Montana Gold Claims

Recent Legislative and Regulatory Developments Impacting Small Mining Operations

Recent legislative and regulatory developments at the federal level have introduced significant changes to mining operations, particularly affecting small placer miners. Below is an overview of these changes, their current legal status, and their implications.

Federal Legislative Developments

Mining Regulatory Clarity Act of 2025 (H.R. 1366)

Purpose: This bill aims to provide clear guidelines for the location of multiple hardrock mining mill sites and establish the Abandoned Hardrock Mine Fund.

Status: Introduced in the House on February 14, 2025; currently under committee review.

Implications for Small Placer Miners: If enacted, the bill would clarify the legal framework for establishing mill sites, potentially simplifying the process for miners to set up necessary facilities. Additionally, the creation of the Abandoned Hardrock Mine Fund could lead to increased efforts in reclaiming and rehabilitating abandoned mine lands, indirectly benefiting active miners by improving overall environmental conditions.

Mining Waste, Fraud, and Abuse Prevention Act of 2025

Purpose: Introduced by Senator Ben Ray Luján, this legislation seeks to modernize the 1872 Mining Law by implementing reforms to prevent exploitation of public resources and ensure environmental protections.

Status: Introduced; awaiting further legislative action.

Implications for Small Placer Miners: The proposed reforms may introduce stricter environmental compliance requirements and oversight, which could impact operational procedures and increase compliance costs for small-scale miners.

Regulatory Updates from BLM and USFS

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) – Public Lands Rule

Overview: The BLM is implementing the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, which emphasizes balanced management of public lands, integrating conservation efforts with other land uses.

Implications for Small Placer Miners: Miners operating on BLM-managed lands may encounter new land health standards and conservation requirements, potentially affecting access and operational practices.

U.S. Forest Service (USFS) – Mining Regulations

Overview: The USFS has released the Final Environmental Impact Statement and Draft Record of Decision for the Stibnite Gold Project, reflecting updated procedures for approving mining operations.

Implications for Small Placer Miners: These developments may signal a shift towards more comprehensive environmental assessments and increased public involvement in the approval process for mining activities on National Forest lands.

Other Relevant Laws Affecting Small Mining Operations

Clean Water Act (CWA) and Section 404 Permitting

Overview: The Clean Water Act regulates the discharge of dredged or fill material into navigable waters, requiring small-scale miners using suction dredges or other mechanized methods to obtain permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Impact: Small miners may face additional permitting requirements and potential restrictions depending on their operations’ proximity to waterways.

Endangered Species Act (ESA) Compliance

Overview: Mining operations must ensure compliance with the ESA, particularly when operating in areas where endangered or threatened species are present.

Impact: If placer mining activities are deemed to impact critical habitats, additional mitigation measures may be required, potentially increasing operational costs and approval timelines.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Reviews

Overview: Any mining activity on federal lands that significantly affects the environment may require an Environmental Assessment (EA) or an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under NEPA.

Impact: NEPA reviews add regulatory oversight, extending approval timelines and requiring miners to engage with federal agencies and public stakeholders.

Conclusion

While some legislative initiatives are still pending, others have been enacted, bringing changes that could impact small placer miners in Montana and nationwide. It is crucial for miners to stay informed about these developments and proactively engage with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and adapt to the evolving legal landscape. Consulting with legal experts and industry organizations can also help navigate these complex regulations and maintain operational viability in an increasingly regulated mining environment.

Respecting Other Mining Claims: Guidelines for Ethical Gold Prospecting

 

In today’s high-stakes world of gold prospecting, where the price of gold has surged past $3000 per ounce, the lure of wealth can sometimes bring out behaviors reminiscent of a bygone Wild West era. With fortunes seemingly within reach, it’s more important than ever to uphold a standard of respect and ethical conduct when approaching mining claims—especially those that belong to someone else.

The Modern Gold Rush

Gold has long symbolized wealth, and its soaring price today has intensified interest in prospecting. The economic potential draws in both seasoned miners and hopeful newcomers, some of whom may be tempted to disregard established rights and boundaries. However, ethical prospecting is not just about following legal requirements; it’s also about maintaining community trust, preserving the integrity of the mining industry, and ensuring that the spirit of cooperation prevails over the chaos of a modern gold rush.

The Value of Respecting Mining Claims

Mining claims are not just plots of land—they represent hard work, legal rights, and often, historical legacies. Claim holders invest time, resources, and dedication into staking and maintaining their claims. Disrespecting these rights can lead to disputes, legal battles, and a breakdown of the mutual respect necessary for a thriving mining community. As the price of gold continues to climb, the potential for conflict increases, making it essential for prospectors to adopt a respectful and ethical approach.

Guidelines for Respecting Mining Claims

Whether you’re approaching someone else’s claim for prospecting or have been granted permission to mine on their land in exchange for services, adhering to a set of clear rules can help ensure a positive and lawful interaction. Here’s a comprehensive list of best practices:

1. Do Your Homework:

Research the claim thoroughly before arriving. Understand its boundaries, history, and any legal documentation associated with it. Knowledge of the claim’s status is critical to avoid inadvertent trespassing.

2. Seek Permission in Advance:

Never assume access. Always contact the claim owner or holder ahead of time and secure written permission if you plan to enter or work on their property. Clear, documented consent is the foundation of respectful prospecting.

3. Understand Local Regulations:

Familiarize yourself with the mining laws and regulations in the area. Local and federal rules are in place to protect both the environment and the rights of claim holders. Compliance is not optional—it’s a legal obligation.

4. Respect Property Boundaries:

Clearly identify and adhere to the physical limits of the claim. Avoid venturing onto adjacent claims or areas that are not explicitly included in your permitted zone. Use mapping tools and markers if necessary to ensure you stay within designated boundaries.

5. Communicate Openly and Honestly:

If you encounter any issues or uncertainties while prospecting, maintain open communication with the claim owner. A transparent dialogue helps prevent misunderstandings and builds mutual trust.

6. Provide Fair Compensation for Services:

If you are prospecting on someone’s claim as a favor or in exchange for services, agree on the terms beforehand. Whether it’s a share of the finds or a fee for your work, a fair deal benefits both parties and prevents future disputes.

7. Leave No Trace:

Respect the environment by ensuring that you do not leave behind any debris or cause unnecessary damage. A clean and well-maintained site not only benefits the landowner but also preserves the claim’s long-term viability.

8. Acknowledge the Legacy:

Recognize that many mining claims have historical significance. Treat the land with the same care and respect you would for a cultural or historical site. This mindset enriches the prospecting experience and honors the pioneers who once worked the same ground.

9. Be Prepared to Step Back:

If you’re asked to leave or if any dispute arises, be prepared to step back immediately. Maintaining a respectful and professional demeanor, even in challenging situations, preserves your reputation and prevents escalation.

The Impact of an Inflated Gold Price

With gold trading at record highs, every ounce mined is potentially more lucrative. However, this economic reality also fuels competitive and sometimes aggressive behaviors. The temptation to bypass protocols can lead to illegal trespassing and contentious encounters. By following the guidelines above, prospectors not only protect themselves from legal repercussions but also contribute to a more respectful and orderly environment—a modern code of conduct that stands in stark contrast to the lawlessness often depicted in Wild West lore.

Conclusion

Ethical gold prospecting is about more than the immediate rush of striking it rich; it’s about preserving a legacy of respect, legality, and cooperation. In an era where gold’s value has soared, the pressure to cut corners can be immense. Yet, by observing established rules and showing genuine respect for mining claims, prospectors can ensure that their endeavors are both profitable and principled. This balanced approach fosters a healthier, more sustainable mining community that benefits everyone involved.

By adhering to these guidelines, modern prospectors can navigate the challenges of a booming gold market while honoring the rights and efforts of their fellow claim holders—ensuring that the spirit of fair play and mutual respect continues to shine as brightly as the gold itself.

Prospector's wishing to visit my claims are welcome, however written permission is required.    

I do not tolerate claim jumpers and preachers. Mineral trespass is a felony offense and violators will be prosecuted.

Thank you for you understanding. 

Marlene Affeld

 509-389-2606

Please see my claims for sale or lease.

 

Montana Gold Claims - For Sale or Lease

If you own a gold claim, you own your own private bank. Gold is going to levels previously unimaginable.

Gold Price Hits Record High — Analysts Don't Expect It To Stop There!

• Summary

• Gold has risen around 26% so far in 2025
• Gold logged 25 record highs this year
• Dollar weakness helps to spur buying

Given today's economy, there is something very comforting about having real gold in ones' safe... security personified... beautiful, tangible gold, that you can actually hold in your hands.

Essentially, the best hedge against both wild inflation and deep depression is the time honored, inflation-proof, depression-proof, store of value...Gold.

Unlike paper money or stocks - gold requires no CEO or board of directors - it is self backed - valuable in itself - an actual wealth that can be found on/in the ground.

There couldn’t be a better time to invest in a real gold property.

Available For Sale, Lease or Joint Venture: a premium group of non-patented placer gold claims located in Cedar Creek Mining District, Mineral County, Montana.

The claims are located in the historically proven gold-bearing area of Oregon Creek known as the Big Flat: the location of one of the richest gold strikes in Mineral County, Montana. The gold from this district was notably fine; some gold that was 982 fine was recovered and it was not unusual for it to be as high as 960 to 970 fine  (22 Karat). (Lyden, 1948, p. 102).

Big Flat - Oregon Gulch - Mineral County, Montana

The area known as the Big Flat is located in Cedar Creek Mining District, Mineral County, Montana. Broad and relatively level, this expansive flat stands out in the rugged, mountainous topography of Mineral County. historically attracting gold prospectors due to its favorable conditions for placer gold deposition.

The region’s unique geological profile, combined with the hydrology of Oregon Creek—which flows directly through the Big Flat—contributes to its rich placer gold potential.

Oregon Creek is a tributary of Cedar Creek and cuts through Big Flat, providing a natural flow path that has shaped the geology of the area. The creek’s moderate flow across the flat terrain promotes sediment deposition, allowing heavy materials like placer gold to settle out and concentrate in the creek bed and nearby alluvial layers.

This dynamic, combined with the unique bedrock characteristics in Oregon Creek, creates a prime prospecting environment for placer miners. In some sections, Oregon Creek has eroded down to bedrock, exposing fractures and crevices within the metamorphic rock, which consists largely of gneiss and schist
.
This bedrock along Oregon Creek, commonly exposed in certain riverbanks and concealed in other parts, is essential in trapping gold. The bedrock’s fractured, layered nature—especially in metamorphic rocks like schist and gneiss—creates natural crevices and traps where heavy gold particles settle. Oregon Creek’s flow patterns further aid this concentration by naturally depositing gold in low-energy zones, such as inside bends or sheltered areas around large rocks and riffles.

In the Big Flat, bedrock is often concealed beneath layers of alluvial gravel, clay, and sand, forming an overburden that varies in thickness. In areas where bedrock is accessible, prospectors target its cracks and pockets directly, as these serve as natural gold traps. In other parts of Big Flat, where the overburden is thicker, test holes are necessary to reach the bedrock and assess gold concentrations within its fissures.

The combination of Oregon Creek’s flow, the Big Flat’s expansive terrain, and the favorable bedrock characteristics makes this region a highly attractive site for placer gold recovery. The interaction between slow-moving creek water and fractured metamorphic bedrock allows gold to accumulate in concentrated deposits, especially within the creek bed, inside bends, and along areas where bedrock pockets and fractures provide natural resting points for gold particles. This unique environment provides promising opportunities for prospectors and is a key area within the Cedar Creek Mining District for placer gold extraction.

All claims listed for sale have been sampled and researched. Only that ground meeting complete satisfaction and bearing realistic potential for gold were acquired. Several tenures comprise ground not before thoroughly or seriously worked for placer. Many of these locations comprise potential tertiary benches or buried channels, suitable for smaller-scale operations.

Whether a major commercial mining company, a serious junior mining concern, a recreational miner, the weekend prospector, or individuals simply wishing to enjoy the out-of-doors while trying their hand at unearthing lustrous treasures, whether using a pan, sluice, searching with a detector or employing other recovery methods, properties hereunder listed, hold excellent potential. The claims may be purchased individually or as a group. Group prices may apply.

LOOKING FOR NEW GROUND? 

1,200 ACRES OF PLACER GOLD CLAIMS

20 to 160 Acres Each

For Sale or Lease

NW MONTANA

Based on information documented by state and federal agencies, geologists, historians, and our own prospecting experience, we believe the Oregon Gulch Project represents a unique opportunity for recovering substantial quantities of gold within a proven gold-bearing trend that boasts impressive records of past gold production. We invite you to consider the mining properties offered for sale or lease in the Big Flat area of Oregon Gulch, Mineral County, Montana. 

Owner financing available 

10% Down – Balance over 10 years

No Credit Check, No Banks, No Interest

Non-Patented

Serious Inquiries Only

509-389-2606

[email protected]

Is an unpatented mining claim considered real property?

Answer: Yes.

The discovery of a valuable mineral deposit within the limits of a mining claim located on public lands in conformance with state and Federal statutes validates the claim; and the locator acquires an exclusive possessory interest in the mineral deposits within the claim. Further, the claim is property in the fullest sense of that term; and may be sold, transferred, mortgaged, and inherited without infringing any right or title of the United States...so long as he complies with the provisions of the mining laws. United States Supreme Court case of Wilbur v. U.S. ex rel Krushnic, 280 US 306 (1930).

The owner of an unpatented claim is entitled to mine, remove and sell all valuable mineral deposits within his claim boundaries provided he follows the regulations for Surface Management under 43 CFR 3809, and is entitled to such surface rights necessary for mining operations.

You may own a claim if you are a citizen of the United States, a minor who has reached the age of discretion, a corporation, and non-citizens (aliens) who have declared their intention to become a citizen. (43 CFR 3832.1)

Mining claims are a tangible asset and show your rights to all interests in minerals in the claim boundary. A mining claim can be sold, traded, leased, gifted, willed, used as collateral, or transferred in part or in its entirety, just like any other real property. Ownership will be transfered by a quit claim deed and recorded with the State Office County Recorder and the Bureau of Land Managment (BLM) using a quitclaim deed which is a recordable conveyance.

If you have been following the price of gold, you know it is on the move. 

The Big Flat Project comprises multiple unpatented mining claims (1120 acres + or -) located in Mineral County, Montana. The claims collectively encompass the potential lode sources for the placer workings. The property is located within a historically productive gold district. The aim of the project is to locate, define, and exploit these prolific placer deposits.

Placer Gold:

• A placer deposit is a concentration of a natural material that has accumulated in unconsolidated sediments of a stream bed, beach, or residual deposit. Gold derived by weathering or other processes from lode deposits is likely to accumulate in placer deposits because of its weight and resistance to corrosion. In addition, its characteristically sun-yellow color makes it easily and quickly recognizable even in very small quantities.

Oregon Creek, which cascades through the claims, is a primary tributary of Cedar Creek. Oregon Creek has been a significant proven producer. On one section of the creek (part of the Big Flat Project) history records report that on several claims, men equipped each with only a gold pan and shovel were pulling out an ounce or more to the pan.

The Big Flat Project spans over 10.3 miles of Oregon Creek and its tributaries. Oregon Creek ranges from 6 to 10 ft. wide, but in some areas can reach up to 20 ft. The depth of the creek ranges from 8-10 inches in the shallow areas, and up to 3-to-20 feet or more in-depth. There are lots of benches, gravel bars, river rocks, waterfalls, and exposed bedrock in the creek: all of which trap gold.

The gold pan or miner's pan of old was a shallow sheet-iron vessel with sloping sides and flat bottom used to wash gold-bearing gravel or other material containing heavy minerals. The process of washing material in a pan referred to as "panning," is the simplest, most commonly used, and least expensive method for a prospector to separate gold from the silt, sand, and gravel of the stream deposits. It is a tedious, back-breaking job, and only with practice does one become proficient in the operation. Thankfully, technology finally caught up with our gold fever and brought us modern methods and equipment! 

The gold previously produced from Oregon Creek was mined with very little mechanized equipment: the miners of yesterday did not have access to sophisticated methods of gold detection and recovery. Geologists suggest that the early prospectors recovered less than ten percent of the available gold. Oregon Creek remains relatively unworked for almost 150 years.

Gold is recovered from stream and bench gravels located along the three creeks and their tributaries. The gold originates from veins associated with igneous dikes crosscutting the northward extension of the Bitterroots. 

Location and access is a concern for any mining operation. A valuable asset of the Big Flat Project is the existence of an established network of maintained roads and trails. Located in the Lolo National Forest on United States Forest Service land, the claims are easily accessible via USFS roads. Easy access is a key feature of the Big Flat Project and one that not only enhances the value of the property, but increases the ability to remove minerals with a higher profit margin.

Gold is present at a grade sufficient to have a strong effect on the economics of an excavation project. These claims could contain world-class mineral deposits. Further study, sampling and drilling will likely prove major gold reserves.

Offered For Lease or Joint-Venture - Investor Inquiries Invited.

With the price of gold holding at a strong high, participation in the Big Flat Project presents a unique investment opportunity for a visionary entrepreneur.

Historical Notes 

This map, courtesy of the Mineral County Historical Society, dates to about the time the USFS took over forest management (1906) -  It is interesting to note, that as early as 1906, there were several established mines within the area known today as the "Big Flat."

“The best place to find a new mine is in the shadow of an old mine”

Strike On Cedar Creek Draws Miners To The Area

On December 10, 1869, the news hit the major papers across Montana and Idaho, and the New Northwest paper out of Deer Lodge City, MT read:

"Big Mines Reported Struck! Such a time! We are living on excitement here entirely—Missoula has been wild for the last week—stampedes, charivari’s [sic] and I scarcely know what else. First a noise for four nights—and such a noise, thirteen boiler shops and a thousand gongs would be as nothing compared to it. Louis Barrette, one of the discoverers was in town to-day and had some of the gold with him, and it looks much like the gold from old Kootenai, coarse and well washed, and of a dark yellow color."

Cedar Creek Stampede

The Cedar Creek Chinese Report on Excavations at 24MN249 & 24MN262

The Montana Department Of Environmental Quality, reports. “The Cedar Creek Mining District, known primarily for its placer deposits, encompasses Cedar, Quartz, and Trout Creeks, rising near the crest of the northward extension of the Bitterroot Mountain range. The creeks flow northeastward to enter the Clark Fork River above Superior (Sahinen 1935).

The placers were first claimed in 1869 by French Canadian, Louis A. Barrette, and have seen continuous production since then. By 1935 the district had yielded at least $2,000,000 in gold and perhaps as much as $10,000,000. Annual output between 1869 and 1935 ranges from $1,000 to $50,000: with recovery primarily through sluicing and hydraulic methods.

Cedar Creek's history and gold production insights are especially intriguing. Many miners, prospectors, and geologists have long speculated: the gold recovered from Cedar Creek originates in Oregon Gulch.

Gold Production In Mineral County, Montana

The US Geological Survey ranks Montana as number 7 in gold production in the US and reports the state contains 31 gold mining districts, including the Cedar Creek Mining District, located in Mineral County. Total state gold production from the 19th century to 1968 was 17.8 million ounces, but considerable amounts of gold have been mined since (Bergendahl and Koshmann, 1968).

Situated in the western section of Montana, Mineral County is bounded by Missoula and Sanders counties and the state of Idaho. Most of the county topography is quite rugged with elevations ranging from 2500 to 8000 feet above sea level.

Located along the Idaho border, Mineral County was formed in 1914 by a partition of Missoula County. The county derives its name from the diverse array of minerals including lead, copper, zinc, silver, and gold located in its mountainous terrain. The county has a rich historical heritage of mineral discoveries in the late 1800s. Gold and silver were commercially produced from mines located in Mineral County. All gold mined before 1914 from the area now included in Mineral County is credited to Missoula County.

Almost all of the entire gold output in Mineral County came from placer deposits along the creeks that drain the east side of the Bitterroot Mountains and that flow into Clark Fork River between Tarkio and Superior. The most productive placers, and the only ones that produced more than 10,000 ounces of gold, were those along Cedar and Trout Creeks and their tributaries.

Estimates by Lyden (1948, p. 98-103) suggest that placer production before 1904 may have exceeded 120,000 ounces. From 1904 through 1956 the county produced placer gold valued at about $665,000 (32,175 ounces), most of which were produced before 1942.

The gold recovered from the placers was considered to be exceptionally rich, ranging from $19.75 to $20.45 with a standard price of $20.67 per ounce.

In 1875 it was reported that the various drifts were yielding as high as $300 to $600 to a set of timbers, and that about $50,000 in gold was recovered each year from 1871 to 1873. The fineness was reported as ranging from .950 to .982 (Sahinen 1935; Lyden 1948).

Surface Geology

The surficial geology of the area was created by Glacial Lake Missoula about 15,000 years ago. The entire flow of the Clark Fork River backed up behind an ice dam, and the glacial lake reached an elevation of about 4350 feet. When the ice dam failed, Glacial Lake Missoula emptied through the Clark Fork Valley in just a few days, releasing the greatest flood of known geologic record. This process occurred repeatedly, each time resulting in colossal floods. Exposed bedrock and sedimentary deposits provide evidence of the lake in the Missoula Valley, as do layers of lakebed deposits alternating with river sediments exposed just west of Missoula (Alt and Hyndman 1986).

Climate and Vegetation

Winters last from four to six months in this very mountain-ous region, and snow depths range from three teet to fourteen feet. Summer months provide only comfor,tablywarm weather, and the sum-mer nights are cold. Rainfall in this region is higher than inany other part of Montana, ranging fourteen to thirty inches per year.

Conifers cover all of the area, even growing in groves on the valley floor. White pine, yellow pine, Ponderosa, tamarack, fir, spruce, with aspen and cottonwood on the creek bottoms, are dominant. Grass is not abundant, being confined to stream bottoms and open meadowss. Since almost all of the region has been scourged by forest fires in the last fifty years, brush, saplings, and deadfalls prevail everywhere. Thousands of acres of lush huckleberry bushes are found 0n the slopes and ridgetops.

Local Resources: 

• The claims are located 25 miles up the mountain via Cedar Creek Road from the town of Superior, MT.
• Superior is situated on I-90 for immediate access to airports Spokane, WA and Missoula, Mt. Missoula is an excellent resource for equipment, parts and service.
• Local heavy equipment service is available in Superior, MT as is secure storage for winter repairs and staging.
• Superior, MT is a small rural community with a hospital, post office, grocery, lumber yard, and hardware store. There is a local airport for small aircraft.

This group of claims lends itself to a commercial mining operation. There is excellent road access – In 2018, Cedar Creek Road (USFS 320) was resurfaced and rerouted in and is in prime condition for easy access. The above claims are a stellar mineral prospect with the Hard Times No. 1 as the heart of the exploration area. 

Mineral County continues to be a site of active gold exploration. Based on geology, it is predictable that several large undeveloped and undiscovered gold deposits will be found, identified and developed in the future.

For Further Information, Contact:

Marlene A. Affeld

Oregon Gulch Gold

PO Box 70 

Saint Regis, Montana 59866

509-389-2606

[email protected]

The description information provided above is as accurate and complete as possible and presented in good faith. While I have made every effort to provide as complete historical notes as possible, various records are subject to interpretation. Therefore, I make no warranty, implied or expressed, as to the completeness or accuracy of the furnished information. As with any non-patented mining transaction, the lessee or purchaser is advised to perform research and their own due diligence.

Locality information is for reference purposes only. Please do not attempt to visit any sites listed without first ensuring that you have the permission of the land and/or mineral rights holder for access and that you are aware of all safety precautions necessary. 

• Please be aware that mining claims are federally protected.
  
• Anyone found prospecting a mining claim without express consent from the owner can be charged with criminal trespass and theft.
  
• Our properties are closely monitored.
  
• Please contact us in advance before visiting any of our gold properties. 509-389-2606

Important Notice: Properties offered for sale hereunder, are for mining purposes only and do not include ownership of surface rights or the right to use the surface for residential or recreational purposes.

All claims are “Unpatented” mining claims, which means you will own the mineral rights to the property but not the actual land. The land belongs to the federal government (i.e.; the American People) and is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and/or the United States Forest Service (USFS). According to the BLM, a mining claim is “a parcel of land for which the claimant has asserted a right of possession and the right to develop and extract a discovered, valuable, mineral deposit. This right does not include exclusive surface rights.”

Bonanza Gulch Placer Gold Claim For Sale Or Lease

Bonanza Gulch Placer - Federal Mining Claim

Bonanza Gulch – Overview – 

The Bonanza Gulch streambed is composed of repeating sequences of steps, cascading waterfalls, plunge pools formed by resistant bedrock, boulders and wood debris. The stream flows year-round down the steep gradient through confined channels directly coupled to hill slopes. The slopes support a relatively thick cover of timber. 

Bedrock in this portion of the Bitterroot Mountains has been assigned by Ross (1963), Northwest quarter geologic map of the Belt Series to the Wallace Formation. The formation is composed of quartzite, argillite, limestone, dolomite, and a wide range of mixture of these rock types. The most diagnostic characteristic of the formation as a whole is the presence of calcite, ferro- dolomite, or low-iron ankerite, or a mixture of these minerals. A thickness of about 10,000 feet of Wallace Formation is exposed in the Dry Creek valley approximately 7 miles north of this site. Colors range from white to dark gray with shades of reddish to yellowish-brown; typical of weathered surfaces.”

 

Bonanza Gulch Placer Mining Claim 

Legacy Serial No. MTMMC 221586

MLRS Serial No. MT101881903 

S ½ of N ½ Section 2

T 15 N, R 28 W Correct legal 

Mineral County, Montana

160 Acres 

Geological Notes Re: Yellow Bucket - Bonanza Gulch  

(The Yellow Bucket site is is located on a bench adjacent to the Miller's Bonanza Lode Mine shown on the map below as the Hartman - approx. 1904.)

Physiography and General Geology: On September 11, 1971, John B. Burleson, mining engineer, Regional Office, Missoula, Montana, accompanied by Geoffrey F. Wilson, resource assistant, USFS Superior Ranger District, conducted a mineral examination of the Yellow Bucket placer mining claim, noting in their report (No. 2810-May 15, 1972) “ The Yellow Bucket Placer Mining Claim is located in the vicinity of the confluence of Bonanza, Missoula, and Oregon Gulches; roughly 2 miles north of Oregon Peak. The area is mountainous with a maximum altitude of 6,863 feet at Mink Peak. The slopes support a relatively thick cover of timber. The area of the claim is generally sloping, however, the relief above is quite extreme.

Bedrock in this portion of the Bitterroot Mountains has been assigned by Ross (1963), Northwest quarter geologic map of the Belt Series to the Wallace Formation. The formation is composed of quartzite, argillite, limestone, dolomite, and a wide range of mixture of these rock types. The most diagnostic characteristic of the formation as a whole is the presence of calcite, ferro-dolomite, or low-iron ankerite, or a mixture of these minerals. A thickness of about 10,000 feet of Wallace Formation is exposed in the Dry Creek valley approximately 7 miles north of this site. Colors range from white to dark gray with shades of reddish to yellowish-brown; typical of weathered surfaces.”

The 1971 report references the mining developments at that time, stating, “Placer gravel is being washed from two, hand-dug pits located about 150 due east of the cabin and Oregon Gulch. Water is conveyed to these pits by approximately 400 feet of 2-inch plastic pipe which then moves the screened gravel 150 feet through 10-pipe to a sluice box at the water’s edge of Oregon Gulch.”

Mineral Values: In the 1971 evaluation of mineral values, the USFS report advises, “ Seven pans of gravel were washed. The material was taken from two, hand-dug pits as indicated by the claimants. Montana Laboratory Company, Philipsburg, Montana, reported 145.39 milligrams of free gold in the concentrated black sands saved from the seven pans of gravel. This gold calculates to a value of $11.71 per yard, assuming a fineness of 900 and a $49 gold value.” 

Note: The current price of gold – ($2,550.00) is considerably higher than the 1971 value of $49 per ounce. Do the math and you will understand why we are so excited. 

Owner financing available - 10 percent down, 10 years, No interest.

Serious inquiries only.

Sale Price: $223,000.00

Contact: Marlene Affeld

[email protected]

509-389-2606

              

Unlock the Potential of the Oregon Gulch Project: A Golden Opportunity

The 1200 +/- acre Oregon Gulch Project, situated within the rich mineral landscape of Mineral County, Montana, offers investors a rare opportunity to tap into a lucrative gold deposit. This project, located in a historically significant mining region, is poised to become a high-potential gold production asset. Whether you are looking to diversify your portfolio or secure a hedge against economic volatility, the Oregon Gulch Project stands out as a strategic and timely investment.

Historical Significance and Rich Geology

The Oregon Gulch Project is located on Oregon Creek, part of the renowned Cedar Creek Mining District in western Montana. Mining activities in the Cedar Creek area date back to the 1800s when prospectors discovered rich deposits of placer gold. This area is known for its high-yield gold, it remains under-explored by modern standards.

Mineral County’s geology is rich in placer deposits, formed by the erosion of gold-bearing veins from nearby mountain ranges. The unique topography and sedimentation in the region have created multiple gold-bearing layers, making it one of the most promising placer mining zones in the district.

Favorable Market Conditions

The timing for an investment in the Oregon Gulch Project could not be better. As of September 2024, the price of gold has soared to $2,600 per ounce, driven by global economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures, and de-dollarization efforts by major economies like China and Russia. This unprecedented rise in gold prices enhances the value of gold mining projects as they offer not only steady production but also a long-term hedge against inflation and market instability.

With gold projected to continue its upward trend, reaching potential highs of $2,800 by 2025, according to market analysts, the Oregon Gulch Project provides an investor with a highly lucrative asset in a time of increasing gold demand  .

Low Maintenance Costs and High ROI

One of the benefits of owning a mining claim is the relatively low annual maintenance cost. This means that once the claims are secured, the carrying cost of the asset is minimal compared to other real estate or development projects.

Modern Technology Boosts Recovery

In the early 1900s, gold recovery rates were often limited due to inefficient methods and rudimentary tools. Recovery rates in placer mining hovered around 40-50%, meaning much of the valuable gold was left behind. However, modern placer mining technologies, such as gravity separation and advanced sluicing systems, have dramatically increased recovery rates to over 90%. These advancements not only maximize the yield but also reduce environmental impacts by minimizing waste  .

The Oregon Gulch Project, therefore, stands to benefit greatly from modern recovery techniques, allowing investors to extract higher quantities of gold from previously overlooked deposits.

Strategic Location and Accessibility

The Oregon Gulch claims are located 25 miles from Superior, Montana, accessed via the USFS Cedar Creek Road 320. The easy accessibility of the site, combined with its proximity to key infrastructure, makes it an ideal location for mining operations..

The Oregon Gulch Project: A Long-Term Investment

Gold has historically served as a hedge against economic downturns, inflation, and currency devaluation. As investors seek safe-haven assets during turbulent times, the demand for gold continues to rise. The Oregon Gulch Project offers a solid opportunity to capitalize on this demand, with gold prices at an all-time high and expected to climb further.

For those looking to diversify their portfolios or secure a tangible, appreciating asset, the Oregon Gulch Project presents a unique opportunity. With modern mining technology, favorable market conditions, low maintenance costs, and a rich geological history, this project is an ideal investment for anyone seeking exposure to the gold mining sector.

Take advantage of this golden opportunity today—invest in the Oregon Gulch Project and secure your stake in Montana..

Sampling For Gold And Silver

Busy planning for next season's exploration activities in Oregon Gulch. 

Samples - Bonanza Gulch 2020

 

Here is an article I saved, you may find informative.

Sampling 101 – Precious metals by ghart | Apr 3, 2013 | Exploration Techniques

So how do they sample rocks for gold and silver? Gold, silver and platinum are categorized as precious metals. This means they are highly valuable with a high demand. This translates into a high monetary value for relatively small amount of the metal (Gold/Platinum ~ $1500/ounce, Silver ~$25/ounce). In addition to the high monetary value, nature only supplies precious metals in small amounts (usually) which results in some difficulty in sampling at all stages.

Of particular problem to precious metals is called the nugget effect. This is where the tiny amount of precious metal may be rich in one part of a rock, and completely absence in another – it is never evenly distributed, Nature doesn’t like making things easy. Overcoming the nugget effect typically means larger sample sizes or targetted samples based on indicator minerals. Tiny gold in a core sample - nugget effect - Indicator minerals are a mineral associated with the precious metal but much more common in the rocks.

Typical indicator minerals are referred to as sulfides and include Pyrite (FeS2), arsenopyrite (FeAsS), Pyrrhotite (Fe1-xS), Chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) amongst others. These are minerals which are of no to little economic value in small quantities however the do indicate the potential presence of a more valuable precious metal. A very useful property any iron sulfides (contain iron (Fe)) is that they rust, leaving a nice rusty stain to see. All samples are then assayed for the precious metal.

The sample is pulverized into a powder, mixed to distribute any precious metal evenly, then divided down to a small manageable size for assaying. A 1 kg sample will end up with only a 30g or 50g sample size. Without proper mixing, the nugget effect can be greatly enhanced leading to either very negative results to over reporting of the precious metal content. various techniques are used for assaying specific minerals, I wont go into that here.

The end result is a report on the amount of precious metal in your sample of rock from which you can extrapolate potential value to proceed or move your exploration elsewhere.

Stage one sampling

Stage one sampling occurs at the outcrop level, these are bedrock (not boulders) exposures accessible with no to minimal excavation. A quick way to see if a rock isn’t just a large boulder is to place your foot on it and hit it (not your foot) with a hammer. If it vibrates its likely a boulder, if not likely outcrop. Looking for a nice rusty rock, with the proper indicator mineral, hammer off a chunk a little larger than your fist. Do the same thing in another section of the rock, rinse repeat.

The more samples you take, the more representative it is. The more samples will also narrow down where the precious metal is depending on the amount, nature and ratios of indicator minerals which result in a positive gold showing when assayed. Molybdenum / pyrite rich hand sample

Stage two sampling  - 2 bladed saw cutting channel sample

Stage two sampling, in theory, provides a more reliable indication of precious metal value.

Channel sampling uses a rock saw to cut two deep cuts forming a channel approximately 2 inches apart and 4-5 inches deep. The channel is cut perpendicular to any structure (across the vein) if present. using chisels and hammers, the channel rock between the two cuts is then removed/broken from the rock. Length of samples are determined by rock type, mineralization and localized constraints to precious metal mineralization. Since these samples tend to be larger, and are cut from solid rock, the resulting sample tends to be “fresh” allowing for an easier indicator metal determination and lessen potential contamination from other rocks above them.

Stage three sampling

The most widely reported form of rock sampling comes from drill core. A diamond drill is use to produce a drill core of varying size. This cylindrical peice of rock from deeper in a deposit tends to be untouched by surface action and uncontaminated from materials above. Drill core is usually drilled at an angle through the deposit so length of a mineralized “zone” in core does not correspond to the actual width of the deposit. Core is examined for indicator minerals, mineralized zones, geological structures and whatever else can be learned from raw untouched rock. For sampling, the core is split, cut with a rock saw, in half – half stays with the core for future reference (43-101 compliance rules dictate this must happen). The other half is bagged and sent toan assay lab for processing like the other samples. Drill core - samples where core halved

Related articles

 

Barber Gulch - Placer Gold Claim - History Revisited

 

Barber Gulch Placer Mining Claim
Serial No. MT101881902
Legacy Serial No. MMC221585
SE 1/4 Section 25, T16N, R28 W, and SW ¼ of PB 67, T16N, R27W
Mineral County, Montana
160 Acres

Oregon Gulch Historical Notes:

Oregon Gulch Research Notes: Updated March 6th, 2024

Mineral County Historical Society and the Mineral County County Library.

• Gold was first discovered on Cedar Creek in 1869 - however it was not until 1910 that production began in earnest in Oregon Gulch in the area known as the Big Flat. 
• In 1910, both the Big Flat Mining Company and the Kansas City Commercial Company were operating in Oregon Gulch. The amount of gold they were recovering was impressive. 
• Big Flat Mining Company (Also known as the Oregon Gulch Big Flat Mining Company - Incorporated October 2, 1903

The average price of gold in 1910 was $18.97. The gold recovered from the Oregon Gulch placers was considered to be exceptionally rich, ranging from $19.75 to $20.45 with a standard price of $20.67 per ounce.

Using an average extraction exceeding $1,000.00 in gold per day, as reported by the Missoula newspaper, equals to gold recovery of more than 45 ounces per day.

Do the math! An average production of 50 ounces per day, at todays price of $2,680.00 equals #120,600.00 per day in gold production gross income. 

Non-Patented  

Cedar Creek Mining District

Historical records note, "The gold recovered from the placers was considered to be exceptionally rich, ranging from $19.75 to $20.45 with a standard price of $20.67 per ounce. In 1875 it was reported that the various drifts were yielding as high as $300 to a set of timber, and that about $50,000 in gold was recovered each year from 1871 to 1873. The fineness was reported as ranging from .950 to .982 (Sahinen 1935; Lyden 1948).

Each of the creeks has several notable tributaries for which some information is available.

Oregon Gulch and Snowshoe Gulch have both been significant producers along Cedar Creek. In 1875, one company on Snowshoe Gulch grossed $9,200 in 10 weeks with nine men. The net profit for the owners was $4,600, with an additional two to three thousand dollars stolen from the sluices. Windfall Creek, a tributary of Trout Creek, is considered to be the largest producer of placer gold in the district. The "Miller Ground" claim on Windfall Creek was reported to have yielded gold valued at $150,000 by 1919. Tucker Gulch is an important tributary of Quartz Creek, although production along Quartz Creek probably did not exceed $100,000 (Lyden 1948)."

The initial rush on Cedar Creek, especially on Oregon Gulch was so great that a hundred miners staked out 200 claims within six months of the initial discoveries in 1869. Mining camps arose and were abandoned quickly as the focus of placering shifted around the district. The population of the district rose upwards of 10,000 by some estimates. In 1870, Forest City, on Cedar Creek itself, reached a population of 7,000 and was a wholesale commercial center for many towns in the area including Missoula. The success of the district prompted publication for three years of "The Missoula and Cedar Creek Pioneer" newspaper. The paper was then moved to Missoula and its name changed to the Missoulian (Smith 1899; Rowe 1911b; Lyden 1948; Wolle 1963).

The gold is recovered from stream and bench gravels located along the three creeks and their tributaries. The gold originates from veins associated with igneous dykes crosscutting the northward extension of the Bitterroots. Chalcopyrite is the principal ore material, and also carries copper and silver in small amounts (Sahinen 1935).

BOUNDARIES OF THE DISTRICT

Sahinen (1935) locates the district as encompassing Cedar, Quartz and Trout Creeks and their tributaries, which originate near the crest of the northwestward extension of the Bitterroot Range. The creeks flow northeastward to the Clark Fork River.

HISTORIES OF SELECTED MINES

Although Sahinen (1935) and Lyden (1948) both note that some lode mining has been conducted in the district, no mention of specific mines occurs in the literature. Lode mining appears to have been generally confined to the period between 1915 and 1919, inclusive. Lode production at this time is estimated at less than $500,000 and included copper, silver and gold (Sahinen 1935; Lyden 1948).

The Barber Gulch Claim is located approximately 25 miles from Superior, Montana in a pristine wilderness environment. Majestic beauty, abundant wildlife, and great gold; what more could one ask for?

There are enormous tailing piles, evidence from all the work done in the gulch by the early miners. Every season's snow and major melt over the past hundreds of years has carried rich new material into the canyon, creating the potential for rich streambed deposits. Massive boulders and extensive exposed bedrock in shallow water make the Barber Gulch Gold Placer Claim a dredger's dream.

 

Gold is recovered from the stream bed and bench gravels located along the entire length of the claim. The gold originates from veins associated with igneous dikes that crosscut the northward extension of the Bitterroot Mountains. Chalcopyrite is the predominant ore material, quartz is plentiful. Copper and silver, in lesser amounts have also been found.

There is no way to find out how many miners actually worked in Oregon Gulch as all buildings burned in the fires. One report noted 28 miners were in the Big Flat Mining camp at the onset of the fire. We have only these snippets from old publications to look to for information: little physical evidence remains of the miners who lived and lost their lives in America's Worst Wildfire - The Big Burn of 1910.  

There is, however evidence of parts and pieces of old mining equipment, etc. but one has to assume that anything that did not burn, and could be hauled off, was salvaged years ago. References to the Kansas City Commercial Company are sparse throughout historical records. In 1910 records indicate the Kansas City Commercial Company held 537 acres under claim. Records indicate the Kansas City Commercial Company was actively mining the Big Flat until their dredge operations were consumed by the 1910 firestorm.

During the 2023 mining season, hidden by decades of brush and vegetation, we found the original bucket from the dredge operation.

No references can be found of their operations after that date. The fire came over the mountains from Idaho and into Cedar Creek basin, the paper reported. It continued: "The fire is coming down Cedar gulch and is reinforced by a huge blaze from Oregon gulch. "The Cedar... fire has already destroyed the Amador mining property and the Kansas City Commercial company's dredging plant with the exception of the dredge itself. Two charred bodies were found on the summit by firefighters returning to Iron Mountain from Oregon gulch. "If a heavy wind should arise in the direction of Iron Mountain, the fire from Cedar... may become... bad... It has reduced the Amador mine to a smoldering heap and consumed... the Big Flat Mining Company’s plant in Oregon gulch..." W.S. Clifford and Joe Shinnick had passed through the fiery Cedar area and shared their experiences with the newspaper: "They were members of a pack outfit which was composed of eight men and 27 horses. They went through Oregon gulch on their way into Idaho and at the summit met a courier who warned them back. "The fires came quickly. Before the party could get out, the horses had been lost in the fire and the two boys cut off from their comrades. They don't know what became of the six men who were with them. Clifford and Shinnick got out through Oregon gulch into Cedar.

There they stayed at the Kansas City Commercial company plant until they were routed out to help fight fire there. "When the fire had passed, they came down the creek to Iron Mountain..." In another article about the Cedar fire, the paper noted that "... the Amador and Kansas City companies used electric speeders (on the Amador track) as an avenue for escape... (others)"

Color photograph of old buildings including the combination cook and bunk house on Oregon Creek. Constructed by Big Flat Mining Company prior to 1910 in Superior Ranger District. Lolo National Forest, Montana. Historical; Buildings. WO# R1-

523301.

Buildings constructed prior to 1910 by the Big Flat Mining Company for placer mining operations on Oregon Creek. These buildings were used again when mining operations were reopened in 1930-35 by G. L. Covington. Lolo National Forest, Montana. Historical; Buildings. WO# R1-1096.

Building below on the right was constructed between 1930 and 1935 by G.L. Covington when he operated Big Flat Mining Company. Lumber was cut at sawmill 1/4 mile upstream from the main mining camp. Superior Ranger District. Lolo National Forest, Montana. Historical; Buildings. WO#

Gorge on Oregon Creek below the mining camp on Big Flat, Superior Ranger District, Montana. Flume along the right bank was used to detour the creek from its channel while the channel was placer mined to bedrock. Lolo National Forest, Montana. National Forest Influences; Historical; Mining. WO# 523310. Library Note: The Big Flat Mining Company had mining operations on Oregon Creek in Mineral County, Montana from from 1903-1923.

Tailing piles left over from early 1900s and 1930-1935 mining when the channel was dredged in search of placer gold. Oregon Creek above Barber Gulch. Lolo National Forest, Montana. National Forest Influences; Mining. WO# 523307. Library Note: The Big Flat Mining Company had mining operations on Oregon Creek in Mineral County, Montana from from 1903-1923.

Cedar Creek Mining District

Notes:

Barite chunks are scattered across the across Oregon Creek adjacent to mouth of Barber Gulch, with a seam visible. Dowsing readings are intriguing. 

• Barite is a mineral composed of barium sulfate (BaSO4). It receives its name from the Greek word "barys" which means "heavy." This name is in response to barite's high specific gravity of 4.5, which is exceptional for a nonmetallic mineral.

The goal of the exploration planned in the Big Flat is to discover and develop a productive and profitable mine. In addition to determining the quantity, location, and value of pay gravels in the placer deposit. Initial exploration will provide valuable information regarding surface drainage patterns, stream flows, and bedrock depth.

• Stream banks are firm and stable, composed of:
• Sand - less than 1⁄4 inch Gravel - 1/4 inch to 3 inches
• Small cobbles - 3 inches to 6 inches
• Large Cobbles - 6 inches to 12 inches
• Rocks - 12 inches to 24 inches
• Boulders - greater than 24 inches Bank heights vary from 2-to-12 feet or more.

Bank vegetation includes native grasses, wildflowers, native brush, shrubs, and trees. Many of the northward-facing slopes have a thick stand of pines, firs, and other conifers, whereas the southward-facing slopes are commonly grass and brush covered and more sparsely timbered. Timber includes litter and understory with brush from two to five feet. The area contains subalpine fir and mixed conifer with significant standing dead and downed trees. depths and types of soils.

Historical Notes:

Childress notes, LNFHP; Mineral County Press August 27,1914; The Mining Journal October 15, 1933,14; April 15,1935, 21; May 15, 1936, 23; May 15,1937, 26.

 

A Prospector's Paradise, the claim is suited for most types of gold mining activities from panning, sluicing, and high-banking to metal detecting, and dredging. For those miners seeking to run large volumes of yardage, there are several stream adjacent meadows condusive to the operation of heavy equipment. 

 

Mineral County is located in the vast "big sky country" of Montana. The crest of the Bitterroot Mountains divides Montana from Idaho and serves as the county’s western boundary. The topography varies from remote, high alpine lakes to whitewater streams and from heavily forested ridges to smooth rolling meadows. 

Oregon Creek Research Notes

A connected-bucket dredge was reported to have operated in the early 1900's. Historical records and physical evidence of placer, shaft, drift and limite lode mining mark the immediate area of the Oregon Gulch Project. The gold extracted was transported from Superior, a station on the Northern Pacific and the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroads (Rowe 1911; Sahinen 1935)

Historical Evidence Of Placer Activity – Barber Gulch Area (Barber Gulch and Southern Cross Claims)

There is no way to find out how many miners actually worked along the creek as all buildings burned in the fires and we have only these snippets from old publications to look to for information. Little physical evidence remains indicating there were ever this many men in camp. There is, however evidence of parts and pieces of old mining equipment, etc. but one has to assume that anything that did not burn was salvaged years ago.

References to the Kansas City Commercial Company are sparse throughout historical records. This mining company operated in the Big Flat. The notes found, indicate the Kansas City Commercial Company was actively mining the Big Flat until their dredge operations were consumed by the 1910 firestorm. No references can be found of their operations after that date.

The fire came over the mountains from Idaho and into Cedar Creek basin, the paper reported. It continued: "The fire is coming down Cedar gulch and is reinforced by a huge blaze from Oregon gulch. "The Cedar... fire has already destroyed the Amador mining property and the Kansas City Commercial company's dredging plant with the exception of the dredge itself. Two charred bodies were found on the summit by fire fighters returning to Iron Mountain from Oregon gulch. "If a heavy wind should arise in the direction of Iron Mountain, the fire from Cedar... may become... bad... It has reduced the Amador mine to a smoldering heap and consumed... the Big Flat Mining company's plant in Oregon gulch..."

W.S. Clifford and Joe Shinnick had passed through the firey Cedar area and shared their experiences with the newspaper: "They were members of a pack outfit which was composed of eight men and 27 horses. They went through Oregon gulch on their way into Idaho and at the summit met a courier who warned them back.

"The fires came quickly. Before the party could get out, the horses had been lost in the fire and the two boys cut off from their comrades. They don't know what became of the six men who were with them. Clifford and Shinnick got out through Oregon gulch into Cedar. There they stayed at the Kansas City Commercial company plant until they were routed out to help fight fire there.

"When the fire had passed, they came down the creek to Iron Mountain..."

In another article about the Cedar fire, the paper noted that "... the Amador and Kansas City companies used electric speeders (on the Amador track) as an avenue for escape... (others)

Big Flat Mining Company

Around the turn of the century, the Big Flat Mining Company began hydraulic mining of the Big Flat area of Oregon Creek. Because no roads led into Big Flat, the company built a mining camp consisting of a bunkhouse, cookhouse, and office building to house its personnel. The Big Flat Mining Company remained active through August 1910, when smoke from the great 1910 forest fires forced a temporary shutdown.

Little work was done at Big Flat over the next three years, but in August 1914 the placer was reopened for an unknown period of time. When mining again was suspended at Big Flat, the Company reportedly employed A1 Wade (for whom Wade Peak is named) as a watchman at the camp until 1930. That year Montana Dredge & Engineering Company acquired the Big Flat claims.

The firm's president and general manager, Guy L. Covington of Seattle, renovated the old camp and erected several new buildings closer to the creek. He also activated a small sawmill just upstream that may have been part of the earlier Big Flat operation.

The lumber produced was used in construction of a flume and dam in 1931-1932. The flume carried water from Missoula Gulch along the hill to the west of the present-day Big Flat road, supplying water for camp use and for hydraulic giants. The sawmill also furnished lumber for building construction and the repair of a large flume on Oregon Gulch.

In 1935, Covington (who had designed power excavation equipment used by many Northwest mines) installed a two-cubic-yard capacity Covington dry-land dredge at Big Flat and it was in operation by 1936. Covington also built the first road connecting Big Flat to the main Cedar Creek road.

LNFHP; Mineral County Press August 27,1914; The Mining Journal October 15, 1933,14; April 15,1935, 21; May 15,1936, 23; May 15,1937, 26.

Covington Mineral Assay Report from drill testing four holes in the Big Flat.

Note dates: Four tests above were assayed in September 1933 - The four test holes below were drilled in December 1034. We continue to search historical archives for additional information. 

Sometime prior to 1931, Charlie Miller had extended the Cedar Creek road from La Casse's camp as far as Miller Saddle. In 1931, Covington built the road from Miller's Saddle down into the Big Flat camp.

The Barber Gulch claim follows Oregon Creek and includes the mouth of Barber Creek.  

In addition to the exciting outdoor adventure of gold mining, the Bitterroot Mountains of Mineral County provide many opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, camping, and photography. Within Mineral County there are 87 miles of river, 650 miles of streams, and over 50 high mountain lakes. In addition, there are over 400 miles of hiking trails and more than 1,000 miles of off-highway roads. 

160 Acres 

Non-Patented 

 

Access is available from mid-May to mid-October and provides an excellent opportunity for the recreational panner or seasoned miner. The Barber Gulch Placer Claim is part of a claim block slated for commercial gold exploration and production.

 

Gold is present at a grade sufficient to have a strong effect on the economics of an excavation project. The package is available for sale/lease or joint-venture. 

 

Sale Price: $136,000.00

For more information please contact:

Marlene Affeld

[email protected]

509-389-2606

Disclaimer: This locality information is for reference purposes only. Please do not attempt to visit any sites listed without first ensuring that you have the permission of the land and/or mineral rights holders for access and that you are aware of all safety precautions necessary. 

 

Food For Thought -

Unlocking Value in Montana’s Historic Mining Camps

The old adage “the best place to find a new mine is in the shadow of an old mine” is more than just a quaint saying. The phrase, well known to many in the world of resource exploration, is actually based on scientific principles that have led to recent significant discoveries.

Today, hitting pay dirt by using only surface exploration techniques is becoming a much harder and costlier prospect for junior explorers, even those in possession of development-stage projects with advanced exploration potential. Instead, forward-thinking geological teams are setting their sights on historic mining camps in the hopes that where there was once fire, the potential for another spark remains.

Blue Sky Country: Modern exploration techniques unlock potential value

“Exploration for new mineral deposits using surface techniques has resulted in fewer discoveries because most of the easy-to-find, near-surface deposits have been found,” explains Stanley Korzeb, economic geologist for the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (MBMG), and a research professor at Montana Tech. “Future mineral exploration is now focusing on deep deposits that have no surface expression, but are related to ore deposits exploited by past mining efforts. Most historic mines were developed on epithermal vein systems, and geologic studies have shown a relationship between epithermal vein systems and porphyry systems.”

Korzeb says that based on these studies, historic mining districts are being reexamined for deep mineral resources using advanced deep-drilling techniques and new geophysical techniques, such as short-wave infrared spectroscopy, lithogeochemical analysis and isotope geochemistry.

In the state of Montana, where Korzeb’s research is focused, some mining districts have not been studied since the 1930s, while others were last explored more recently in the 1980s.

Through his research work at the MBMG, Korzeb is currently focused on the reexamination of historic mining districts for potential exploration targets. To understand the future exploration potential and genesis of mineral resources in historic mining districts, he is using the latest methods for fluid inclusion, lithogeochemistry, isotope geochemistry, age dating and mineralogical techniques, in conjunction with geologic data generated by past mining and exploration efforts.

In essence, Korzeb’s work is proving the scientific basis behind the maxim that “the best place to find a new mine is in the shadow of an old mine.” If you can locate the metal and fluid source that developed the mineral resources exploited by past mining efforts, you may discover a deep porphyry system or another type of deposit with future mining potential."

 

 

 

The Rising Price of Gold: Why Now is the Time to Invest in a Gold Claim

Gold has long been a symbol of wealth and a safe-haven investment, particularly during times of economic uncertainty. Over the past 30 years, the price of gold has seen a significant increase, making it an attractive option for investors seeking stability and growth. Here’s a closer look at the trends in gold prices and why investing in a gold claim could be a smart move.

Historical Gold Price Trends

• 1990: Gold was priced at approximately $400 per ounce.
• 2000: Gold saw modest growth, reaching around $300 per ounce.
• 2010: The price of gold surged to over $1,200 per ounce, driven by the financial crisis and economic uncertainty.
• 2020: Gold reached new highs, surpassing $2,000 per ounce amid the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic disruptions.
• 2024: Gold is currently priced at around $2,680 per ounce, maintaining its value as a reliable investment.

Reasons for the Increase in Gold Prices

Economic Uncertainty: Gold is often seen as a safe haven during economic downturns, inflation, and geopolitical instability. Investors flock to gold to protect their wealth from market volatility.

• Inflation Hedge: As fiat currencies lose value due to inflation, gold retains its purchasing power. This makes it an effective hedge against rising prices.
• Supply and Demand: Limited supply and increasing demand from investors, central banks, and industries contribute to the rising price of gold.
• Currency Depreciation: When currencies depreciate, gold becomes relatively more valuable, driving up its price.
• Global Events: Political instability, natural disasters, and pandemics can disrupt markets, leading investors to seek the stability of gold.

Why Invest in a Gold Claim?

Direct Access to Gold: Owning a gold claim gives you direct access to gold deposits. Unlike buying gold bullion or coins, mining a gold claim can yield a continuous supply of gold.

2. Potential for High Returns: Gold claims, especially in historically productive areas, offer significant potential for high returns. The value of the gold extracted can far exceed the initial investment.

3. Tangible Asset: A gold claim is a tangible asset that you can hold, develop, and sell. It provides a sense of security compared to other investments that might be more volatile.

4. Diversification: Investing in a gold claim diversifies your portfolio, reducing risk by not relying solely on traditional stocks and bonds.

5. Tax Benefits: In some regions, mining operations can offer tax advantages, including deductions for exploration and development expenses.

6. Legacy Investment: Gold claims can be passed down to future generations, providing long-term wealth and security for your family.

Oregon Gulch Project: An Investment Opportunity

The Oregon Gulch Project, located in Mineral County, Montana, offers a unique opportunity to invest in gold claims in one of the most historically productive gold districts in the state. The project includes several unpatented mining claims covering approximately 1,200 acres. These claims have a history of high gold purity and substantial production, making them an attractive investment for both novice and experienced miners.

These claims are known for their rich gold deposits, high purity levels, and excellent mining potential. Historical data from the area indicate that gold from this district was notably fine, with some samples being as high as 960 to 970 fine (22 Karat).

Leasing and Financing Options

Oregon Gulch Gold offers attractive leasing and financing options to make it easier for you to start mining:

• Flexible Leasing Terms: Whether you’re looking for short-term or long-term leases, we have options to suit your needs.
• Owner Financing Available: Take advantage of our no-interest financing plan. With just 10% down, you can finance the balance over 10 years. No credit check, no banks involved.
• Non-Patented Claims: Serious inquiries only. Contact us for more details on leasing opportunities.

Own a Piece of Montana

Imagine owning a piece of Montana’s majestic landscape, where you can mine for gold under the big sky, surrounded by cool mountain breezes and abundant wildlife. These claims offer he chance to experience the tranquility and beauty of Montana while pursuing your mining ambitions.

• Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Activities: The area is surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, dense forests, and diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species.
• Fishing: Oregon Creek and nearby rivers are teeming with trout and other fish, making it a prime location for anglers.
• Camping and Hunting: The expansive wilderness provides excellent camping spots and hunting grounds, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Rockhounding: The region is rich in minerals and gemstones, making it a perfect destination for rockhounding and geological exploration.

Ideal for Joint Ventures

Whether you’re looking to lease or enter a joint venture, the Big Flat Mining Claims offer flexible opportunities to suit your needs. With multiple claims available, you can find the perfect spot to start or expand your mining operations.

Contact Us

Ready to explore the opportunities at Big Flat? Contact us at [email protected] for more information on leasing or joint venture options. Don’t miss your chance to strike it rich in one of Montana’s most productive gold mining districts.

Call Marlene Affeld

      [email protected] - 509-389-2606

Embark on your mining adventure at Big Flat and be part of a legacy that dates back over a century. The gold is waiting—are you ready to find it?

Visuals and Maps

For more information, photos, and maps of the Big Flat Mining Claims, visit Wildlil.com. The site offers a comprehensive collection of historical data, maps, and current images showcasing the beauty and potential of the area.

A Dredger's Dream - Missoula Gulch Gold Placer Mining Claim

Gold prospecting is a fun family activity and with the price of gold on the rise, it can also be financially rewarding. 

Go for it. Take a little time for yourself. Enjoy the great outdoors. Get some peace of mind in the mountains. Go prospecting, fish, camp, hunt, hike, and explore. Meet friends. Find gold on your new mining claim.

160 Acres - Non-patented - The claim follows the stream bed which includes over a mile of deep pools and cascading waterfalls.

Missoula Gulch is an impressive drainage, resplendent with numerous waterfalls, deep pools and massive bedrock outcrops. Missoula Gulch is a year-around tributary of Oregon Creek. 

Overview of Missoula Lake, Mineral County, MT

Missoula Gulch Placer Mining Claim

Legal Description:

Missoula Gulch Placer Mining Claim 

Legacy Serial No. MTMMC 2367

MLRS Serial No. MT101643676 

Southwest ¼ of Section 2 and the NW ¼ of Section 11, T15N, R28W

Mineral County, Montana

160 Acres

Sale Price: $109,500.00

The Missoula Gulch Placer Claim is part of a group of claims composed of approximately 1200 acres slated for commercial gold exploration and production. Gold is present at a grade sufficient to have a strong effect on the economics of an excavation project. The package is available for sale/lease or joint-venture. 

For more information, please contact:

Marlene Affeld

509-389-2606

[email protected]

Rainbow's End Gold Placer Mining Claim: For Sale/Lease/Joint Venture

Rainbow’s End Placer Mining Claim

BLM No. MTMMC 236830

./?>?

160 Acres

E ½ of s        /. ≥/   W ½ of Section 13, T15N, R28W, Mineral County, Montana

Sale Price: $77,300.00  - Owner Financing Available

For more information, please contact:

Marlene Affeld

509-389-2606

[email protected]

 

 

 

Dowsing For Gold

 

Are you fascinated by the art of dowings and wonder if this is a skill that one can develop or is it a gift only some obtain?

 

Scientific evidence shows that dowsing is no more effective than random chance. It is therefore regarded as a pseudoscience. 

 

No matter! Dowsing works!

 

 

This is a republish of an article from 4 years ago - I am now a confirmed believer in the art of dowsing - I trust my instincts - the rods do not lie. If you have not tried dowsing yourself, check it out. It is an awesome feeling when the rods dance, totally on their own. I spent an enjoyable and informative time at the claims last summer. Jimmy B, a mining friend from Idaho came over and dowsed a few spots. Jimmy B has years of experience and teaches classes on prospecting techniques.  

 

Jimmy says there is nothing magic in the rods he uses. He has built several sets of both brass and copper rod, in various thicknesses and lengths. He is still experimenting. He said he has not tried willow or cherry branches as yet. I was amazed; for Jimmy, the rods dance. He kindly gave me a lot of helpful advice and very useful information on the way to hold the rods and how they responded. He said to hold waist level or higher (shoulder level is best, but tiring) when looking for gold; when searching for water the rods should be held lower, closer to knee level. 

 

I tried the rods for myself. Dowsing works! We then tested Jimmy B.'s abilities by hiding a vial of gold on the forest floor. His rods led him right to the spot! 

 

He then became a bit more serious and focused as he walked a grid on the Southern Cross claim. I am excited; he had two very strong readings. 

 

The ancient art of dowsing is quite remarkable.  It is accomplished through an intuitive search process leading the dowser to find water or precious minerals. In our case, we were looking for gold. 

 

Throughout history, there have also been numerous documented occasions where dowsers have located water, minerals, missing objects or missing persons. Dowsing has been referenced in history since 1518. Martin Luther mentions its use throughout Europe and condemned the practice.

 

Often a dowsing rod or a bent metal wand is used to facilitate the discovery process. 

 

During the Victorian era dowsers and their abilities were sometimes considered to be practitioners of witchcraft or magic, the wand or rod they used was called a “divining rod " or “witching wand.”  The wand was crafted from the wood of witch hazel, willow or apple trees. Modern-day wands are often formed from metal. Brass, copper or stainless steel rods, or in some cases, wire coat hangers have been used.

 

The process is quite simple. When the dowser walks with the device in his or her hands, they feel a vibrating tingle, tug, pull or other sensation when the item they are seeking is nearby. In a search for gold, once the dowser has a response from the rods, he will approach the location from different angles to isolate the area from which he is receiving a "signal". I found this similar to the approach that is used in metal detecting. 

 

A crystal pendant or a weighted pendulum can also be employed in a somewhat different manner such as positioning it over a map, to bring about the same result of the discovery. I have some old treasure maps I would like an accomplished dowser to review.

 

I have had the privilege of meeting several dowsers. Some, like Jimmy, were very accurate. Over the years I have developed faith and a belief in dowsing. Prospecting for gold is hard work! I will take all the help I can get.

 

Have you tried dowsing for gold? Will you share your secrets? Please post comments and your experiences.