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open holes and trash laying around. This has resulted in many areas being closed to metal detecting which hurts all of us. The
Federation of Metal Detector and Archaeological Clubs Inc. or FMDAC for short was organized in 1984 by hobbyists and
manufacturers as a legislative and educational organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and protection for the hobby of
recreational metal detecting and prospecting. The following Code of Ethics is one that was developed and endorsed by the FMDAC
and should be part of how you approach the hobby of treasure hunting.
I will always check Federal, State, County and local laws before searching. It is my responsibility to "know the law".
I will respect private property and will not enter private property without the owner’s permission. Where possible, such
permission will be in writing.
I will take care to refill all holes and try not to leave any damage.
I will remove and dispose of any and all trash and litter that I find.
I will appreciate and protect our inheritance of natural resources, wildlife and private property.
I will as an ambassador for the hobby, use thoughtfulness, consideration and courtesy at all times.
I will work to help bring unity to our hobby by working with any organization of any geographic area that may have problems
that will limit their ability to peacefully pursue the hobby.
I will leave gates as found.
I will build fires in designated or safe places only.
I will report to the proper authorities any individuals who enter and or remove artifacts from federal parks, state / local
preserves or designated historical sites.