Sterling HIll Mining Museum Collecting Trip

Date: 7/30/2017 12:00 AM

Location: Passaic Pit and saddle areas, Sterling HIll Mining Museum, ,

Join us for a day of collecting at the Passaic Pit and saddle areas. The Franklin – Ogdensburg NJ area is the “Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World.” Geared towards newcomers to collecting, we plan to demonstrate proper collecting requirements in operating quarries for future club trips. Plus it is an opportunity for you to collect in a world-wide classic location with some more knowledgeable collectors. The pit areas at Sterling Hill are open to anyone 13+ years old. Ages 7+ can collect on the mine dump behind the museum. You WILL find fluorescent minerals. And you will be with a group that has some more experienced collectors. (And repeat visitors are welcome also – just more experiences we can share.) The fee to collect at Sterling is $5. Plus $1.50 for every pound of rock you collect (to fund the museum). There is also a tour (with an amazing ultraviolet display) of the old zinc mine shafts that you sign up for. For those interested, we could also take a short trip (5 miles) to view the collecting area at the Franklin Mineral Museum’s Buckwheat dump. For more info or to sign up, contact Groundhog Dave Shapiro at FOMCNJ@gmail.com . This trip will be led by Mike Dunton. This is the official event listing from the Sterling Hill Mine Website: July 30 (Sunday) Mineral Collecting at Sterling Hill (daytime only) Collecting is allowed on the Mine Run dump, in the Passaic pit, and “saddle” areas. Bring sturdy footwear, a strong hammer (carpenter’s claw hammers not allowed), and eye protection. A dark room with a shortwave ultraviolet light is provided on-site for inspection of fluorescent minerals. Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Fee: $5 admission plus $1.50 for each pound of material taken. Fee does not include mine tour. Age requirement: Must be seven years and up to collect on the Mine Run dump. Thirteen years and up to collect elsewhere. ** If you own hardhats, bring them. They ARE required for collecting beyond the Mine Run dump. They’re also available for rental at the Gift Shop.