Charles,

Most of the LDMA properties have caretakers so there is usually someone to assist you in getting oriented to the claim. The GPAA claims are different. They do not have people living on them to help out. Local chapters like in Coker Creek or the Buchanan Farm Claim will make it there home base and meet there and help take care of the property as well as answer claims questions. I have fund if you are going to a particular claim and want information posting a question here will usually get quick results as well as maybe a name of someone in that area you can contact. We all will welcome you to our family and that is what it is. Everyone treats you like family and is more than willing to help out.

When on LDMA or leased prperties, check with the owners or caretakers to see what and how.  If on GPAA claims or public areas be aware of the various state laws and regs on where you can dig or not.  Some states won't allow digging in vegitated banks or outside of the wet perimeter.