Code of Ethics

All metal detectorists should conduct themselves in a professional manner while out detecting. The positive impression they leave on people they encounter while out detecting is very important to the wellness of the hobby. It only takes a few bad apples doing the wrong thing to give this great hobby a black eye which might result in areas that are currently available for detecting, to be made off limits in the future. To ensure that individuals participating in this hobby all perform in a similar manner, a “Detectorist’s Code of Ethics” has been developed for each of them to follow. Midwest Coinshooters and Historical Club strongly encourages all its members to follow this code as well as all others that enjoy metal detecting whether they belong to a club not. The code is as follows:

DETECTORIST’S “CODE OF ETHICS”

I will act in a professional and respectful manner at all times.

I will respect private property and always ask permission from the owner before entering any lands.

I will do everything within my power to promote, protect, and restore the right and freedom of everyone to enjoy metal detecting as a recreation.

I will myself, practice and teach other detectorists proper nondamaging target recovery and retrieval techniques.

I will report to the proper authorities any site found by accident that has the appearance of being archaeologically significant.

I will report any detectorist who deliberately does not practice responsible recovery and retrieval techniques on either public or private property.

I will leave a search location in better condition by picking up all trash encountered, and disposing of it properly.

I will offer my services freely to anyone publicly in need of help locating lost jewelry, family mementos, or other lost items and only accept charity if the individual or party of the lost item insists.

I will make an honest attempt to locate the owner of any item I find which may have monetary or sentimental value, and return that item to them.

I will be considerate of fellow detectorists and not invade private huntsites without their knowledge and consent.

I will use thoughtfulness, consideration, and courtesy at all times.

I will do nothing to harm, destroy, or tamper with any property sign, structural facilities, equipment, abandoned structure, ghost town remains, natural resource, or form of wildlife.

I will not litter.

I will leave gates as found.

I will not contaminate wells, creeks, or any other water supplies.

I will fill all excavations so as not to pose a danger to people or livestock.

I will build fires in designated and/or safe places only.

I will appreciate and protect our heritage of natural resources, wildlife, and private property.