|
||||
Metal Detecting Ethics: Golden Rules to Observe During Metal Detecting
Metal detecting is a fun hobby to have...but it's a hobby that can easily place you under arrest (with bail, don't worry) or the object of people's rage. To avoid both unfavorable consequences, keep in mind the following tips on metal detecting ethics:
ALWAYS ASK PERMISSION
Even if you personally know the landowner and are certain that the landowner is the generous and forgiving type, it's still important to obtain proper permission before letting your metal detector do its work. To safeguard both of your interests as well, a written consent is better than mere verbal sanction.
RESPECT MOTHER NATURE.
We humans are generously blessed by Mother Nature to live in such beauty. While it's okay to indulge in your hobby at woods, riverbanks, forests, and fields, do make sure that nothing you do will cause irreparable harm to any natural resources. The simple act of littering, by the way, is already an act against Mother Nature!
RESPECT HISTORICAL SITES.
Similarly, show proper respect to any site that's of historical significance. This includes but is not limited to buildings, parks, schools, ghost towns, and farm houses. We're not saying that you should completely avoid metal detecting in these sites, but rather, just make sure that you don't cause negligent destruction in your eagerness to come up with valuable findings.
NEVER LEAVE EXCAVATIONS UNFULFILLED.
Simply put, you should be responsible enough to take care of your own mess. Leave the site the way it appeared when you arrived. Leaving gaping holes in the ground in your wake is an act of outright inconsideration because these can cause accidents to other people.
IGNORANCE IS STILL NOT AN EXCUSE.
If you're planning to pursue metal detecting in unfamiliar territory, do make sure that you're aware of all pertinent and relevant laws, rules, and regulations. Even if you're willing to take the consequences of your actions, the damage you've unintentionally caused might be beyond repair.
THERE'S NO PLACE FOR JEALOUSY IN ANY HOBBY OR SPORT.
Don't let jealousy ruin your pleasure with metal detecting and your relationship with fellow metal detecting enthusiasts. If another individual comes up with better finds, just let it be; it's just not your day. Do not allow yourself to fall victim to envy if your companions have better equipment; just do your best, pray for luck, and fate shall do the rest.
DON'T CHEAT OR STEAL.
This is a rule that applies to all endeavors. Don't cheat or steal from your companions or landowners. Claim what's truly yours and give what's truly due to others!
