Hi Randy, I am pretty new at this myself but I grew up in New Mexico on a cattle ranch and we would have hunters come to us and ask permission to hunt on our land all the time. In my honest opinion just be honest about what you are there for and offer to show them how to pan etc. I did a prospecting trip about a year ago with my dad on a ranch in the Ortiz mountains in New Mexico and we asked the landowner if they would like to come along and see what it is all about, they did and figured it was fun, but too much work for them...it didnt help that we got skunked. Once again just be nice and if you can call before stopping by. A side note about the hunters those who asked for permission we would tell them exactly where the Elk and Deer herds were and beddown sites. Landowners have alot of useful knowledge that can be useful. I hope this helps

George "Buzzard" Massie built the GPAA on the foundation that we all help each other.

Great response Benjamin!

Thank you

When you go to talk to a landowner, show up on time, in clean neat clothes (don't look like a bum just off the freight train).  Explain what you are seeking to do, assure them that any and all holes will be filled and ground brought back to original contours, any and all trash found will be picked up,  fences and gates will be as found.  If you notice anything out of place or an issue, let them know.  Only bring friends if the owner agrees to it and make sure they are respectful of the property and rules the owner sets.  Treat the property as your own, and how you want your property treated.

 

Can be helpful to offer to help out (like bucking hay bales from the field to the barn), etc.  Above all, keep every word you give the owner.  Longtime friendships with these people will form, and it will open open other doors with his friends when word of your trustworthyness gets around.

 

On the other hand, if the above is not followed, word will get around even faster and you will be out of luck.

 

**EDIT**---Bottom line is -approach the owner in the same way you would want to be approached if someone wanted access to your property.

 

Good luck in securing permission.

Reading the advice above reinforces my decision to become a member of GPAA. I am proud to be associated with an organization that has people like Arthur Waugh as members. Thank you. Mitch Litrofsky

Mitch--THANK YOU for that, it is appreciated.