How to Pan for Gold in Indiana
When you think of gold prospecting, Indiana typically doesn't come to mind, and rightfully so because gold isn't a naturally occurring element in Indiana. The gold deposits that have been found in Indiana were deposited in the region thousands of years ago by drifting glaciers, according to the Indiana Geological Survey. Gold deposits are still found by some enthusiastic prospectors, though natural sediment deposits have been impeded throughout the years by construction of dams and reservoirs. Gold panning in Indiana can be performed with success once you know the right places to look.
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Instructions
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Obtain a permit for gold panning--if you plan on panning on state land in (and certain state forests)--or obtain written consent from a private landowner. Permits can be obtained from the Indiana Department of Transportation or local law enforcement agencies for state land. State forest permits can be obtained through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
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Buy a U.S. Geological Survey Quadrangle map of Morgantown and Beanblossom. The maps are available form the Indiana Geological Survey. These maps show the tributaries and perennial streams relative to gold prospecting interests. Typically, where streams change or converge from intermittent to perennial flows, gold sediment is more likely to be found. This is due to a steep drop in elevation and swirling flow that occurs in these areas.
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Sift through the sediment near bends in streams or along shoals where black sediment is prevalent--via the region most indicative of gold locations on the map. Use a gold pan and dip it into the sediment, then rock back and forth, looking for a yellowish color metal.
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Tips & Warnings
Ensure that you do not trespass onto private property while attempting to pan for gold in Indiana.
References
- Photo Credit orpailleur image by thierry planche from Fotolia.com
