C. Oregon rockhounding map updated

An updated version of the Central Oregon Rockhounding Map is now available through a joint effort from the Ochoco National Forest, the Prineville District Bureau of Land Management, and the Prineville-Crook County Chamber of Commerce.

This collaboration has been on-going since the original map was published in 1964. The new and improved map is printed on durable water-proof plastic, and expands on the previous 2004 edition to include additional tips and geological information.

The map highlights eleven designated public recreational collection areas, offering opportunities to discover petrified wood and limb casts (stones molded in the shapes and textures of wood); obsidian (volcanic glass); and various types of semi-precious gemstones and minerals including thunder eggs, jasper, and agate.

Thunder eggs are one of the most unique and highly sought-after stones in Oregon, which earned them the status of the official state rock in 1965. Though inconspicuous and drab on the outside, these round rocks often reveal colorful designs and crystals within.

Central Oregon contains a wide variety of semi-precious gemstones not encountered many places. Rockhounding is a fun activity for people of all ages and encourages enthusiasts to learn about Oregon’s geologic past while exploring the state’s diverse forest and high desert environments.

Rockhounding for personal, non-commercial use is free on Central Oregon USFS and BLM lands as long as certain stipulations are followed. You can find the list of stipulations, as well as safety information and the Rockhound Code of Ethics on the Central Oregon Rockhounding Map.

The Central Oregon Rockhounding Map can be purchased for $4.00 (plus shipping and handling) online at: http://www.nationalforestmapstore.com/product-p/or-75.htm, or in person at any of the following locations:

Ochoco National Forest Supervisor’s Office

3160 N.E. Third Street

Prineville, Oregon 97754

(541) 416-6500

Bureau of Land Management Prineville District Office

3050 N.E. Third Street

Prineville, Oregon 97754

(541) 416-6700

Prineville-Crook County Visitor Center

185 N.E. 10 th Street

Prineville, Oregon 97754

(541) 447-6304

A digital version of the map can be purchased online for $3.99 through the Avenza map store and downloaded directly to one’s mobile device or computer at https://www.avenzamaps.com/maps/479079/central-oregon-rockhounding-map/

For more information, please contact one of your local map retailers.