What does a claim look like?
 

I've often read about how to file a claim, and part of staking it involves posting the claim. So if I'm out one day enjoying the riverside with a shovel over my shoulder :wink: and I come across a promising bend in the river, how will I know if someone else saw it first?

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

Where are you located. The rules are varied.

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

You would have gone to the BLM office and examined what claims are in the area. Claims are marked by piles of stones at the corners and one somewhere near the middle. Most people will put a post in the pile, maybe whitewash it, and put the claim papers in a bottle or can attached to the post. But all that is required is a pile of stones and one copy of the claim papers.

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

What area are you in Prospector. All areas have staking regs that can be checked out locally. Where I am, a single claim unit is made up of a 400m x400m block, which is to be identified by staking the corners, starting at the NE corner and staking CCW to the 4th claim post. The orientation of the unit is astronomical north, unless there is a township fabric. Also the outer boundries of the claim must be clearly visable and identified by blazing or brushing. Rock cairns are also commonly used markers. Many other details must be followed also.

These are just some of the details for staking in this area. I am sure copies of the local staking procedures can be obtained at your nearest gov. office

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

Do your homework here first: http://www.geocommunicator.gov/GeoComm/index.shtm. Or, join GPAA and prospect their claims.

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

I'm not familiar with different areas and I suppose most others aren't either, so your first stop should always be the BLM office and/or your state's bureau of mines. You will also need to contact the county recorder at some point so you may as well drop in there too for whatever advice they offer.

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

Here's a picture of several clams. Oh, wait a minute, you said claim not clam, how silly of me. I'm embarrassed.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x...from/clams.jpg

Re: What does a claim look like?
 

I'm in California. <SLV>, that sight is awesome.