to any of the group dig activities, I found that helpful in my first few months. Met a lot of people, saw lots of equipment in use, gained a lot of understanding. Just my $.02

Dominic Ricci

Greenhorn
Posts:4

19 Dec 2019 04:20 PM
Hi Greg, Welcome to the GPAA-LDMA family! There are many great sources for information, and like the previous post responses to you, you will have to go to more than one place. Here are a few suggestions for LDMA: www.LostDutchmans.com - General info on each LDMA Camp https://www.facebook.com/LDMACAMPS/ - Main LDMA facebook page Each Camp has a facebook group page with what is happening in camp. Burnt River Camp – Oregon (541) 519 - 0104 burntriver@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Burnt River Camp Blue Bucket Camp – Oregon (541) 869 - 2455 bluebucket@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Blue Bucket Camp Scott River Camp – California (530) 496 - 3204 scottriver@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Scott River Camp Italian Bar Camp – California (209) 213 - 1485 italianbar@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Italian Bar Camp Duisenburg Camp – California (760) 793 - 8072 duisenburg@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Duisenburg Camp Stanton Camp – Arizona (928) 427 - 9908 stanton@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Stanton Camp Athens Camp – Michigan (269) 729 – 4446 athens@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Athens Camp Vein Mountain Camp – North Carolina (828) 652 - 0144 veinmountain@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Vein Mountain Camp Oconee Camp – South Carolina (864) 944 - 8325 oconee@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Oconee Camp Loud Mine Camp – Georgia (706) 219 - 3075 loudmine@goldprospectors.org LDMA – Loud Mine Camp Plus reading the Gold Prospectors magazine and the Pick & Shovel Gazette always has information in them. Contacting the local GPAA Chapters is a great source. I trully encourage you to participate in a few National Events as well. Dirt Party Outings and Detector Hunts. Please call me in the office at 800-551-9707 when you have questions or need some guidance.

Chad Snyder

Greenhorn
Posts:2

02 Jan 2020 12:38 AM
As a person who has literally only ever panned a single pan of dirt, I come armed to the teeth with knowledge about gold prospecting, claim laws, how to stake a claim, your rights as an claimant, geology, history, panning techniques (blueberry bounce) for you old timers, how to search for claims on LR2000, how to find claims on google earth, townships. And a lot more!! This is the kind of knowledge and dedication it takes man, gold mining isn’t easy if it was every dog would be out there getting that shiny! Watch the YouTube channel Askjeffwilliams and you will learn more than enough to go diggin in the hills. If you want to know a specific thing all you have to do is ask, just don’t ask where the gold is because people will just laugh. So get off your hinny and find that shinny!

DANIEL HARRIGER

Greenhorn
Posts:1

02 Jan 2020 02:06 PM
The Chapter Officers are usually a good source of information on their respective areas. I often receive inquiries from both Newbies and others on claims and other sites here in Alabama. I have met with folks at the sites to show them where they might find gold and even lent my highbanker and other equipment to help them during their stay. I agree that the GPAA website has it shortcomings, but the Gold Prospector magazine and the Pick and Shovel Gazette can also provide contact information on the areas that you want to visit. Dan Harriger, President, North Alabama Chapter

Kenneth Swineford

New Member
Posts:33

07 Jan 2020 10:40 AM
A little late to this thread, but I suspect the lack of information is as I observe at my local level the GPAA/LDMA attempted to stay with the times or perhaps cut cost, but chapters have a lot of older folks and those not interested in learning/using/posting to social media. If you're from the North East, you know our problem, Property! Chapter Members come from all walks of life but, when we talk social media many just don't use it. Otherwise this forum has a core of Members willing to share opinions and ideas. Your local Chapter or GPAA location has that guy who can't wait to teach someone else how to pan, sluice, or make biscuits but we certainly are not telling anyone beyond generalities where we are finding gold. You can find local chapter information for your area on this site, go to a meeting Chapters are free regardless of club affiliation and chance is someone has recently been or is going to a GPAA/LDMA property "hint" "hint". You can expect to be disappointed we all were/are it's the nature of the game we play. That said you could"suggest" to the LDMA that it has a main Facebook page but what about the camps with hosts?

Rodney Godbey

Greenhorn
Posts:1

09 Jan 2020 06:56 PM
Lots of good information from Dominic here, thanks!

RONALD READ

Greenhorn
Posts:2

09 Jan 2020 09:06 PM
Hi Gregg,. There is a lot of info in these forums / members areas. There a lot of videos that show how to set up and use the equipment.. I'm a member of glass living east of Cleveland Ohio. My first trip to prospect was to Buchanan Ya. Due to my brother living outside Atlanta. I stayed a week at the claim in Buchanan and found gold. I also talked with everyone I came across. ( About 6 in all as it was the first weekend of October in Georgia and getting to cold for them southerner lol. 1 gentleman came over and helped allowed me to use his camp stove to cook my supper as mine broke the first night there and the next morning took me to the creek and asked me where I thought I was going to start I pointed at a spot and he agreed and showed me where and how to do a test pan then withinin an hour I found my first pice of gold in my life. Not long after that I as able to return the favor and assist him in getting his dredge running. I have also been to and found gold and a small diamond at the swank claim in beliville Ohio , which I'm planning on spending the second full week prospecting and camping. Like the others have said, join a chapter or show up at a meeting if possible. I have not yet met any unfriendly people at any of the outings I've been to or just at the claim prospecting.. If your not busy that week April 10th to the 18th ( the week before Easter. ) I invite ya to c'mon down to ohio off I 71 and I'll share my limited knowledge and send show ya the folding sluice I found my first gold on. It's be a shame for ya to go to GA or SC and have problems. Just a thought. P.S. I am by no means any kind of seasoned prospector, just a mere novvice. but I enjoy it. There are also 3 sites here in Ohio in which to and try out the ones I've not been to. I wish you luck En.

John Chase

Greenhorn
Posts:12

14 Jan 2020 06:26 PM
I started prospecting prior to the invention of the internet. I learned by doing and making friends with similar interest. no one in their right mind is going to advertise on this forum or any other where the gold is. I purchased a metal detector in the early 70 s from a guy named Jimmy Sierra and been friends ever since. Jimmy was made famous from his books and working as an adviser to Whites detectors. as Of this date there are over three hundred books and publications in my personal library about geology and gold prospecting. they will tell you where to find gold if you read them. Finding gold is like mastering any sport you need to learn and practice. Its not enough to buy gobs of equipment and memberships you need to get some dirt on your shoes and start reading. An excellent book to start with is "Fists Full of gold by Chris Ralph. " You didn't mention if you belong to a local gold prospecting group that is where you should have started. years ago I had a friend who left a great job to go into photography he must have spent over a hundred k on equipment sad thing was he couldn't take a good picture to save his life. When I mentioned he should take a few classes he blew me off we have never spoken since. he eventually went BK. your situation is not so uncommon but you can correct it if your willing.

Rick Thomason

Greenhorn
Posts:18

15 Jan 2020 05:33 PM
Hello, just joined in my new status as "RE tired". Will be in Vegas end of month and looked forward to trying out my new detector. I don't understand claims, and what to look for. Haven't read anyone having any success, I assumed protecting that fishing hole. I think we will have to go thru the rigors also. I did find out that the claim closest to Vegas has a lot of rattle snakes-whoa, that was good feedback! Good luck.

Bill McCoy

New Member
Posts:42

16 Jan 2020 02:25 PM
[quote] Posted By <a href='https://www.goldprospectors.org/AccountPreferences/userid/2932610' class='af-profile-link'>Rick Thomason</a> on 15 Jan 2020 05:33 PM Hello, just joined in my new status as "RE tired". Will be in Vegas end of month and looked forward to trying out my new detector. I don't understand claims, and what to look for. Haven't read anyone having any success, I assumed protecting that fishing hole. I think we will have to go thru the rigors also. I did find out that the claim closest to Vegas has a lot of rattle snakes-whoa, that was good feedback! Good luck. [/quote] Welcome, Rick! I haven’t tried the Vegas claims but I also hunt the deserts in CA. Get yourself a good pair of boots (with no metal eyelets for the laces) and a pair of snake gaitors and you’ll have some peace of mind. It’ll also help in the event you get into cactus as well.

Paul Bordlemay

Greenhorn
Posts:10

20 Jan 2020 01:32 PM
Greg, The best advice is to educate yourself. Nobody is going to spoon feed you information. You can buy books or go to the library. There are thousands of videos on YouTube. There is an exorbitant amount of information online. Don't rely on forums. Most people don't take the time to specifically search forums for questions from others that need advice. Find a local GPAA club and network with people. If your getting started into metal detecting there are local metal detecting clubs as well. Ask them questions. If you have a question about a claim and you don't get any response from a forum, email the GPAA club from that area or find their Facebook page. What is more important than the forums is the access to the claims. Your membership gives you access to these claims. Yes there may be some areas or claims open to access by the general public, but you might not be near one. There may also be fees and restrictions. Its best to look at your membership as a tool. It has a specific use and it can't do everything.

Ricky Adams

Greenhorn
Posts:9

20 Jan 2020 07:10 PM
That is some good advice Paul :)

BILL WYNN

Greenhorn
Posts:19

27 Jan 2020 07:24 AM
Hey Greg The first club meeting at the Buchanan claim is March 7th, come on down. We have Schedualed outings the second Sat. of every month

Vince Petrillo

Greenhorn
Posts:1

27 Jan 2020 07:52 PM
I’m also having trouble. I just joined and I’m trying to register. Also as a newbie, I too was hoping to get more info. Perhaps I’m not using site correctly.

RONALD READ

Greenhorn
Posts:2

27 Jan 2020 07:58 PM
I'd love to come down again but sadly any be able to until sometime the end of September to October. This is the place I fund my first gold

Bill McCoy

New Member
Posts:42

28 Jan 2020 03:52 PM
Damn. Sounds like some people are just built for going it alone.

Ricky Adams

Greenhorn
Posts:9

28 Jan 2020 03:56 PM
I was kinda thinking the same way Bill.

William Hall
Buzzard

Buzzard
Posts:650

28 Jan 2020 07:48 PM
LOL @ Ron, I love this, some serious words of wisdom "I have a limited tolerance for BS" Every day I cherish my alone time Bill

Ron Graham

Greenhorn
Posts:6

28 Jan 2020 10:53 PM
I think I was too cranky, but I get irate at the mention of social media as a learning tool. Social media is mostly a whole lot of "Hey, look at what stupidity, inane act, or whatever else my drunk rear end thinks is cute today! " In regard to claims I painted with a bit of a broad brush. I have not tried them all, and there is likely some good GPAA claims out there with gold yet. I'll try to get to them all one day. ..after the apocalypse...when no one will bother me. 😉

Jeremiah Hartman

Greenhorn
Posts:5

02 Feb 2020 02:39 AM
The GPAA is a great place to help get started. I have been in contact with several members and have helped me out in many ways when I first started prospecting. There are chapters that will help you if contact them. I hope you find a way to enjoy prospecting and finding shinny stuff! Good digging

GREGORY BUSHEY

Greenhorn
Posts:1

13 Feb 2020 11:50 AM
I originally joined this organization back in 2013 with the exception of the reading on line and at that time they were TV shows that showed a lot but the majority of what I learned how to find claims how to find a place to dig how to dig how to pan so on and so forth right from scratch there was not a single person on that claim that wasn’t willing to help most of the time walking over just because I had a confused look on my face they are that helpful go to A claim, find someone that’s already there ask questions worse thing that can happen is a lot better than what you’re going through now someone may say “I’m busy ask someone else or come back in 30 minutes”

Michael Welch

Greenhorn
Posts:3

14 Feb 2020 02:56 PM
Rick, If you are going to metal detect for gold make sure you practice, practice, practice of what to listen for with your metal detector. Gold will sound different than other metals, and knowing exactly what to listen for will save you hours of wasted energy on trash. Mike

Michael Parramore

Greenhorn
Posts:3

14 Feb 2020 05:05 PM
Join a local gpaa club. That's what I did and man have I met some awesome people.

Angel Wood

Greenhorn
Posts:1

18 Feb 2020 10:40 AM
I can understand your frustration, When my wife and I first started this, we didn't know what we were doing.. a third of the time we still don't ( lol ). however, we have been members of our Local chapter, met a lot of Helpful people who have taught us a lot. we find that a lot of claims online aren't updated as much as we would like either, but with the tight group of friends we've made word of mouth spreads kind of fast. Look up your local chapters, for group outings, meetings, events etc etc, meet people don't be afraid to ask questions.

Andrew Sinkewicz

Greenhorn
Posts:2

28 Feb 2020 05:14 PM
I am brand new at panning and a brand new GPAA member. I am using GPAA as a tool. I am not interested in joining a chapter or going to events. I use it to help my technique and to seek advice. I was lucky enough to find some flour gold and a small small flake my first time out. I was spoiled. I since have not found any. But its fun just to hike around, sit next to a stream, pan a little and be one with nature. I do NOT plan on getting rich. If I find a “picker” I will be happier than a Pig in Mud.....lol PS- TV is entertainment ONLY!! They get paid to produce ratings. No drama = no ratings = no watchers = no money. Why would a real miner go on TV? same reason people sell “paydirt”. To supplement what panning cant provide. *they are washing 500 yards an hour and walk away with only 100,000$ in gold!?** (Real/Fake?) So how much dirt are YOU panning an hour? My 2 cents...;)

Jerry White

Greenhorn
Posts:1

01 Mar 2020 10:29 AM
most site have been pick over so bad that you have to wait for flood gold to find a flake as a member I will not be advancing to LDMA to the fact that the sites are way over picked I feel so duped by this site.

Cynthia Carver

Greenhorn
Posts:24

01 Mar 2020 02:50 PM
I've been a member off and on since 2009. This year I became immersed in prospecting. Also, my first year of really finding anything worth telling tall tales about :) If you aren't the type of person to do things alone and want to do group adventures, then recruit some friends to do this with you. I notice you haven't responded to many of the posts. I hope you find this hobby to your liking. It falls short for many folks who are hoping for fast riches. In my first year, I joined the state chapter. Those folks were very helpful in teaching me how to pan. They were using sluices and such but I wasn't ready to invest in more equipment. I was armed with my green pan, a kitchen sifter to classify :-) and a buck knife to dig in crevices and loosen the dirt. Things have changed and I'm looking for my next piece of equipment. I know what I want and that's the beginning of expanding the hobby. With classifiers that fit in the buckets and a couple of green pans, I'm ready to hunt for the shiny. Decide what you really want out of the hobby before complaining newbies suffer. This newbie doesn't feel as if she has suffered, it's one big adventure. PS: after checking, he hasn't responded to any of the advice offered. Shame on him.

Bill McCoy

New Member
Posts:42

01 Mar 2020 03:36 PM
Well said Cynthia!

John Chase

Greenhorn
Posts:12

01 Mar 2020 08:05 PM
I’ve worked picked over sites since 1970 most people don’t know geology and not what to look for. I’ve never been disappointed.

Andrew Sinkewicz

Greenhorn
Posts:2

02 Mar 2020 12:38 AM
You know what they say, “Gold is where you find it!”

KEN FLOOD

Greenhorn
Posts:19

02 Mar 2020 12:11 PM
Greg, I'm reaching out to you and everyone else on here. 1. 864 944-8325. This phone number will get you all the information you need concerning gold mining. 2. Updated Information on gold in SC. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1303356383142385/ 3. What is happening, Events, National Outings, Camp Happenings - https://www.facebook.com/oconeegold/ 4. Gold History - https://youtu.be/tCf3KwkW63c 5. Gold Bearing Material Is Waiting To Be Run - https://youtu.be/k-yurLuhwPA I don't understand when you say there is no help or guide. I have been here at Oconee Gold Mine for over 2 years helping and guiding fellow miners. I even post on the Oconee forum page things happening here. Oconee Gold Mine has a busy 2020 Gold Season with something going on every week starting in April. Fish Fry, Spaghetti Dinners, Meet and Greet Socials, Pancake Breakfasts, Dig Parties, Detector Hunts, Stream Digs and 2 huge events which you should have received an email on. The Gold N BBQ Event on April 16 - 19 and Diggers Dirt Party on October 6 - 11. I have given you plenty of information that I have posted all over the internet, including the forum here. What you do with the information is up to you but if you're wanting to learn, have fun, meet great people, find gold and more then I suggest you make the call and book your site. When you call, provide this code OCONEE20 and get your 3rd night of camping FREE. Offer expires 3/31/20

John Chase

Greenhorn
Posts:12

02 Mar 2020 12:31 PM
Greg, I've been prospecting probably since 1970 and I've learned that most folks want the gold but many aren't willing to learn the dirt. They just want to walk out and pick shiny things off the ground and when that fails someone else has to be at fault. Usually this happens after they spend big bucks on equipment and memberships with very little budgeted for books and classes.

Michael Welch

Greenhorn
Posts:3

02 Mar 2020 02:05 PM
Isn’t that always the case? Lots of people want success but aren’t willing to put in the effort to get there. I’m not criticizing anyone on this site, I’m just agreeing with a basic observation. “I was lucky all my life.” “The harder I worked, the luckier I got.”

Ricky Adams

Greenhorn
Posts:9

02 Mar 2020 04:20 PM
Hi Cindy, good post !!! This is my first time as I got a 3yr membership for Christmas from my Honey Buns LOL. I have found nothing but help in this community, as long as you want it !! The forum here is very helpful as long as "you search" what you are looking for, and if you do not see what you need, someone will contact you to help get you the info that you need. As "most" people should know and understand is that closed forums like this one will be much slower to obtain your answers as most everyone joins FB pages which are of course more active than the old type forums. I could ramble on and on LOL, but I will not! :) ... I just wanted to let you along with the other positive posters on this topic that "us new members" are not suffering, and if they are, they are doing something wrong,,, IMO anyways. Love it here!!!!

Ricky Adams

Greenhorn
Posts:9

02 Mar 2020 04:21 PM
[quote] Posted By Michael Welch on 02 Mar 2020 02:05 PM Isn’t that always the case? Lots of people want success but aren’t willing to put in the effort to get there. I’m not criticizing anyone on this site, I’m just agreeing with a basic observation. “I was lucky all my life.” “The harder I worked, the luckier I got.” [/quote] I totally agree!

Ricky Adams

Greenhorn
Posts:9

02 Mar 2020 04:25 PM
Thank you so much for the information you just posted !! This is why I "Love" this community, if you talk and act positive people like you knock my doors down with info. Just wanted to pass the flowers onto you Ken :)

KEN FLOOD

Greenhorn
Posts:19

03 Mar 2020 12:52 PM
Thanks Ricky! I will be sure to post more info on our Oconee Camp forum page. I try to post events and happening at the camp on here since some members do not use FB or other social media to keep our members informed of the great things happening at Oconee.

James Martin

Greenhorn
Posts:7

07 Mar 2020 03:57 PM
To me this is a recreational pastime involving getting out and exploring. This is not about getting rich. However I believe that my membership should be going to purchase more gold bearing claims so I have more places to go. If this organization is spending more than 25% of its incoming money on administration then something is amiss. I just got done visiting the Phoenix Gold Show. I was surprised how small it was. Still a lot of fun though. Should be visiting the one in Butte too. Thanks!

JERRY PEREZ

New Member
Posts:61

08 Mar 2020 01:16 AM
100% agree I have been inactive for about a little over a year and a half and came back and was excited to come back to GPA only to find out at The farms are just as lame as ever I might call to get a refund back cuz this is just plain old nonsense might as well join a local prospecting club

JERRY PEREZ

New Member
Posts:61

08 Mar 2020 01:17 AM
100% agree I have been inactive for about a little over a year and a half and came back and was excited to come back to GPA only to find out at The forums the same and lame as ever I might call to get a refund back cuz this is just plain old nonsense might as well join a local prospecting club

Cynthia Carver

Greenhorn
Posts:24

12 Mar 2020 09:39 PM
Wow Jerry, maybe you should get a refund. With your being inactive for over eighteen months and still unhappy, definitely you should ask for a refund and find a better club to hang out with.

Tom Riley

Greenhorn
Posts:9

13 Mar 2020 01:10 PM
[quote] Posted By Chad Snyder on 02 Jan 2020 12:38 AM As a person who has literally only ever panned a single pan of dirt, I come armed to the teeth with knowledge about gold prospecting, claim laws, how to stake a claim, your rights as an claimant, geology, history, panning techniques (blueberry bounce) for you old timers, how to search for claims on LR2000, how to find claims on google earth, townships. And a lot more!! This is the kind of knowledge and dedication it takes man, gold mining isn’t easy if it was every dog would be out there getting that shiny! Watch the YouTube channel Askjeffwilliams and you will learn more than enough to go diggin in the hills. If you want to know a specific thing all you have to do is ask, just don’t ask where the gold is because people will just laugh. So get off your hinny and find that shinny! [/quote] Perfect !

Jeff Walsh

Greenhorn
Posts:1

18 Mar 2020 01:11 PM
Greg im from Michigan too my friend and I are members me ldma and my friend gpaa . I come on here to pay dues and just to see whats up if anything new we haven't been able to do much with groups in many years now . when we first got into it the mi chapter had a little outing in west branch at a gravel pit my friend lives near there so I called him up and made the trip out there we met many a lot of great people and gave us so much info im sure we forgot most few years back we went to the Athens camp had a great time and the caretaker there at the time helped us out a lot more we take at least our pans with us everywhere and keep our eyes open if we have the time it does not matter if its the side of road river or a small pit somewhere we take a look even our fishing trips never hurts to look when and where you can its been a few years sence we have been able to do anything j so hell or high water we have planed to get back to Athens this year in short see what the Michigan chapter is doing and try to get on an outing with them the people are great and are willing to teach we are still greenhorns but love to keep trying to get that shinny stuff and when you can start to find here in my you can find anywhere your friend happy

Steven Boesch

Greenhorn
Posts:2

23 Mar 2020 03:49 PM
I signed up over a year ago to hopefully meet some others with similar interest and access to the GPAA claims. I have not met any other members but I have not attended any meetings or reached out to any local chapters, so that one is on me. I do not expect to have anyone point and say dig here but I would like to talk methods, equipment, share ideas talk about the different GPAA claims, events and chapters as well as the possibility of creating creative and interesting solutions that benefit us all. I have visited the closest GPAA claim "Homack #1, 2 & 3 - Clear Creek" twice and found it very confusing. I plotted the claim on my map but could find no markers when I got there so I wasn't sure I was truly in the right location the first time. On my second trip I was much more assured of my location but again could find no markers, they might be there but I couldn't find any trace. Are GPAA claims marked? I understand the philosophy of not marking a claim, kind of says "look here!" Any advice? I am also looking for feedback on the Arkansas river GPAA claim in Colorado- Any would be helpful, thanks! Planning on a trip soon. I was up this year already in my favorite spot in mid-march, trying out my Keene Grizzly Sluice, still need to pan my cons but it was a beautiful day for washing dirt! WooHoo, Happy Hunting all in 2020! Hopefully get to meet some of you on the river!

Rick Thomason

Greenhorn
Posts:18

23 Mar 2020 06:27 PM
I'm in Fla and I love Lone Pine. Did/do some acting in LA and regular go/went to Ala Hills where my western heros filmed. I didn't know there was Gold in them thare Ala Hills. Really? I haven't seen a claim around there. Do you have a club?

Ricky Adams

Greenhorn
Posts:9

23 Mar 2020 06:56 PM
ALABAMA AUBURN, AL Adam Broach • 334-401-0471 adambroachgpaa@gmail.com CRAIGFORD, AL Dan Harriger • 706-586-8434 dharriger@yahoo.com

Burt C Greenfield Jr

Greenhorn
Posts:17

24 Mar 2020 05:10 PM
Hi Steven; My name is Burt Greenfield and I live is Stratmoor valley I am a member of GPAA. Where do you live in Colorado. You can email me at prospector_41@yahoo.com. So we can get together and talk about Gold.

Scott Leidenberger

Basic Member
Posts:134

24 Mar 2020 06:30 PM
Steven, The Homack claim markers may have fallen over or have been taken. Lots of people in that area. Lots of shooting at one time, don't know if it is still like that though. The Arkansas river can be good. Flour gold is normal so you should not get skunked. A good place to start out is the River Bridge campground. It has parking, camping sites and restrooms. If you are just going for the day you will have to pay. It was $8.00 dollars last year. Take small bills. If camping you need to call and reserve a spot first. The claim is big so you may find a place down the road to pull off if you do not want to use the campground. During spring runoff the river is very dangerous. It is a very popular for river rafters as well. Good luck. Scott

Steven Boesch

Greenhorn
Posts:2

26 Mar 2020 02:33 PM
Scott, Thank you for the information. When I was up at Homack last year I did see three vehicles in the parking lot and several hikers but did not hear any shooting. Maybe that has changed. The north side of soda creek road has many homes and they may have something to do with it. Thanks again, Steve

Martin Wormser

Greenhorn
Posts:3

29 Mar 2020 10:36 PM
Exxactly Bill

STANLEY SHIELDS

New Member
Posts:64

04 Apr 2020 08:08 PM
Well, Facebook feed has taken away a lot from the Forums. It was way good until some kept saying to lock all out except members. Seems like it went downhill from there. Just my opinion.

Jerry Clagg

Greenhorn
Posts:1

25 Apr 2020 07:42 PM
I agree with Greg, you have a poorly designed and maintained website. I spent hours trying to find claims in Arizona. Whoever you let design your sight was inexperienced with end-user interfaces. Come on, Why do I have to start from the beginning every time I back out of a search? Why can I not search on a web based map. If you plan to continue without plans for updating to a better interface, I feel you will go the way of the Dodo. I will rather spend more money for a usable service, then suffer with what you offer.

Raymond Brown

Greenhorn
Posts:7

27 Nov 2020 11:22 AM
It is what you make it. Attitude is paramount.

George Mendoza

Greenhorn
Posts:3

22 Dec 2020 10:49 AM
I’m brand new to all this too but I don’t feel like I’m entitled to anything. I ask for help and if someone is willing to share something I consider it a bonus but I certainly don’t expect it. Nobody forced me to do this, I chose the pastime and whether I’m successful or not is on me. You mentioned the “thousands you spent”. Did anyone force you to spend that? How is it someone else’s responsibility to see that you get the satisfaction for those dollars you spent? It’s your money, and completely up to you find that satisfaction. I bought the membership for access to the claims. That’s about all I expected. Like I said, anything beyond that is a bonus but nobody owes me or you anything beyond that. Maybe you should take a minute to rethink your whole viewpoint.

John Chase

Greenhorn
Posts:12

22 Dec 2020 11:44 AM
Ive been prospecting since 1970 so i have some experience. Firstly i dont. Find it helpful to bash smash or flame anyone or websites. That being said We have many new prospectors looking for gold that may never have gotten any dirt on their boots. There are many websites and books available to teach prospecting. I find itts best when someone is having issues to actually TALK with people not click to find answers. Join a gold club get out and get dirty. With the value of gold going up there are going to be lots more frustrated flamers.

Burt C Greenfield Jr

Greenhorn
Posts:17

22 Dec 2020 07:04 PM
Hi John my name is Burt C Greenfield and I live in Colorado Springs CO. I would like to know where you live. You can connect me by email prospector_41@yahoo.com

John Chase

Greenhorn
Posts:12

22 Dec 2020 07:17 PM
New Mexico

John Day

Greenhorn
Posts:10

23 Dec 2020 08:48 AM
I have a member ship. Took several months to get the magazine. Not sure how long a paper membership card is gonna last in my wallet. Have not had my foot on one claim yet. Being new I was hoping to meet some members. I have several hobbies that all work together. I dont care iof I find gold or not, I just like to get out. Im also in SE New Mexico and still a bit shy and confused about this whole membership thing. Not sure I will renew.

Christopher Caszatt

Greenhorn
Posts:14

23 Dec 2020 11:16 AM
Totally agree that for what we pay we should at least get at least a laminate card

Christopher Caszatt

Greenhorn
Posts:14

23 Dec 2020 11:16 AM
Totally agree that for what we pay we should at least get at least a laminate card

MERLE JEWETT

Greenhorn
Posts:3

23 Dec 2020 11:35 AM
Whine, it so easy to laminate the membership card. I did it and so can you.

John Chase

Greenhorn
Posts:12

23 Dec 2020 11:39 AM
I spent $15,000 to get my pilots license and got a paper ID I agree it probably would be nice to have a plastic on

Christopher Caszatt

Greenhorn
Posts:14

23 Dec 2020 11:41 AM
Being a jerk don't help dialogue and if members don't express there desires then the organization has no clues how to improve membership satisfaction Thanks for showing us how little you understand how to improve the organization.

Christopher Caszatt

Greenhorn
Posts:14

23 Dec 2020 11:41 AM
Being a jerk don't help dialogue and if members don't express there desires then the organization has no clues how to improve membership satisfaction Thanks for showing us how little you understand how to improve the organization.

ARTHUR WAUGH

Advanced Member
Posts:967

23 Dec 2020 01:31 PM
I've said it before and I'll say it again...... contact the chapter closest to you or your state director. Contact information is online or in magazine. It's up to you to be a little proactive. Ask and most everyone will help out, we all want you to find gold. But we aren't going to tell you "x" marks the spot and dig it up for you. Bottom line....we supply the opportunity, what you make of it is up to you you. End of sermon.

John Day

Greenhorn
Posts:10

23 Dec 2020 06:44 PM
Well thank you for that information. What a way to build membership. What a waste of 100 bucks for membership. I was in the desert today, made friends with a coyote. You though dont sound friendly. So being proactive like laying good hard cash down is not worth anything. I still have not made my investment back and I didnt get the magazine first six months of membership. Got a real nice apology letter and some back issues when the two I have got come in. But Ill just go online and call those numbers and emails and wait, and wait and wait..........I must not be proactive enough. See my unproactive post when I have taken the time to post to a non existent club that exist only to get a membership fee. I been going out for over half a century without a membership. I have come across one claim, and had no idea to find out if it was on your list.

Nancy Aust

Greenhorn
Posts:20

24 Dec 2020 12:43 PM
OMG! I cannot believe the griping. You join to get help, but not to expect to get your money back. This is fun, and sometimes you are rewarded with shiny stuff. If you are diligent and know a little about the area and geology you might be lucky. Doesn’t do any good to gripe about the membership. Every time I have reached out to anyone at GPAA, I have received an answer.

ARTHUR WAUGH

Advanced Member
Posts:967

24 Dec 2020 01:28 PM
John....sorry you took it that way. From your reply, I take it you have tried contacting local and state folks. If they haven't gotten back to you, that's on them. Call the main office, they can put the pressure on them. Here, we talk to everyone we run into out there, and the members are ready to help out anybody.

John Day

Greenhorn
Posts:10

25 Dec 2020 01:51 PM
Not a rich guy so I usually get a return if I buy a new tool. I joined so I could get on some claims and try my hand at what your doing. Never hurts to learn a new way of doing things and I insist I have permission before I break dirt. This is one way to do that. I will fuddle through it.

Steve Krieter

Greenhorn
Posts:2

20 May 2021 10:55 PM
I'm with you on this ,very little to no help and as for all these claims Better directions and clearly MARKED claims. Was on what I thought was a claim and infact was on GOVERNMENT property not the claim and I have driven three times across the entire country only to not find a single GPAA claim marker so for this my expiring membership will not be renewed.

Mark Taylor

Greenhorn
Posts:12

21 May 2021 08:35 AM
[quote] Posted By John Chase on 23 Dec 2020 11:39 AM I spent $15,000 to get my pilots license and got a paper ID I agree it probably would be nice to have a plastic on [/quote] Wow... In 1970 I spent about $1500 to get my pilots license and got a paper card then. Things haven't changed much.

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